Wildlife / Five Rescued Orangutans Shifted to Nandankanan Zoo Amid Trafficking Probe

Bhubaneswar, Sept 9: Five orangutans rescued from Balasore district have been shifted to Nandankanan Zoological Park here in Odisha, where they are currently under quarantine and undergoing detailed health checks, officials said on Wednesday.

Wildlife veterinarians, forest officials, and scientific experts are monitoring their condition closely, providing necessary treatment and care, they added.

The primates, some estimated to be around a year old, were brought late Tuesday night after being recovered from two sections of the Jaleswar range. Officials confirmed that the animals will remain in quarantine for several days to assess their health and behavioural patterns. Only after clearance from the National Zoo Authority will decisions be taken on their long‑term stay at Nandankanan.

Meanwhile, a multi‑agency investigation has been launched to trace the origins of the orangutans, which are not native to Odisha or India. Authorities suspect they were trafficked from outside the country.

A special task force comprising the Forest Department and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is examining possible smuggling routes and networks. CCTV footage from airports, railway stations, and ports is being scrutinised to identify suspicious movements.
Also Read: Five Young Orangutans Rescued In Baleshwar, Trafficking Angle Under Probe

Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said the inquiry will establish who brought the animals, from where, and how they reached Odisha. He acknowledged the challenge of creating a suitable environment for the orangutans, given their age and natural lifestyle. Experts are being consulted to design appropriate habitats, diet plans, and healthcare protocols.

The case has raised serious concerns about wildlife trafficking and the need for stronger surveillance at transit points. For Nandankanan, the immediate priority remains safeguarding the health of the rescued animals while ensuring compliance with national zoo regulations.