A baby orangutan rescued from Balasore has fallen ill with a recurring fever at Nandankanan Zoo. A special technical committee has been formed to oversee its recovery.
The health of a rescued baby orangutan at the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar has become a matter of intense concern. Since Sunday, September 13, 2026, one of the five babies—recently rescued from the Balasore district—has been battling a high body temperature. While medical intervention provides temporary relief, the fever reportedly recurs, keeping veterinary staff on edge.
Experts suggest that the ailment could be a physiological response to environmental stress or fatigue. Unlike their natural rainforest habitats, the current quarantine environment may require an adjustment period. To combat this, authorities have installed special mosquito nets and established temperature-controlled rooms for the primates.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this health crisis highlights the extreme vulnerability of non-native species caught in illegal wildlife trade. The fact that these animals are being treated with human-like medical protocols (such as paracetamol-based medication) underscores the specialized and intensive care required to keep them alive after being uprooted from their natural ecosystems.
High body temperature in orangutans is monitored similarly to humans, often requiring paracetamol-based medications.
In response to the situation, the Odisha government has constituted a five-member technical committee to oversee the welfare of these animals. This panel will provide expert technical inputs and may consult international organizations to ensure the highest standards of care. Chief Wildlife Warden P.K. Jha confirmed that caretakers are feeding the babies every two hours with a specialized diet of milk, fruit fluids, and boiled potatoes.
Historical Background
The five baby orangutans were rescued from the Bichitrapur forest in the Bhograi block of Balasore on September 8. Their discovery has triggered a massive investigation by the Odisha Police's Special Task Force (STF) and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) into a potential international wildlife smuggling ring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question 1: What is the current diet for the baby orangutans?
Answer: They are being fed milk every two hours, supplemented with apple and banana fluids and boiled potatoes.
Question 2: Are the other orangutans in danger?
Answer: Currently, the other four orangutans are reported to be healthy and responding normally to their environment.
