Stick to animal exchange norms, Indore zoo told

INDORE: Two months after the death of a white tiger cub shortly after a few days of its transfer to Indore zoo from Aurangabad, the Central Zoo Authority of India (CZAI) has instructed all zoological parks across the country to strictly adhere to its guidelines for animal exchange programme.

The CZAI observed that the quality of captive animals in some zoos suffered due to violation of animal exchange programme and many died after their relocation. Wildlife experts attribute it to pre-mature release of cubs in a zoo to attract visitors.

However, the new order raised question over the plans of Indore zoo to transfer lion from Kamla Nehru Zoological Park in Rajkot and tiger from Junagarh Zoological Park. Zoo in-charge Uttam Yadav claimed that they have made the plans by keeping CZAI guidelines in mind.The zoo, going by the guidelines, needs to have forest like cage (mot) for animals and exchange of animals should be allowed only if a pair is available. Besides, it is necessary to conduct medical check-up of animals before and after relocation or exchange. Animal which are 20% above their average age and less than their 80% of average age can only be exchanged.

Sources said most of the time ill underage or above prescribed age animal are exchanged and animals are also not exchanged in pair. It affects their reproduction. In exchange, under and above age animals run greater risk of death in as these are unable to adjust to new atmosphere.