Bhubaneswar, 08 September (H.S.): The sighting of five unusual animals resembling orangutans in the Bichitrapur forest under Bhograi block of Odisha’s Balasore district has sparked curiosity among locals and prompted an investigation by the Forest Department.

The animals were spotted by residents moving through the trees, following which a large crowd gathered at the site. Several locals also recorded photographs and videos of the animals.

Forest Department officials reached the spot after receiving information and rescued all five animals. They were subsequently taken to a veterinary hospital for health and physical examination.

Although the animals have been described as orangutans based on their appearance, their exact species has not yet been officially confirmed. Orangutans are not native to Indian forests, making their presence in the area unusual.

Officials are examining whether the animals were kept in captivity, brought from elsewhere and released, or belong to another species that resembles orangutans. The Forest Department has launched an investigation to establish their species, origin and the circumstances under which they reached the Bichitrapur forest.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda