Zebras from Israel in exchange of Black Panther cubs
Special Representative
GUWAHATI, June 11 2021: Four zebras from Israel will be brought to Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden here in exchange of Black Panther cubs that were born in the zoo during the Covid-19 pandemic time.
In addition, four white winged wood ducks from Czech Republic are being brought to the zoo, according to the State Environment and Forest Minister Parimal Suklavaidya who said enclosures for the new inmates were almost ready.
The minister disclosed that two Black Panther cubs were born at the zoo on Friday while another two cubs were born a month and a half back.
Minister took a round of the enclosures in the state zoo along with principal chief conservator of forest, (wildlife), Amit Sahai and divisional forest officer, Assam State Zoo, Tejas Mariswamy, Friday and enquired about the health of the animals.
“As of now, not a single animal has been affected by the disease,” he said.
Suklabaidya said the zoo has been following the protocols to prevent spread of Covid-19, including sanitisation of food.
He said fresh grass has been grown for the herbivores in the hydroponic system within a span of seven days. Rhinos, deer, Nilgai and black bucks are being fed daily with fresh grass grown in the hydroponic enclosure.
The zoo has been closed to visitors since April 28 this year due to Covid-19. The minister however informed that there are no immediate plans to open the zoo in the greater interest of the animals as well as zoo keepers. “Till the pandemic situation returns to normal, the zoo shall remain closed,” he said.