Scientists working in Indonesia have observed an orangutan intentionally treating a wound on their face with a medicinal plant, the first time this behavior has been documented.
After an orangutan hurt his face, scientists observed him chewing a plant known to relieve pain and applying a paste made from the leaves to the injury.
Study lead author Isabelle Laumer said they are "very excited" by the observations that were recorded in June 2022 in the Suaq Balimbing research area in Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia.
"To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of active wound treatment with a plant species with medical properties by a wild animal”: said a biologist. | Trending