The Orangutan Foundation trustees have been deeply saddened by the death of fellow trustee, Sir Terry Pratchett. Sir Terry Pratchett was a loyal trustee of the Orangutan Foundation for 23 years, and a staunch advocate for the plight of the endangered orangutan and its vanishing habitat.

In tribute to his long-standing commitment, the Orangutan Foundation aspires to launch the 'Sir Terry Pratchett "Oook" Award for the Conservation of Orangutans and their Habitat'. Sir Terry's love for orangutans was apparent from his famous characterisation of the orangutan 'Librarian' - vocalised only by 'oook' - which was featured throughout his Discworld book series. This award created in his name will therefore be aimed toward aspiring researchers in the field of orangutan conservation.

Through this award scheme, research students of any nationality will be able to apply for the grant through submitting a research proposal to our board of trustees. Our aim is to give an annual award of £5,000 to a chosen research student, journalist or film-maker. Since the Foundation is approaching its 25th year, we are hoping to pledge for 25 more years of vital conservation work. 

This award can only be launched with the help of the general public. For this we are hoping to get the support of not only Foundation members, but also Sir Terry's fans. If our fundraising is successful, we can contribute toward important field research, and thus help to make great steps in the world of conservation, zoology and the environmental sciences. 

The Foundation wishes to maintain Sir Terry's presence in the conservation community and to keep his legacy with the Foundation alive. The launch of this award has graciously been endorsed by Sir Terry's family, and we do hope that both Foundation supporters and his dedicated fans will help to make this award a reality.

Watch Sir Terry Pratchett's collaboration with the Orangutan Foundation: 'Facing Extinction' (2013) here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOhduvF1UGA