Mystery Orangutans' Origin Under Scrutiny

To unravel the mystery surrounding five orangutans rescued near Bichitrapur, zoo authorities in Bhubaneswar will send their blood samples for a taxonomic study by the Zoological Survey of India. This genetic analysis is expected to identify their geographic population and native habitat, providing crucial clues for investigators probing a suspected wildlife trafficking network. The process is currently delayed because three of the five orangutans are suffering from low hemoglobin levels, around 6.2, which is below the desired count.

Veterinary experts stated that blood samples will only be collected once the orangutans' hemoglobin count improves to approximately 9-10 to prevent additional stress. These primates are currently housed in a controlled, air-conditioned environment at the Nandankanan Zoological Park's Hand Rearing Centre, receiving round-the-clock veterinary observation and specialized care. Their nutritional status is being improved through a carefully designed diet, with their recovery being the immediate priority.

Suggestions have been made to also send blood samples to the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology in Hyderabad, which maintains genetic records of zoo animals. This complementary study could help identify specific genotypes and strengthen the determination of the orangutans' parent habitat. The findings are anticipated to play a vital role in the ongoing investigation into this unusual wildlife trafficking mystery.