Bhubaneswar: Authorities at Nandankanan Zoological Park in Odisha capital are examining moves to allow the five rescued baby orangutans to move into an open-air enclosure as part of their stress-relief initiative.
The opinion of the technical committee constituted by the government is expected to be obtained before taking the final decision on the proposal.
Meanwhile, one of the five orangutans who had developed fever was stated to have registered a normal body temperature on Tuesday.
Sources said the proposed open-air facility is located adjacent to the Hand Rearing Centre (HRC), where the orangutans are currently being housed in a closed, air-conditioned room under round-the-clock monitoring.
It is believed that periodic exposure to a larger outdoor space will help improve the animals’ physical activity and psychological well-being by providing them with a more natural environment.
It is proposed to intermittently provide open-air exposure to the rescued orangutans close to the facility where they are lodged now. The open-air facility can be used only after the technical committee gives a go-ahead, according to deputy director of Nandankanan, Pradeep Mirase.
Meanwhile, zoo officials observed encouraging signs in the health of the orangutans being closely monitored by veterinarians and animal keepers.
Notably, to oversee welfare and long-term management of the rescued apes, Nandankanan has formed a five-member technical committee comprising experts from leading wildlife and veterinary institutions. The panel includes a veterinary officer from Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, Mysuru; a representative of the director of Wildlife Institute of India; project coordinator of the Centre for Wildlife Health at OUAT; a veterinary officer nominated by the director of the National Zoological Park, New Delhi; and the director of Nandankanan, who will serve as member-convener.
Forest officials said efforts are being made to gradually recreate conditions like the orangutans’ natural habitat so that the young animals can adapt comfortably. Creating a more natural environment would remain a priority until a final decision is taken regarding their long-term rehabilitation and future care.
