Theoretically, would orangutans make good pets or companions?

Obviously, I would never have one as a pet, but I know that primates, especially chimpanzees, can be very dangerous. If you were able to raise an orangutan from birth and train it properly, could they make decent companions? I’ve never witnessed one acting aggressively, and when they do show aggression towards other orangutans, they seem somewhat weak. Orangutans appear to be very gentle, and I feel like we could be best friends.

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That’s an interesting thought! While orangutans do have a reputation for being gentle and intelligent, they are still wild animals with specific needs. Raising one from birth would be a huge commitment, and they can still have unpredictable behaviors as they mature.

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Exactly! Even with training, they could still display instincts that make them challenging to manage. Plus, orangutans have complex social and environmental needs that are difficult to replicate in a home setting. They thrive in their natural habitats.

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I get what you’re saying, though! They are incredibly fascinating creatures. I’ve read that they can form strong bonds with humans, but those relationships take a lot of time and effort to build. It’s not the same as having a dog or cat!

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Right! They’re very smart and can learn a lot, but it’s essential to remember that they are not domesticated animals. There’s a reason they’re not commonly kept as pets, even in the best scenarios. They need space to roam and explore, just like they would in the wild.

I think it’s also important to consider their long lifespan. An orangutan can live up to 40 years or more in captivity! That’s a long-term commitment that not many people can manage. It’s great to appreciate them from a distance, though.