Apps for Apes: Smithsonian Orangutans using iPads for Enrichment Orangutan Outreach
go to original February 23, 2013

The Smithsonian's National Zoo is participating in the Apps4Apes program. The Apps4Apes program is an Orangutan Outreach initiative, designed to further enrich the quality of lives for primates in zoos. The animals are allowed to engage with basic apps for added mental stimulation and entertainment. (SmithsonianNZP)

Orangutans are highly intelligent creatures that require mental stimulation to keep from growing bored and depressed. Every orangutan is a unique individual with his or her own particular likes and dislikes, and freedom of choice is critical to their well-being. They like to choose everything from their afternoon snack to their daytime companions and sleeping area.

What they do each day depends on how they feel, and the more choices they have, the better. Just like humans, orangutans like options. The quality of life of orangutans living in zoos and sanctuaries is dependent on the amount and type of enrichment they receive on a daily basis.

With the Apps for Apes project, we propose to introduce Apple iPad technology to orangutans in order to provide them with unlimited enrichment opportunities. The iPad is a perfect device for orangutans, as they have an innate ability to work with touchscreen technology. This has been demonstrated in facilities such as Zoo Atlanta, the Great Ape Trust and the Smithsonian National Zoo.

With proper guidance, orangutans will be able to use their devices just like humans do– to spend their time doing things that they enjoy. They will have access to music, musical instruments, cognitive games, art, painting, drawing, photos and videos. Among other things, they will be able to see photos and videos of other orangutans.

The 3 Goals of Apps for Apes

1. To provide stimulating enrichment & immediate gratification for the orangutans using iPads,
2. To raise awareness among zoo visitors of the critical need to protect orangutans in the wild, and
3. To promote the conservation efforts of Orangutan Outreach

We invite you to add your charity or supporting organizations' news stories and coming events to PVAngels so we can share them with the world. Do it now!