Five baby orangutans rescued in Odisha get special care at Nandankanan Zoo

Five baby orangutans, rescued from a forest in Odisha's Balasore district, are now receiving round-the-clock care at the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar. The animals, which are not native to the state, were brought to the zoo on Tuesday evening, sparking concerns of a possible global smuggling operation.

The zoo's deputy director, Pradeep Mirase, said the group comprises three males and two females. They have undergone initial health check-ups and have been placed in a temperature-controlled quarantine facility. A dedicated team of three animal keepers and veterinary specialists has been assigned, with CCTV monitoring in place. One of the primates, which had a fever, has been given medication and is reported to be stable.

A special diet chart, prepared in consultation with Mysore Zoo, is being followed. The animals are fed every two hours, with the two youngest receiving mashed potatoes and apples, while the others are given bananas and apples along with milk. To keep the primates engaged, the facility has been equipped with toys and slings. Officials note that the orangutans, being social animals, appear to be comfortable in the group setting.

Authorities are working with the Wildlife Institute of India to ensure the animals' well-being. As per protocol, they will remain in quarantine for about 30 days for health monitoring and disease assessment. The zoo's deputy director suspects the animals may be from Borneo, but added that further analysis is needed to determine their exact species and origin.

Meanwhile, the Special Task Force of the Odisha police is investigating whether an organised trafficking racket is involved. Officials are revisiting old orangutan smuggling cases and conducting local inquiries to gather more data.