After its recent research projects ended successfully, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park or Darjeeling zoo has been motivated to undertake two new projects on Red Panda and Himalayan Pheasant nutrition.
Experts from the Bareilly-based Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRS) have been roped in to impart training and research work.
“It is a prestigious project for the Darjeeling zoo, which is being funded by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). We have conducted successful research projects earlier too,” said zoo director AK Jha.
The PNHZP has successfully completed the conservation and breeding project on the Himalayan Black Bear and Snow Leopard and also of record-keeping in Indian zoos. The project on the Red Panda, also on breeding and conservation, is in progress.
Talking about the two new projects, the PNHZP director expressed optimism of its success. “Why not, projects that we have undertaken so far have all been successful. We will soon start the two new research projects and complete the Red Panda project,” said Jha.
The director admitted the subject on nutrition was not the forte of the PNHZP and the research work initiated in tandem with the experts from Bareilly would help the zoo.
“We not only keep animals, but also conduct breeding and conservation programmes on them. We conduct research work also and as nutrition is not our specialty, it is a welcome addition to the repertoire of the Darjeeling zoo,” remarked Jha.
The director is also of the opinion that research activities would help the youths of Darjeeling as they would get access to to a vast treasure of knowledge sitting at home.
“Educated youths of the hills have the opportunity to get involved in research work here and need not go elsewhere. They will also get exposure on a national level. We are happy to say that at least three local youths have applied for PhD after being attached in the three projects completed earlier,” informed Jha.
The PNHZP recently also hosted a four-day conservation and breeding management workshop for 25 animal species deemed as priority by the CZA.
Zoo representatives and experts in the field of conservation and breeding from the northeast and eastern parts of the country, including Darjeeling zoo, participated in the meeting held from September 16 to 19.
“The four-day meeting on conservation and breeding management plan for 25 species was prioritised by the CZA and the Wildlife Institute of India. The Red Panda and the Snow Leopard from Darjeeling zoo figures in the listed category set by the CZA and the WII,” the PNHZP director said.
Endangered species such as the vulture, wild buffalo, golden langur, Asiatic lion and rhinoceros are included in the CZA prioritised project.(EOI)
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