Five baby orangutans rescued from Balasore district in Odisha were taken to Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar, where they are now showing a range of emotions that resemble those of human children.
The animals were rescued by forest department personnel on Tuesday and placed in a quarantine cell. On Thursday, they were allowed out for a sunbath to keep them stress‑free, a senior official said.
The orangutans, about one year old, have displayed momentary mood swings, cling to each other, and play with teddy bear soft toys. They are receiving the best veterinary treatment and are monitored for mental condition, according to the zoo director. They are fed infant milk formula, boiled mashed apple, banana, and oral dehydration, and a veterinary doctor is on duty round‑the‑clock.
Three animal keepers look after them, and a health committee of veterinary experts from OUAT has conducted an initial examination. After acclimatization, bio‑samples such as blood and oral swabs will be collected for screening at the Centre for Wildlife Health.
