Assam zoo’s hygiene & care efforts lead to surge in births

Guwahati: Meticulous maintenance of hygiene in animal enclosures, comprehensive veterinary care, dedicated attention from animal keepers, and nutritionist-approved dietary regimens at the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden have yielded favourable outcomes. Thirty animals and birds of diverse species have been born thus far in the current financial year, compared to 35 births in the preceding financial year. The zoo's assistant conservator of Forests, Jayanta Goswami, said that the graph of animal and bird births demonstrates an upward trajectory, which is an encouraging indicator for the zoo. "This financial year, already, at least 30 animals and birds have been born, and we have another three months until this financial year concludes. We anticipate surpassing last year's figure," he elaborated. A female rhino calf was born on Nov 7 to Gaonburha and Pori. The head animal keeper, Rajanikanta Deka, who has served in the zoo since 1997, said it was the first rhino birth in the facility after 13 years. He noted that the mother rhino, Pori, aged 13 years and also born in the zoo, was physically quite frail. "Defying expectations, she delivered a female rhino, which awaits official naming. However, the animal keepers affectionately call her Purnima. The calf remains under observation, as rhino calves typically require monitoring for at least one year," he explained. The announcement of the rhino calf's birth, shared by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on his social media handles, garnered substantial attention from netizens, with many suggesting names including Durga, Prachand, Priya, Goldie, and R-Zoo. Besides the rhino calf, two lion cubs and one stump-tailed macaque have also been born in the zoo this financial year, becoming visitor attractions. Moreover, Deka explained that captive rhinos mature for conception at approximately 8-10 years, while captive elephants require about 13 years, and tigers and lions need roughly 3 years. "Maturation age varies amongst different species. Accordingly, continuous monitoring ensures proper health, nutrition, and requisite assistance round the clock," he said, noting that animal keepers are stationed at each enclosure. He added that veterinarians assess the animals' health twice daily, providing enhanced care to those who are unwell or require additional attention. The Head Animal Keeper emphasised their stringent focus on maintaining enclosure hygiene and feeding protocols. "Environmental adaptations are implemented based on seasonal requirements. Heaters have been installed in tiger, lion, and giraffe enclosures for winter, while plastic sheets cover aviary enclosures to shield birds from direct fog exposure. During summer months, fans are positioned in enclosures where necessary," he detailed.
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