iPads and apes raising funds against extinction

Orangutans at the Milwaukee County Zoo have been given iPads to use in an attempt to raise funds in order to help them away from extinction. Conservationist Richard Zimmerman heads up the project by the Orangutan Outreach charity. The apes began using the iPads since May, using apps such as Doodle Buddy and watching nature shows hosted by David Attenborough.

Access is limited to two short periods a week, and have shown a basic, child-like curiosity. "Orangutans love looking at each other," said Zimmerman.

Zookeepers want to offer reinforced iPads so the apes can use them without human supervision. Currently, the humans have to hold the devices while apes use them through bars so that they're not broken.

The next step is to allow access to the web using Wi-Fi, and guide the apes in navigating the web. This could allow them to view other apes in other zoos or their own enclosures, and they were found to enjoy looking at themselves. Other zoos are also keen to get in on the program, though they haven't been able to get enough iPads. Once the iPad 3 comes out, the original device should become much more affordable and the zoos will pick these up, Zimmerman said.

Thus far, no research is being done with how the apes are using the iPads, though this is coming, Zimmerman believed. [via BBC]

By Electronista Staff