Health checks
When confiscated orangutans come to the centers in Nyaru Menteng or Wanariset they are immediately examined by veterinarians. It is crucial to establish as soon as possible which diet and possible medical treatment an orangutan is in need of.
The orangutans are given a name straight away which helps for the journal keeping that is done for each individual. Many of the confiscated orangutans are in very poor physical condition. They are malnourished and often suffer from different diseases– many caught as a result of contact with their human abductors and owners. Therefore it is absolutely crucial that the new arrivals do not mix with the other orangutans in the center. Both small and large quarantine cages are used for these new arrivals. They will stay in these cages until their test results are back from the lab.
If a newly arrived orangutan actually suffers from an contagious illness he or she is placed in quarantine for a longer period of time. At Nyaru Menteng a lot of resources have gone into building large and comfortable cages that can be placed in green, forested areas. While they cannot have direct physical contact with the other orangutans, they are at least allowed to see what’s out there awaiting them.
After the orangutans have been examined and are deemed healthy they will be placed in one of two groups depending on their age and skills. Either they will go to the nursery or to the socialization home.
