Wildlife Conservation / Nandankanan Zoo Receives 58 Exotic Animals from Gujarat Trust

Bhubaneswar, Sept 12: Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar has expanded its biodiversity profile with the arrival of 14 exotic animal species comprising 58 individuals, donated by the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), Gujarat, officials said on Saturday.

The new consignment includes Zebra, Kangaroo, Bennett’s Wallaby, Ring‑tailed Lemur, Tufted Capuchin, Scarlet Macaw, Blue‑and‑Gold Macaw, Green‑Winged Macaw, Sulphur‑Crested Cockatoo, Crowned Crane, Scarlet Ibis, Meerkat, Cassowary, and Blue Wildebeest.

Boost to Species Diversity

With the addition of 10 new species, pairing of one species, and infusion of new bloodlines to three species, the Nandankanan zoo now houses 188 species. Officials said the arrivals will strengthen the zoo’s conservation‑education activities and provide visitors with opportunities to learn about wildlife from different regions and their ecological adaptations.
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Conservation and Care

The animals will be maintained under the zoo’s established animal‑care, veterinary, and husbandry systems, with emphasis on welfare and scientific management. All individuals are currently under quarantine as per protocol.

Educational Value

Zoo authorities noted that the new additions will enhance public awareness about biodiversity conservation and highlight the importance of protecting species across ecosystems. The exotic animals are expected to draw significant interest from visitors and researchers alike.

Officials said the donation reflects growing collaboration between institutions in strengthening conservation efforts and diversifying zoological collections in India.