BHUBANESWAR: The Nandankanan Zoological Park has introduced music therapy to soothe the five rescued orangutan infants and help them adjust to their new surroundings.
The zoo has started playing Indian classical music, hoping that the soothing melodies will help calm the little apes and make their transition to the new environment easier.
Zoo deputy director Pradeep Mirase said after the orangutans were brought to the facility, they started taking all necessary measures to help them acclimatise better to their new surroundings. “The step was taken after going through research studies which highlighted the potential calming effects of music therapy on animals,” he added.
Earlier on Thursday, zoo officials played music on a mobile phone without disturbing the animals’ regular activities. Mirase said they hope the therapy will help the baby orangutans remain relaxed and feel more comfortable in their new home.
Usually, infant orangutans stay with their mothers for some six or seven years until they develop the skills to survive on their own. “As these infant apes have been separated from their mother, we are planning to play classical music on a speaker at an understated volume in the days ahead to make them feel relaxed and comfortable,” said the zoo officials.
The zoo officials have also provided soft toys to the baby orangutans as part of stress-free management measures. Three of them displayed playful behaviour on the day, while two others showed signs of anxiety. “Their health and mental conditions are being closely monitored by veterinary experts,” said the zoo officials. Fruits, bottled milk and other items are being provided to the orangutans. Three dedicated caretakers are looking after them round-the-clock, they added.