Rescued Orangutans Adapting Well To Odisha Climate, DNA Tests To Trace Origin

Rescued Orangutans Adapting Well To Odisha Climate, DNA Tests To Trace Origin

Bhubaneswar, Sept.  30 (UDN): The rescued orangutans housed in Odisha are reportedly adapting well to the state’s climatic conditions, with their health showing signs of improvement, Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia said on Wednesday.

 Representational Image 

The Minister said the animals are under round-the-clock observation and are being regularly examined by teams of specialist veterinarians.

According to Khuntia, the orangutans have also shown an increase in body weight since their rescue, indicating improvement in their overall condition.

“The climate of Odisha suits the orangutans. Special care is being taken and 24-hour monitoring is being done. Their weight has also increased,” the Minister said.

Meanwhile, authorities are preparing to conduct DNA tests to establish the geographical origin of the rescued primates.

Khuntia said the state has been in touch with the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in connection with the testing. Samples are expected to be collected shortly and sent for examination.

Once the DNA analysis is completed, the report is expected to provide information that could help determine the orangutans’ origin, the Minister said.

“The samples will be collected very soon and sent for examination. After the DNA test report, it will be clear which country they have come from. The Government of India will also be informed,” Khuntia said.

The findings are expected to assist authorities in establishing the background and origin of the rescued orangutans and determining the appropriate course of action for their continued care.