It’s the physical traits, rather than the strictly genetic ones, that researchers say link orangutans so closely to humans. One of those traits: “Humans and orangutans actually have a hairline,” in contrast to virtually all primates, Jeffrey Schwartz, co-author of a paper on the connections between us, told National Geographic.” We both have hair that “comes down to the top of the eyes.”
Disclaimer: Orangutans have a very close evolutionary connection to humans. Here’s a clear breakdown: Genetic similarity: Humans share about 97% of our DNA with orangutans, making them one of our closest living relatives (after chimpanzees and bonobos). Evolutionary connection: Orangutans, humans, gorillas, and chimpanzees all belong to the Hominidae family—the “great apes.” Humans and orangutans share a common ancestor that lived roughly 12–16 million years ago. Behavioral similarities: Orangutans are highly intelligent, capable of using tools, solving problems, and even learning aspects of human language when taught in captivity. They have complex social behaviors, though they are more solitary than other great apes.
