Nandankanan to Soon Open Orangutan Viewing for Tourists

There is good news for wildlife enthusiasts as tourists will soon get an opportunity to see orangutans at Nandankanan Zoological Park near Bhubaneswar.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida shared the information while speaking to journalists during her visit to Nandankanan Zoological Park on Wednesday. On Thursday evening, Parida, along with Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia and PCCF Prem Kumar Jha, visited the zoo and reviewed the health and care of five rescued orangutan infants.

During the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister took details from officials about the behaviour, feeding patterns and overall health of the rescued animals. She said the orangutan infants would be made available for public viewing soon.

The five orangutan infants were brought to Nandankanan on September 8 after being rescued from Balasore. They have been kept at the quarantine centre in the Child Care House near the zoo’s veterinary hospital.

Initially, the infants were being fed powdered milk at two-hour intervals and were kept under round-the-clock medical observation. The animals were found to be suffering from anaemia. To ensure proper treatment and care, the PCCF constituted a technical committee comprising veterinary experts, who subsequently started their treatment.

Special arrangements, including toys and swings, were also made for the young orangutans. Their health condition has gradually improved. Their food intake has now been increased, with boiled carrots, beans and other suitable food items being added to their diet.

The orangutans are also taken outdoors every morning to receive sunlight as part of their care routine. Blood samples will soon be collected under the guidance of the technical committee to determine their DNA and gather further information about the animals.

Officials said arrangements would be made to allow visitors to see the orangutans after completion of their 30-day quarantine period, subject to the recommendations of the technical committee and their health condition.

During her visit, Deputy Chief Minister Parida also inspected the otter enclosure at Nandankanan. She watched the otters swimming and feeding on fish and expressed her appreciation for the facility.

Parida further said tourists would soon be able to see new animals at Nandankanan, including kangaroos, wallabies and zebras, adding to the zoo’s attractions.

Nandankanan Zoological Park Deputy Director Pradip Mirase, senior veterinary officer Sarat Sahu and other senior officials were present during the visit.