Patna Zoo
By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: As a severe cold wave continues to sweep across Bihar, plunging temperatures have disrupted daily life and posed challenges for wildlife as well. In response, the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, popularly known as Patna Zoo, has put in place special arrangements to protect animals and birds from the biting cold.
Zoo authorities have installed blowers and heaters in the enclosures of large animals, with special night-time monitoring when temperatures drop sharply. Heaters have been fitted in the cages of tigers, lions, cheetahs, chimpanzees, bears and gorillas. Entry points of enclosures have been covered with straw to help maintain warmth.
Special attention is being given to smaller animals and primates. Chyawanprash is being added to their diet to boost immunity during winter. Zoo Director Hemant Patil said these measures aim to protect animals from seasonal illnesses. Blankets have also been arranged for primates such as monkeys, langurs and chimpanzees.
For birds, windows and ventilators of cages and night houses have been covered with straw, grass and bamboo mats to block cold winds while ensuring proper light and ventilation. Plastic sheets and agro-nets have been used to shield bird enclosures from cold waves. Wooden platforms have been placed outside cages to allow birds to bask in the sun, while similar platforms have been provided for larger animals to prevent direct contact with the cold ground.
Reptiles, especially snakes, are also receiving special care. Blankets have been spread on the floors of snake enclosures, and high-power heating bulbs installed to maintain suitable temperatures, as reptiles are highly sensitive to cold.
Dietary intake of carnivorous animals has been increased, with a focus on both quantity and nutritional quality. Animals are being given multivitamins and calcium supplements. Chimpanzees are being fed chyawanprash, honey, jaggery-based kheer, preserves and seasonal fruits, while bears are receiving fruits, honey, eggs, kheer and sugarcane.
Elephants are being given regular oil massages using mustard oil, along with a nutritious diet including sugarcane, soybeans, seasonal fruits and boiled paddy to maintain immunity during winter.
Zoo officials said all arrangements are under constant supervision. Teams of veterinarians and caretakers are deployed in shifts to ensure round-the-clock monitoring and immediate treatment if required.
Visitors have appreciated the unique winter care measures. Ajay Kumar, who visited the zoo with his children, said the arrangements for animals were impressive. Another visitor, Ravi Kumar, said it was heartening to see special preparations for animals’ comfort. A Class 8 student, Ruchir Raj, said he was delighted to see a python wrapped in a blanket and chimpanzees enjoying chyawanprash, making the visit memorable.
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