Patna: With temperatures falling in the city, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, popularly known as Patna Zoo, implemented specific measures to ensure the comfort of around 1,200 animals belonging to 93 species that it houses. The zoo also modified dietary plans to safeguard the animals’ health during this period.
The zoo management said that customised arrangements were made for different species based on their individual needs.
According to zoo officials, protein supplements are increased in their diet, and special arrangements with heating devices, thatches, wooden platforms, hay and dry grass are made in night houses and enclosures.
In the reptile house, blankets are given to snakes, and high voltage fluorescent bulbs are installed to keep the cold-blooded species warm. Primates also receive blankets.
More than 45 heaters and blowers have been placed in the enclosures of tigers, lions, leopards, jungle cats, bears and primates (monkeys, chimpanzees, langurs, and lion-tailed macaques).
Patna Zoo’s range officer Anand Kumar said on Thursday comprehensive measures were implemented to safeguard the animals’ well-being during cold wave. “Thatched walls have been put up in the ventilation of the enclosures of deer, sambar and cheetal, while hay has been spread for zebras and giraffes. Cages of birds have also been covered with straw. Aquariums have been equipped with a thermo-dynamic system, which controls the temperature of the water,” he said.
Kumar informed the TOI that the zoo is also focusing on the animals’ dietary plans and giving them medical attention. “The zoo’s veterinary team maintains constant surveillance of the animals’ health conditions,” he said.
Carnivores (meat-eaters) are supplied with extra meat daily to maintain their body heat. Seasonal fruits, vegetables and additional supplements have been added to the diet of some species to help them withstand cold temperatures, whilst boosting their immunity.
The primates, including monkeys and chimpanzees, receive chyawanprash (made of medicinal herbs and their extracts) and high-protein food like groundnuts, dry fruits, kheer and boiled eggs, whilst bears are given honey, jaggery and sugar cane. The elephants’ diet includes their preferred sugar cane and jaggery, and the birds receive super worms and seasonal fruits.