Health Concerns Arise for Baby Orangutans at Nandankanan Zoo: What You Need to Know
Health Alert for Baby Orangutans
Bhubaneswar: A baby orangutan at Nandankanan Zoological Park has developed a fever, raising concerns among officials regarding the health of these animals, which are not indigenous to India. This particular orangutan has been under observation since September 8.
According to official reports, the infant has been experiencing elevated body temperature since Sunday and is currently receiving medication to manage the fever.
Veterinary staff at the zoo are diligently monitoring the animal's health and providing continuous care.
A senior official stated, "The orangutan has had a persistent fever since its arrival. While medication helps reduce the fever temporarily, it tends to return. However, the condition is now stable and is being closely watched."
The remaining four orangutans are reported to be in good health and are responding well to their new environment.
Sources indicate that the quarantine area has become busier with the recent addition of 58 new animals, but specific arrangements have been made for the orangutans.
"We have established separate accommodations for the orangutans," the official confirmed, noting that special mosquito nets have been installed in their climate-controlled space.
Experts suggest that the fever might be attributed to stress, fatigue, or a sudden environmental shift.
"It will take time for the babies to adjust to their new surroundings, as orangutans typically thrive in rainforest conditions," explained a veterinary officer.
Aditya Acharya, head of the Centre for Wildlife Health at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), mentioned that monitoring high body temperature in orangutans is similar to that in humans.
"Like humans, animals are often given paracetamol-based treatments for elevated temperatures," Acharya added.
He also noted that the affected orangutan is being fed less than usual.
In response to the situation, the Odisha government has established a five-member technical committee to oversee the care of the five baby orangutans.
This panel will evaluate the welfare and maintenance of the rescued animals and provide expert guidance for their care.
The committee may also seek advice from national and international experts as needed.
Chief Wildlife Warden and PCCF (Wildlife) PK Jha stated that three caretakers and veterinarians are on duty around the clock to monitor the infants' health.
However, Jha mentioned he was unaware of the fever affecting one of the orangutans.
He assured that the caretakers are providing adequate care and feeding the animals every two hours as per the recommendations of animal health specialists.
The dietary plan includes milk every two hours, along with apple and banana fluids, and boiled potatoes at regular intervals, as outlined by experts.
To alleviate stress, the orangutans have been given soft toys and swings, and they are exposed to music.
The five orangutans were rescued from the Bichitrapur forest in the Bhograi block of Balasore district on September 8 and were placed in the quarantine facility at Nandankanan Zoo that same night.
In related news, the Odisha Police's Special Task Force (STF) and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) have intensified their investigation into the alleged international wildlife smuggling linked to this case.