Full Breakdown
Rescued Baby Orangutans at Nandankanan Zoo: Health Check After Fever Emerges
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – Fever Detected in One Infant Orangutan
A six-member team of health experts examined the five baby orangutans quarantined at Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar on September 15, 2026 after one showed a high body temperature beginning September 13, 2026. The fever subsides with medication but recurs, and the infant remains under strict medical supervision. The other four infants are stable, with normal feed acceptance and activity levels.
Background & Context – Rescue and Smuggling Probe
The five orangutans were rescued from the Bichitrapur forest in Balasore district on September 8. Their rescue prompted the Odisha government to launch a joint investigation by the Odisha Police’s Special Task Force (STF) and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) into alleged international wildlife smuggling.
Data & Statistics – Health Metrics and Care Regimen
- Body temperatures recorded between 98 °F and 99 °F.
- All receive milk every two hours, supplemented with apple, banana fluids and boiled potatoes.
- The quarantine enclosure became crowded after the arrival of 58 new animals, leading to separate mosquito nets and a temperature-controlled room.
- Caretakers provide soft toys, swings and background music to reduce stress.
Official Statements & Responses
- Aditya Acharya, head of the Centre for Wildlife Health at OUAT, said high body temperature in orangutans is monitored like in humans and paracetamol-based medication is used. He noted the feverish infant is being offered reduced food portions.
- Chief Wildlife Warden P.K. Jha said three caretakers and doctors have been deployed for continuous monitoring and that the feeding schedule is being followed. He later clarified he had no information about a fever case, indicating a lack of awareness at the highest wildlife authority.
- The Odisha government formed a five-member technical committee, chaired by the principal chief conservator of forests (Wildlife), to oversee welfare and consult national and international experts as needed.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
A discrepancy exists: a senior official and the veterinary officer confirmed fever, while P.K. Jha asserted he was unaware of any case, highlighting a gap in internal communication.
Timeline
What’s Next – Ongoing Monitoring and Investigation
The technical committee will continue to assess health and welfare, providing inputs and coordinating with external experts. The STF and WCCB have intensified their probe into the alleged smuggling network linked to the rescue. Round-the-clock veterinary care, environmental enrichment and stress-mitigation measures remain in place as the infants acclimate to quarantine.