Amirthi Zoological Park in Vellore to get two pairs of Nilgai from Vandalur zoo

Two pairs of Nilgai will soon enthral visitors at the Amirthi Zoological Park, located at the foothills of Jawadhu Hills in Vellore, with spacious enclosures for the new arrivals and visitors watch spots.

Zoo officials said that Amirthi Zoo has been classified as a small zoo since its inception in 1967. Grading of zoos is based on total area coverage, number of enclosures and annual revenue generation. “Introducing new species into the zoo helps to attract more visitors, especially school students. Such new arrivals also help us to maintain a proper environment for the species,” M. Murugan, forest range officer, Amirthi zoo, told The Hindu.

As part of enhancing basic amenities for visitors and upkeep of species, T. Ritto Cyriac, Director, Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP), Vandalur, inspected the zoo in the presence of T.K. Ashok Kumar, District Forest Officer (DFO).  

Zoo officials said that Nilgai is endemic to the Indian subcontinent, especially at the foothills of Himalayas. The central parts of India also has a sizable population of the antelope. It prefers areas with short bushes, scattered trees and agricultural lands. Among zoos, Vandalur zoo has the highest number of nilgai.

Zoo officials said that the State government has given its nod for the new arrivals to Amirthi zoo. Preparatory works, including the setting up of enclosures with adequate space and greenery, are being processed to ensure that the nilgais acclimatise to the new environment. As per Central Zoo Authority (CZA) norms, on an average, 2,000 sq. metres of enclosure is required to host a maximum of four nilgais. The existing water pipelines will be re-laid to ensure an uninterrupted water supply to enclosures and visitors. Water taps and sprinklers will be set up inside the enclosures to beat the heat during summer.