Bhubaneswar, Oct 6: The Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is all set to send a pair of Bengal tigers to the Surat Municipal Corporation-run Dr. Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Zoological Garden in exchange for smooth-coated otters, marking a unique animal exchange initiative between the two prestigious zoos.
This exchange highlights Odisha's contribution to wildlife conservation and the growing reputation of Nandankanan as a hub for animal exchanges. The deal was finalized after the Central Zoo Authority, under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, approved the proposal. The Surat Zoo will deliver a variety of animals, including otters, Indian grey wolves, Indian star tortoises, and silver pheasants, in return for the prized Bengal tigers.
The smooth-coated otters, which are currently a major success story at the Surat Zoo, have an interesting history tied to the devastating 2006 floods in Surat. During the floods, a pair of otters was rescued, and over the years, the Surat Zoo became the only one in the country to successfully breed them, with a current population of 36 otters.
Dr. Rajesh Patel, Wildlife Superintendent of Surat Zoo, explained, “In exchange for these otters, we will receive an adult male and female Bengal tiger, which are highly valued species. These tigers will bring a new dimension to Surat Zoo, and we hope to breed them in the future.”
As part of the exchange, Surat Zoo will send a total of five otters (three males and two females), along with other animals like Indian grey wolves, Indian star tortoises, and silver pheasants. In return, Nandankanan will receive a pair of Bengal tigers, two female Indian grey wolves, four-horned antelopes, barking deer, and Indian jackals.
The exchange is not just about the animals, but also about strengthening ties between Indian zoos, sharing resources, and fostering wildlife conservation initiatives. Nandankanan, known for its rich biodiversity and successful conservation efforts, continues to play a leading role in the country's wildlife preservation.
Dr. Patel further emphasized, “We have been in constant touch with Nandankanan, and we are excited to receive these tigers. They will complement our existing collection of white tigers, which have attracted a lot of attention from visitors. The Bengal tiger, being an endangered species, will significantly enhance the zoo’s display.”
The tiger exchange is part of Nandankanan’s broader efforts to ensure genetic diversity and to promote breeding programs for endangered species. The zoo is known for its successful breeding programs, including for species like the rare white tiger and the Indian rhinoceros.
While the Surat Zoo prepares for the arrival of the Bengal tigers, the Nandankanan Zoo is also getting ready to welcome its new otters and other species, further enriching the wildlife experience in Odisha. This exchange reinforces Nandankanan’s role as a key player in India’s zoological community, helping foster a more sustainable approach to wildlife conservation.
Tags: Odisha
