India, Dec. 12 -- Scientists fear Cyclone Senyar may have killed a significant number of Tapanuli orangutans.

The species, formally identified in 2017, has fewer than 800 individuals left in the wild.

Flooding and landslides devastated key habitat in Sumatra's Batang Toru region.

Experts warn that even small losses could push the species towards extinction.

Satellite imagery shows widespread destruction across the orangutan's strongest remaining habitat.

Scientists fear that Cyclone Senyar, which made landfall on November 25, may have swept away a significant number of Tapanuli orangutans, after a carcass of the critically endangered great ape was found following severe flooding.

The Tapanuli orangutan was formally recognised as a d...