TED-Ed: How smart are orangutans? - Lu Gao

The video explores the intelligence and adaptability of orangutans, highlighting the story of Fu Manchu, an orangutan known for his lock-picking skills. It delves into the family structure and skill development of orangutans, emphasizing their social and survival skills. The video also presents experiments that demonstrate their cognitive abilities. Finally, it addresses the conservation challenges they face due to deforestation and poaching, and the efforts to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned orangutans.

What unique skill did Fu Manchu, the orangutan, demonstrate at the Omaha Zoo?

• Painting with brushes

• Picking locks with a hidden wire

• Communicating with sign language

• Playing musical instruments

How do young orangutans learn essential survival skills?

• From human trainers

• By observing and mimicking their mothers

• Through trial and error

• By attending special schools

What tool do orangutans use to extract fruit soup in experiments?

• A stick

• A spoon

• A leaf

• A straw

What is a major threat to the orangutan population in the wild?

• Lack of food resources

• Deforestation for palm oil and logging

• Natural predators

• Climate change

What is the purpose of forest schools for orphaned orangutans?

• To train them for human interaction

• To help them recover and learn life skills

• To teach them to perform tricks

• To prepare them for zoo life