Bhubaneswar, Sept. 10 (UDN): Five orangutans at Nandankanan Zoological Park will undergo a period of stress management, including music therapy, before officials proceed with the collection of their blood samples.

 Representational Image 

The scheduled sample collection on Thursday was deferred following recommendations from the Centre of Wildlife Health Committee, which advised authorities to first allow the animals adequate time to acclimatise and recover from stress.

Officials said the blood samples are now likely to be collected after around 10 days, once the orangutans are assessed to be in a stable and stress-free condition.

As part of the rehabilitation measures, the zoo has introduced toys and other enrichment items for the animals. A swing has also been installed following suggestions from wildlife experts. In addition, classical music will be played to help create a calmer environment for the orangutans.

Experts from Mysuru Zoo will monitor the animals through video conferencing and assess their behaviour and mental condition. The observations will help determine whether the orangutans are ready for the next stage of the medical procedure.

Nandankanan Deputy Director Pradeep Mirase said the wildlife health committee had recommended giving the animals another seven to eight days to acclimatise, with sample collection planned after roughly 10 days.

The authorities are continuing to closely monitor the five orangutans and are taking steps to minimise stress before carrying out the sample collection. Officials are also examining the circumstances surrounding the incident involving the animals, including the possible involvement of Forest Department personnel.