Two weeks ago, five baby orangutans found in a forest in Odisha’s Balasore district left wildlife officials with an unusual question: how had animals native to Southeast Asia ended up here?

Now, there is another question.

How are the five babies doing?

The latest health assessments bring some reassurance. All five are stable, accepting food normally and showing normal activity under close veterinary observation.

But their first days in care have also revealed the challenges of looking after five young orangutans separated from their mothers and familiar surroundings.

Three were found to have anaemia, they have been treated for a worm load, and veterinarians have also reported signs of stress.

So, how are they doing now?

On 19 September, Delhi Zoo veterinary officer Dr Abhijit Bhawal and Wildlife Institute of India veterinarian Dr Sanath Krishna Muliya examined the five babies at their quarantine facility.

The assessment found all five to be stable and accepting their feed normally. Zoo officials have also reported normal activity and behaviour.

The experts recommended continuing treatment for their worm load, gradually increasing the amount of food they receive and introducing more solid food.

Their milk intake is being increased gradually, while foods such as steamed carrots and beans have been added to their diet.

The update comes after a few health concerns emerged during their first days in care.

Earlier blood tests found anaemia in three of the five babies. One had severe anaemia, while two had mild anaemia. They were given nutritional supplements, including additional iron, as part of their treatment.

One of the babies also developed a recurring fever after the rescue. Veterinarians conducted further........

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