Baby Orangutan Under Treatment at Odisha's Nandankanan Zoo

One of five baby orangutans rescued in Odisha is being treated for a recurring fever at the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar. The animal has struggled with high body temperature since it was found on September 8 in a forest near Bhograi in the Balasore district. While the fever subsides with medication, officials report that it has recurred, including on Sunday, though its condition was reported as stable on Monday.

The other four orangutans are reported to be healthy. Experts suggest the illness may be caused by stress, fatigue, or the challenge of acclimating to a new environment, as orangutans naturally live in rainforests. Aditya Acharya, head of the Centre for Wildlife Health at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, stated that the animal is being treated with paracetamol based medication. To support the animals, the zoo has provided a temperature controlled room with mosquito nets, soft toys, swings, and music. Their diet includes milk every two hours, boiled potatoes, and apple and banana fluids.

The Odisha government has established a five member technical committee to monitor the health and management of the apes. Meanwhile, the state has requested permission from the Central Zoo Authority to keep the animals at Nandankanan. While there are reports that Indonesia is seeking the return of the primates, senior state officials stated that the current priority is their survival. The Odisha Police Special Task Force and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau are investigating the case as a potential instance of international wildlife smuggling.