Orangutan
1.5× youTheir arm span can reach 7 feet from fingertip to fingertip — wider than a 10-year-old is tall — even though standing up they are shorter than a grown-up.
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas (CC BY-SA 3.0)
3 featured species · 2 habitat zones
Animals of Indonesia
Indonesia is full of amazing animals living in different places like jungles, oceans, and mountains. Some animals, like the Komodo dragon and the Sumatran orangutan, are so special because they can only be found in Indonesia. The country’s rich forests and waters are perfect homes for creatures big and small, showing just how wonderful nature is in this part of the world.
Featured Species
Test Your Knowledge
Habitat Zones
Rainforest
Indonesia's rainforests are lush and green, with tall trees and lots of rain. They are full of different plants and animals and are like a giant outdoor classroom.
Sumatran Tiger, Orangutan, Hornbill, Asian Elephant
Coastal Waters
The coastal waters around Indonesia are warm and filled with colorful coral reefs. This zone is bustling with sea life and is great for exploring underwater.
Clownfish, Dugong, Sea Turtle, Manta Ray
How Big Are They?
Each animal shown next to a 10-year-old (🧒) at true scale.
Komodo Dragon
2.1× youUp to 10 feet long, which is about twice the length of a 10-year-old.
Sumatran Tiger
1.7× youAbout 8 feet long, which is a head taller than a 10-year-old is tall.
Where to Spot Them
Orangutan
Look in: Rainforests of northern Sumatra
Watch for: Orangutans are so clever they build a brand-new sleeping nest from bent branches high in the trees every single night.
Komodo Dragon
Look in: Komodo Island and surrounding islands
Watch for: Komodo dragons use their forked tongues to smell the air.
Sumatran Tiger
Look in: Forests of Sumatra
Watch for: Sumatran tigers are excellent swimmers.
Cultural Connection
Indonesia is rich in biodiversity, with many species unique to the islands. This diversity is also reflected in the culture, with each region celebrating its unique wildlife.
Vocabulary
Did you know that the Komodo dragon shares its habitat with animals found nowhere else on earth, just like Australia's kangaroo?
