Bhubaneswar, Sept 21: Five orangutan cubs rescued from Balasore have completed 14 days at the quarantine centre of the Infant Rearing Centre at Nandankanan Zoological Park. The cubs are currently undergoing treatment and observation under the supervision of a technical committee constituted by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF).
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The cubs are receiving regular health check-ups along with necessary food, milk and other nutritional support. Special arrangements have also been made to keep them active and mentally stimulated through various forms of play.
According to officials, the cubs have gradually started showing signs of improvement and are now more active than before. Following recommendations from experts and veterinarians who visited the facility last Saturday, changes have been made to their diet. The quantity of food and milk provided to the cubs will be increased gradually.
At present, the cubs are being fed boiled beans, carrots and other suitable food items. They have also been provided with bamboo swings and other play equipment. The cubs have reportedly been enjoying swinging and playing, showing increased activity.
Earlier on Monday and Tuesday, three members of the technical committee examined all five cubs and collected blood samples for testing. Preliminary tests indicated anaemia in three of the cubs, following which necessary medication was administered.
On Saturday, two members of the technical committee — Dr Abhilit Bhawal, Veterinary Officer at Delhi Zoo, and Dr Sanath Krishna Muliya, Wildlife Veterinarian at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun — visited the quarantine centre. They examined the cubs and provided recommendations regarding their diet, healthcare and overall management.
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The experts particularly advised gradually increasing the quantity of food and introducing more solid food into their diet. They also recommended the use of ivermectin/Jaramectin to completely eliminate possible worm infestation.
As per the recommendations of the technical committee, the five orangutan cubs will remain in quarantine for 30 days.
With 14 days of quarantine already completed, the cubs have another 16 days remaining. Their future accommodation will be decided after completion of the 30-day quarantine period.
Meanwhile, many tourists and wildlife enthusiasts have expressed interest in seeing the orangutan cubs remain at Nandankanan after the quarantine period.
