Bhubaneswar, Oct 22: The Nandankanan Zoological Park authorities have taken various precautionary measures to protect animals, reptiles, and birds during the impending cyclone 'Dana', which is likely to hit the Odisha coast between Puri and Sagar Island sometime between the night of October 24 and the morning of October 25. 

The zoological park may remain closed for visitors on the day the foreseen cyclone hits the coast. 

A set of guidelines have been issued by the zoo authorities to protect the inmates. 

A 24-hour control room under the guidance of the Assistant Conservator of the Forest (ACF0) will operate. All staff members of the Nandankan Zoo have been advised not to leave the headquarters until normalcy is restored. 

Weak tree branches and branches in threatening positions will be cut apart before the cyclone. 

Bix boxes will be kept ready in bird enclosures for the safety of the winged creatures. 

Anti-venom serums will be kept in adequate quantities in the zoo hospital.