The coronavirus could pose a lethal threat to orangutans, making the work to protect their dwindling numbers even more critical.

Sepilok has closed its doors to visitors, which has led to a lose of vital income. Our Malaysian staff are still working tirelessly to care for the vulnerable and critically endangered orangutans in their care.

Susan Sheward MBE, founder and chairwoman of Orangutan Appeal UK said: "This disease could be fatal for the already critically endangered orangutan, it is a risk that we cannot afford take. OAUK will do everything it can to make sure that the orangutans at Sepilok stay healthy and safe. "

What is happening in the world is devastating. When this is over what will be left? We cannot control the virus but we can make a difference to the lives of these animals. They are relying on us to save them.

Habitats are being destroyed, or devastated by fire, but we CAN make a difference. The Wildlife Rescue Unit (supported by Orangutan Appeal UK) are out on the front line every day devoting their time to rescuing wildlife. A scared female orangutan was found clinging to a lone tree in a stark wasteland of what was once her rainforest home. The Wildlife Rescue Team came to her rescue in her extreme time of need.

Without orangutans, the ecosystem within the rainforest stands little chance of survival. Without a suitable rainforest home, orangutans will become extinct in the wild. Without the orangutan, the lungs of the earth will struggle to breathe.

This campaign will help us to continue our fight to save the orangutans and you can be a part of that.