Tiny newborn orphan Aba faced a scary first-time experience—his very first bath. As rescuers gently placed him near the shallow water, Aba’s frightened cries echoed through the room. Trembling and holding tightly to a soft towel, the little monkey clearly didn’t understand what was happening.
Having recently lost his mother, Aba is not only physically fragile but emotionally shaken. Like many orphaned primates, he depends on comforting touch, warmth, and consistency. So when introduced to the unfamiliar feeling of water, his instinct was fear.
Caretakers took every precaution—using warm water, slow movements, and soft towels—but Aba still cried out, clinging with all his strength. His eyes darted nervously, his tiny fingers trying to grab anything familiar. Every second showed just how deeply affected orphaned infants can be by change.
But despite his fear, the bath was necessary. Newborn macaques like Aba are vulnerable to infection, and a gentle cleaning helps remove dirt, bacteria, and irritants—especially after exposure to the wild. The bath was brief and careful. The moment it was over, a warm towel wrapped around his shivering body, and the soothing began.
