Orangutan – P. Tapanuliensis
- Discovered: 2017
Obviously, we have known of the existence of orangutans for centuries. However, a new animal species within this family was discovered in 2017 known as the P. tapanuliensis. With so many Sumatran species dying off over the years, it was unknown if rumors of a newer orangutan species could occur. After careful genetic tests, field observations, and skeleton comparisons, the Pongo Tapanuliensis was found to indeed be another species entirely. Noted by its smaller head and flatter face compared to other orangutans from Sumatra and Borneo. While they might live in Sumatra, scientists feel they actually favor the Borneo Orangutans more.