The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP), also known as Darjeeling Zoo, in West Bengal has recently gained recognition from the World Association for Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) due to its successful conservation breeding programme (CBC) for snow leopards. This achievement underlines the zoo’s commitment to preserving wildlife and endangered species.
World Association for Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) Explained
WAZA is an international alliance consisting of regional associations, national federations, as well as zoos and aquariums. The organization is deeply committed to animal care and conservation, aiming to protect animals and their habitats around the world. WAZA’s member base comprises nearly 400 reputable institutions and organizations globally, a number that continues to rise.
About the Conservation of Snow Leopards at Darjeeling Zoo
In India, Darjeeling Zoo runs the only conservative breeding program for snow leopards. Moreover, it also hosts conservative breeding programs for other species such as red pandas, mountain orals and pheasants. The park holds the title of being the largest high altitude zoo across the country.
Darjeeling’s Successful Conservation Breeding Programme
Darjeeling Zoo initiated the first-ever ex-situ conservation breeding project in 1986, specifically targeting Snow Leopard preservation. The CBC recorded its first birth of a snow leopard in 1989. Since then, the zoo has successfully bred 77 snow leopards, marking a significant milestone in wildlife conservation.
The success of the breeding program can largely be attributed to a careful selection process for male and female snow leopards, providing a natural environment within the enclosures, and maintaining a wide genetic pool to prevent inbreeding. The snow leopards are initially placed in adjacent enclosures to promote courtship. Once a pair exhibits compatibility, they are moved to the same enclosure.
Pregnant female leopards receive optimum care – they are separated and placed under 24X7 CCTV surveillance, and their health, including blood tests and body weight, is regularly monitored. In line with its commitment to biosecurity, the zoo ensures regular screening for parasites, deworming, and provides advanced veterinary facilities for all its captive animals.
Previous Year’s UPSC Civil Services Examination Question
In the 2012 UPSC Civil Services Examination, there was a question related to species naturally found in India: Black-necked crane, Cheetah, Flying squirrel and Snow leopard. The question asked candidates to choose which of these species are naturally found in India, with options (a) 1, 2 and 3 only, (b) 1, 3 and 4 only, (c) 2 and 4 only, and (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4. The correct answer was (b) 1, 3 and 4 only.
