Saving the Rainforest with Leif Cocks: The Deep Wisdom of Orangutan Conservation

In this special Vet Vibes episode, we journey to Indonesia to explore the world of great apes—and the passionate humans working to protect them. Leif Cocks, founder of The Orangutan Project, joins me to discuss a lifetime dedicated to saving orangutans and the rich biodiversity of the Indonesian rainforest.

Leif shares his deep-rooted connection with orangutans, explaining how they act as umbrella species whose protection ensures the survival of entire ecosystems. From habitat loss to palm oil politics, this conversation moves beyond the science into the spiritual and philosophical core of meaningful conservation.

If you wish to donate or get more information about Leif's charity:
https://www.theorangutanproject.org

Timestamps:

00:00 — Introduction

03:45 — Orangutans as umbrella species

06:20 — Habitat loss and other threats

08:30 — What makes conservation projects sustainable

13:00 — The importance of growth at an individual and organisational level

14:58 — Satellite operations or the holistic mission of the Orangutan Project

20:00 — Living a life of meaning and purpose

24:30 — How to choose an ethical wildlife tour

28:50 — Orangutan culture and the species’ survival

33:50 — Sustainable palm oil vs the real challenges of conservation

41:30 — The Orangutan Project

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==