As the mercury drops, the dedicated team at Patna’s Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, affectionately known as Patna Zoo, is working tirelessly to keep its diverse animal residents warm, healthy, and happy! Forget just snuggling under blankets; this winter, the zoo is rolling out some seriously innovative care.
Gone are the old, problematic rod heaters for carnivores. This year, the zoo has upgraded to modern oil heaters, ensuring a comfortable warmth without compromising oxygen levels – a huge win for our furry friends! For the cold-blooded inhabitants, like snakes, traditional bulbs have been replaced with efficient fluorescent and UV lights, perfectly maintaining their crucial temperatures.
But winter warmth isn’t just about technology. Animals are also enjoying a boosted diet of immunity-building treats, from chyawanprash for primates to honey and sugarcane for bears. And get this: the elephants are getting daily, luxurious oil massages using 1.5-2 litres of mustard oil – talk about pampering!
Beyond the immediate winter comfort, Patna Zoo is also looking towards an exciting future of conservation. A major focus is on strengthening animal bloodlines to prevent genetic diseases. This involves innovative “male-to-male swaps” with other major Indian zoos and even whispers of international animal exchanges to bring in new attractions and boost conservation efforts. Director Hemant Patil hints at a “surprise element” coming soon – we can’t wait!
With ongoing infrastructure upgrades, a keen eye on cleanliness, and even a recent thumbs-up from Bihar’s Chief Minister, Patna Zoo is clearly thriving. It’s a place where animal welfare and forward-thinking conservation truly come first!
Source: https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2025/12/28/ces5-bh-patna-zoo.html
