A cheeky orangutan was caught red-handed scrubbing herself clean with a bar of soap – which she stole from a nearby boat.

Photographer Kevin Su, 31, shot the unusual pictures as the mother ape lathered herself with suds.

(Image: Kevin Su / Barcroft)

Unable to find water to wash the soap from her hair, the orangutan then licked the soapy mix from her arm.

Canadian snapper Kevin, who was travelling through Tajung Putting National Park in Borneo with his girlfriend, said the curious animal was mimicking human behaviour.

He said: “When we were away on a trek, she must have taken it from the back of our boat.

(Image: Kevin Su / Barcroft)

“Many of the orangutans have been treated at the rehabilitation camp in the area, so they are used to humans.

“She had obviously watched us bathing and decided to copy us. Although we can't account for her deciding to eat the soap.”

(Image: Kevin Su / Barcroft)

The orangutan population in Borneo has declined by more than 50% over the past 60 years, due largely to deforestation.

And Kevin says he felt privileged to witness such an intelligent ape relaxing in its natural habitat.

He added: “I felt moved and connected to this beautiful creature who was imitating our behaviour, but also experimenting and enjoying herself.

“She didn’t mind us watching, it was if she wanted to let us know that she was no different then us.

“It was moments like these that inspire me to observe, respect and preserve wildlife.”