Orangutans Rescued in Odisha Face Extended Quarantine

Five infant orangutans, rescued from a forest in Odisha's Balasore district on September 8, are set for an extended stay at Nandankanan Zoological Park. The animals will undergo a 90-day quarantine as advised by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to ensure their health and prevent disease spread. This extended period is standard for high-risk species, especially given that orangutans are critically endangered and listed under CITES Appendix I, restricting international trade.

Officials stated that the orangutans' origin and health history are unknown. During quarantine, only essential caregivers and doctors will have access. They will be moved to larger, open enclosures during the day to adapt to the environment. While some of the infants were anemic, their hemoglobin levels are improving. A technical committee has been formed to oversee their care.

Public viewing will be prohibited until a final decision is made by the state government and statutory bodies. Investigations by the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and a state-formed committee are ongoing to determine the apes' origin and address potential smuggling concerns, though no breakthrough has been reported.