Bhubaneswar, Sept. 4 (UDN): A hoolock gibbon briefly ventured outside its enclosure at Nandankanan Zoological Park on Friday, prompting an alert among visitors and zoo officials before the primate safely returned to its habitat.

Representational Image 

According to reports, the gibbon exited its enclosure and climbed onto a large tree nearby, where it remained for some time. Tourists who spotted the animal outside its designated enclosure immediately alerted zoo authorities.

Following the information, Nandankanan officials activated their emergency response and informed the tranquilliser team to remain ready if intervention became necessary.

However, before the rescue team could act, the commotion created by visitors and staff reportedly startled the gibbon, prompting it to climb back into its enclosure on its own.

No injuries to visitors, staff or the animal were reported during the incident.

The circumstances under which the gibbon managed to leave its enclosure remain unclear. Zoo authorities have yet to issue an official statement explaining how the incident occurred or whether an internal inquiry has been initiated.

The brief episode drew the attention of visitors at the popular wildlife park before normalcy was restored after the gibbon returned safely.