Five Orangutans Found in Odisha Raise Wildlife-Trafficking Concerns

On 8th September 2026, five infant orangutans were found near the Bichitrapur forest area in Balasore district, Odisha, far outside their natural range.

  • Orangutans are native only to Indonesia and Malaysia. The Bornean orangutan occurs on Borneo, while the Sumatran and Tapanuli orangutans are found only on Sumatra.
  • Initial observations suggest the rescued animals may be Sumatran orangutans, though genetic testing is needed for confirmation.
  • The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) is investigating their origin and possible links with an international wildlife-trafficking network.
  • The animals were transferred to Nandankanan Zoological Park for care.
  • Indonesian authorities are coordinating with India and ....
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