Natural History Museum - Documenting the Bornean orangutan

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This image of a Bornean orangutan, with the rainforest of the Gunung Palung National Park in the background, was one that photographer Tim Laman had long visualised. He spent three days rope-climbing the 30-metre tree to set camera traps he could trigger remotely. Knowing that the young male would return in search of food, he waited for the perfect moment to take the photo. Tim's Grand Title winning image from the 52nd Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition was part of a photojournalism story documenting the plight of the Bornean orangutan. A passionate storyteller, Tim hopes his images will reveal glimpses of the lives and culture of truly wild orangutans, while also reporting on the unfolding tragedy of their critically endangered status. Tim says, 'Protecting their remaining habitat is critical for orangutans to survive. If we want to preserve a great ape that retains both its vast, culturally transmitted knowledge of how to survive in the rainforest and the full richness of wild orangutan behaviour, then we need to protect orangutans in the wild now.'

Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition - final weeks Don't miss the chance to see the 100 award-winning images from the current Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, including Tim Laman's images of the Bornean orangutan. Closes 10 September Win a trip to Kenya and Uganda We've teamed up with Abercrombie & Kent and Sanctuary Retreats to offer you the chance to win an unforgettable seven-day safari for two. 50% off selected WPY52 souvenirs Get your hands some of this year’s bestselling gifts inspired by the incredible images from Wildlife Photographer of the Year.  See the exhibition for free See Wildlife Photographer of the Year as many times as you like for free as a Museum Member.