Bhubaneswar, Nov 29: As the tourist season kicks off, Nandankanan Zoological Park is set to welcome 19 animals from Gujarat. The exchange comes following discussions between Nandankanan authorities and the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Zoological Garden in Surat, with approval granted by the Central Zoo Authority.
Sources indicate that the new arrivals are expected at Nandankanan by December 10, prompting the park to send a team to Gujarat for the transfer.
The incoming animals include:
5 water deer (3 males, 2 females), 2 gray gadhia (males), 10 Indian porcupines (5 males, 5 females),2 silver pheasants (1 male, 1 female).
In exchange, Nandanknan will send 14 animals of 5 species to Gujarat, comprising:
2 Mahabal tigers (1 male, 1 female), 2 gray gadhia (females), 3 Chowsinga (1 male, 2 females), 2 Kutura (females), 5 Indian leopards (2 males, 3 females).
The animal exchange aims to enhance biodiversity at both zoos while offering visitors a richer wildlife experience during the peak tourist season.
