After Throwing Treats To Orangutan, Zoo Visitor Receives Sign Of Thanks He Won't Ever Forget

Oct 02, 2020

We often underestimate intelligence when it comes to animals. We believe that we are absolutely the smartest creatures in the world, and we are shocked when we see an animal show off how amazing they really can be.

This was the case for a gentleman named Vitaly R., who was shocked at the funny reaction he received from an adorable orangutan at Bali Zoo in Indonesia.

The zoo is home to many wonderful animals. Visitors will find saltwater crocodiles and African lions when they visit, among other animals they rarely get to see. However, many visitors love to come and see the hilarious antics of the resident orangutans. Vitaly decided that he was going to check them out when he visited. He was prepared with a treat, as well.

More than 60 million people have viewed the video of Vitaly throwing a huge orangutan a delicious treat over the barrier. The young man looks at the camera. The orangutan, who is very close to him, stretches out his hand for the treat. After the orangutan catches and eats the treat, he looks around his enclosure.

Satisfied that no one is watching, he reaches behind his back and grabs a banana. Then, he throws the banana at Vitaly. It looks like the animal plans to fire the banana like a missile, but as he gently tosses it, you can tell his real intentions. Everyone around starts to smile when they realize he is offering a “trade” to Vitaly. Either that, or he is enjoying an impromptu game of catch! No matter the reason, it was a funny interaction that we are glad was caught on video.

Many people know that humans are very closely related to primates. Our DNA is 97 percent identical to orangutans. Orangutans are believed to be as smart as a 3 or 4-year-old child. They can also catch certain diseases that humans can, such as hepatitis B and tuberculosis.

The executive director of an organization known as Orangutan Land Trust believes that they are the most intelligent of all great apes. Michelle Desilets, the director, explained, "They say that if you give a chimpanzee a screwdriver, he’ll break it; if you give a gorilla a screwdriver, he’ll toss it over his shoulder; but if you give an orangutan a screwdriver, he’ll open up his cage and walk away."

With more than 60 million views, Vitaly’s adorable interaction is definitely a viral video we all love. So many comments cheered on the cute orangutan and commented on his social skills.

You can watch the charming video below. Pay attention as the orangutan keeps looking around to see if anyone is watching!

What did you think of this delightful video? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and please pass this on to fellow animal lovers!