Bhubaneswar: Arrival of five rescued infant orangutans at Nandankanan Zoological Park has revived memories of Binny, the zoo’s much-loved orangutan who spent 16 years captivating visitors before her death in 2019.For many regular visitors and zoo staff, Binny was more than just an exhibit. Brought from Pune Zoo in 2003 at the age of 25, she quickly became one of Nandankanan’s most popular attractions. A specially designed enclosure was created for her and over the years she developed an extraordinary bond with keepers, veterinarians and visitors alike.What made Binny truly special was her strikingly human-like behaviour. Zoo veterinarians recall how the intelligent ape would often point to an injured or infected part of her body during medical examinations, making treatment easier and strengthening the emotional bond with her caretakers.Nandankanan zoo director Sanath Kumar said Binny lived at the zoo for 16 years and was provided dedicated care throughout her stay. “She was brought here from Pune Zoo in 2003, and a special enclosure had been created for her. Due to age-related ailments, she died in May 2019,” he said.Former zoo director Sisir Acharya fondly remembers Binny’s affectionate nature and remarkable intelligence. “She was dear to both visitors and zoo staff. Whenever I visited her enclosure, she would often show me the spot where she had an infection. Such human-like reactions and emotions fascinated visitors more than any other animal in the zoo. There was never any problem with acclimatisation,” Acharya said.During her later years, Binny’s health was closely monitored, with Nandankanan consulting experts from Singapore Zoo for her treatment and care. Despite advancing age and associated ailments, she remained a favourite among visitors until her death.Since Binny’s death, Nandankanan had no orangutan in its collection. It is a matter of future decision and progress of ongoing investigation whether Nandankanan will have orangutans with five rescued ones being treated at hand rearing centre (HRC), away from public view. While the infants are now under care and rehabilitation, their presence has rekindled memories of Binny.
