Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo), Chennai
Arignar Anna Zoological
Park (abbreviated AAZP), also known as the Vandalur Zoo, is a zoological garden located in Vandalur, a suburb in the southwestern part of Chennai, Tamil
Nadu, about 31 kilometers (19 mi) from the city centre
and 15 kilometers (9.3 mi) from Chennai
Airport. It previous location was
set up in 1855 and was the first public zoo in India. It is affiliated with the Central. Spread over an area of 602 hectares (1,490 acres),
including a 92.45-hectare (228.4-acre) rescue and rehabilitation centre, the
park is the largest zoological garden in India.
The zoo houses 2,553
species of flora and fauna across 1,265 acres (512 ha). As of 2012 the park
houses around 1,500 wild species, including 46 endangered species, in its 160
enclosures. As of 2010, there were about 47 species of mammals, 63 species of birds, 31 species of reptiles, 5 species of amphibians, 25 species of fishes, and 10 species of insects in the park. The park, with an objective to
be a repository of the state's fauna, is credited with being the second
wildlife sanctuary in Tamil
Nadu after Mudumalai National Park.
History
In 1854, Edward
Green Balfour, the then director of
the Government Central Museum at Madras, persuaded the Nawab of the Carnatic to donate his entire animal collection to the
museum. This attracted large crowds and became the nucleus of the Madras
Zoo, which was founded in 1855. Balfour started the zoo on the museum premises, and a year later it had over 300 animals, including
mammals, birds and reptiles. It was later transferred to the Madras Corporation and shifted to People's Park near Chennai
Central railway station at Park Town in 1861, as it was growing. The municipal
zoological garden occupied one end of the 116-acre (47 ha) park and was
open free to the public.
By 1975, the zoo could no
longer expand, and it had to be moved out of the city because of space
constraints and increased noise pollution due to the city's high-density
traffic. Hence it was planned in 1976 to maintain the animals in the zoo in
good simulated conditions. In 1976, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department set aside 1,265 acres (512 ha) in the Vandalur Reserve Forest on the outskirts of the city to build the current
zoo, which is the largest zoological garden in India and the Indian Subcontinent and one of the largest in the world.
Work started in 1979 at an
initial cost of ₹ 75 million, and the zoo in its new premises was
officially opened to public on 24 July 1985 by the then chief minister of Tamil
Nadu M. G. Ramachandran, when most of the works were completed. In the
beginning, the area was nothing more than a scrub jungle, with practically no
tree cover. The zoo authorities and people from surrounding villages collected
seeds of different trees from neighbouring areas and afforested the zoo
area. In 2001, 92.45 hectares (228.4 acres) of land next to the park was
acquired to build a rescue and rehabilitation centre for confiscated and
abandoned wild animals, increasing the park's size to 602 hectares (1,490
acres).
In 1955, the zoo held the
first All-India Zoo Superintendents Conference, as part of the centenary
celebrations. The zoo is named after Tamil politician Annadurai commonly called as Arignar Annadurai.
·
1855 – The zoo was
opened to the public.
·
1975 – The zoo was
moved from the heart to the city to the outskirts to accommodate the planned expansion.
·
1979 – Vandalur Zoo
was shifted into the Vandalur Forest Reserve Area by the Forest Department of
Tamil Nadu.
·
1985 – The zoo was
inaugurated and re-opened to the public in its new expanded avatar.
·
1989 – Reptile house
was opened to the public.
·
2008 – Elephant
safari was started in the zoo.
·
2010 – Walk though
aviary was re-opened to the public after renovation.
Objectives, Organizational
Structure & Revenue Generation
The main objectives of the
park are ex-situ propagation of critically endangered species to
prevent their extinction, wildlife education and interpretation aimed at a
wider public appreciation of wildlife, and wildlife research to promote
wildlife conservation and management.
The overall management of
the zoo is vested in the director of the park. The director is also the member
secretary of the Zoo Authority of Tamil Nadu (formed under Tamil Nadu Society
Act), which started functioning from 1 April 2005, and comprises the following
members:
· The Secretary to
Government, Environment and Forest Department (Chairman)
·
The Secretary to
Government, Finance Department (Member)
· The Secretary to
Government, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Department (Member)
·
The Principal Chief Conservator
of Forests, Tamil Nadu (Member)
· Vice-Chancellor, Tamil
Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Member)
·
Director, Department of
Environment (Member)
·
Commissioner, Tourism
Department (Member)
· Principal Chief
Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, Tamil Nadu (Member)
·
Chief Conservator of
Forests and Director, AAZP (Member Secretary)
The Government of Tamil
Nadu provides funds for paying the zoo staff and maintenance of zoo vehicles.
Other expenditures, such as maintenance of animal enclosures, feed for animals,
animal health care, maintenance of zoo, drainage, water, electricity and
maintenance of battery-operated vehicles, are met from the income generated by
the zoo, chiefly by means of the entry fee. Income is also generated from
battery-operated vehicle (BOV) charges, elephant rides, toilets lease, and
bicycle charges from TI cycles, the leased parking area and food and beverages
outlets such as Hotel Tamil Nadu, Aavin, and TANTEA. The yearly budget of the
park for its developmental and maintenance work is approved by the governing
board.
The functions of the zoo
are carried out by several departments, namely, administration, animal welfare,
commissary (store), transport, research, education and awareness, veterinary,
horticulture, security and sanitation. There are currently about 262 full-time
staff against a sanctioned strength of 300, including forest rangers, wildlife
keepers, biologists and veterinary doctors.
The director in the rank
of chief conservator of forests, supported by one additional director, one
deputy director, and two assistant directors, heads the park. Other staff
includes 27 ministerial staff, 39 field staff (including drivers) and 172
permanent workers under various categories. In addition to the regular staff,
the park has also employed contract labourers. The veterinary department is
headed by one veterinary officer and two veterinary assistant surgeons with two
veterinary attendants. The task of education, interpretation, and research is
executed by three biologists of the park.
Location & Boundaries
The park is located
at Vandalur in the south-western part of the Chennai Metropolitan Area, about 6 kilometers (3.7 mi) from Tambaram and about 15 kilometers (9.3 mi) from Chennai
Airport. The whole of the park
and the proposed night safari zone lie within the Vandalur Reserve Forest area located immediately to the southwest of Tambaram Air Force Station. The eastern and western sides of the park are bordered
by Hassan and Otteri lakes, respectively.
The main entrance of the
zoo lies on the eastern side of the Chennai–Trichy Highway (National Highway 45), also known as the Grand Southern Trunk (GST) Road,
near its intersection with the Vandalur–Kelambakkam Road. The lion safari range
lies in the north-eastern side of the park, pervading into the reserve forest
area, and the rescue and rehabilitation centre and the proposed night safari
zone are located at the southern side across the Vandalur–Kelambakkam Road.
The Vandalur railway station of the Chennai suburban railway network is located at the north-western side,
about 1 kilometer (0.62 mi) from the main entrance of the park.
Environment
The zoo is located within
the Vandalur Reserve Forest area. The zoo's ecosystem consists of dry deciduous and dry evergreen scrub forest vegetation of
the Eastern Ghats, a degraded forest consisting of mostly thorny bushes,
receiving an average annual rainfall of 1,400 millimeters (55 in) and an average
annual temperature of 26 °C (79 °F). The terrain is a gentle
undulating one ranging in altitude from 10 to 100 metres (33 to
328 ft) with an average elevation of 50 metres (160 ft) above sea
level.
The park was designed to
keep the natural vegetation of the area intact except where enclosures, roads,
and structures had to be constructed. Originally a sparse scrub forest invaded
by weeds, consisting of species such as Carissa sp., Gmelina sp., Eugenia sp., Acacia sp., Instia sp. and a few other dry evergreen forest species,
the park's vegetation was gradually enriched by planting dry evergreen
species. The entire campus has been fortified by means of a compound
wall, preventing any biotic interference in the park and allowing the
natural growth of vegetation, which give the park the look of a natural forest.
The park is built based on
the 'open zoo' concept. The exhibits were originally based on taxonomic and
geographical distribution of the species, but have now been replaced by
ecological niches and habitats. The order of priority is local species,
followed by regional, national, and international species. The use of moats has
made it possible to house predator and prey in extended enclosures that provide
a panorama of wildlife. There are over 75 moated enclosures in the park. Enrichments in the form of ladders,
climbing materials, etc. are provided for the animals to move around the
enclosure freely.
Most of the exhibits in
the zoo lie along a circular road covering about 2.5 kilometers (1.6 mi).
Smaller mammals and other exhibits are located along three inner roads. The
park area is dotted with large open island-type enclosures and chain-link
fence, with camouflaged wet and dry moats, hidden walls, and simulated natural
environment for the residents of the park.
The remaining area makes
up the free-range zone—an open area which makes up the bulk of the park and
where animals such as deer and jackals are left to roam free. There are more
than 500 deer of different varieties and an equal number of jackals in the
free-range zone. In addition, there are four enclosures for deer—each housing
about 30 animals. Deer and jackals are found in equal numbers and are
known for their fast-breeding ability, especially in their natural environment.
The deer–jackal ratio is maintained by the 'natural method of
selection'—allowing the stronger ones to prey on the weaker ones—a natural way
of balancing the ecological system.
Otteri lake situated on
the north-western side within the park premises acts as a roosting ground for a
wide array of aquatic migratory birds such as the open-bill
stork, painted
stork, white
ibis, grey
heron, night
heron, cormorants, darters, egrets, dabchicks, pelicans, great pelicans, glossy
ibis and moorhen, making it a bird watchers' paradise. The 7-hectare
(17-acre) lake, surrounded by a variety of trees, receives the run-off water
from nearly half the area of the park and attracts a large number of migratory
birds in October, November, and December. Both terrestrial and aquatic birds of
about 70 species congregate here during the season. On average, around 10,000
migratory birds visit the lake each year. About 230 saplings of Barringtonia, a species native to mangrove habitats, have been
planted inside the lake to attract more birds.
Highlights
Safaris – On the
15 minute Lion Safari, you will be able to see Asiatic lions roaming freely in
their natural surroundings inside the safari area. The zoo also offers a Deer
Safari, a Gaur Safari and an Elephant Safari.
Aviary –
There are two aviaries in the zoo. The first is a walk-through that allows
visitors to enjoy the birds up close. This is a 1.5 acre large greenhouse
enclosure. The second is an open aviary where flamingos, sea gulls and other
birds can be seen in large numbers especially during winter months.
Reptiles –
With a total of 24 enclosures, the reptilian area houses over 104 snakes. The
king cobra, which is considered to be the most venomous and dangerous snake in
India is just one of the highlights.
Amphibians –
Interestingly, the Vandalur Zoo is the only one in India that has an amphibian
section. The tanks are impeccably maintained and you will see the common Indian
toad and rare Indian tree frogs.
Butterflies –
Spread over an area of 5 acres, this section of the zoo attracts many
butterflies due to the vast number of host plants. The blue tiger and lime
butterfly are some of the common species here.
Ostriches –
The Vandalur Zoo is one of the four zoos in India where you can find ostriches.
These flightless birds have been kept in a larger enclosure so they can run
more freely.
White Tigers –
There are a total of nine white tigers in this zoo. These humongous cats are
rare and are a pride of the zoo.
Crocodiles –
The zoo also has salt water crocodiles along with alligators and fresh water
crocodiles. In fact the zoo has over 220 crocodiles in all and has been able to
breed them successfully.
Primates –
This section of the zoo houses some very rare species of primates like the
capped languor of India and the lion tailed macaque.
Nocturnal Animals –
There are many nocturnal species housed in the zoo. Interestingly, their
natural body clock has been altered by the flow of light in their enclosures so
that visitors can see these animals active during the day.
Fish – The aquarium
building is as interesting as the species that are displayed inside. While some
fish are displayed in glass aquariums others are kept in open ponds.
Pre-historic Animal Park – This section of the zoo houses life sized
displays of pre-historic animals. The large replicas have been placed amongst
flora decoration to make it look real.
Otteri Lake
The Otteri Lake is
situated on the North western side of the Zoological Park beyond the Birds
enclosure. This lake receives the run-off water from nearly half the area
of the Zoological Park. If both the monsoons are normal, water will be
available throughout the year. A few years after the opening off the
Zoological Park, the migratory birds started arriving at the lake. Since
then the number of birds arriving to this lake has increased year after year.
The bird’s census conducted on January 2011 revealed the presence of 16 species
numbering 2374 birds.
Exhibits
The park has 81 enclosures
and more than 170 species of mammals, birds and reptiles, such as the barking
deer, blackbuck, sambar, Sangai, Nilgai, wolf, tiger, jaguar, panther, hogdeer, jackal, hyena, lion,giraffe, camel, otter, llama, elephant, and a number of monkey species such as Nilgiri
langur, lion-tailed macaque, baboon, Hanuman
langur and leaf-capped
langur.
There are about 46
endangered animals of the Western
Ghats, the Eastern
Ghats and the Indian subcontinent such as the Nilgiri
macaques, as well as other rare
species including monitor
lizard, chimpanzees, European brown bear, Muscovy duck, giraffe, Bengal
tiger, white
tiger, lemur, macaque, vulture, and star tortoises.
The park is also home to
exotic species such as the Australian flightless bird species of emu and cassowary. The park contains about 138 plant species,
including cashew and eucalyptus. The dense vegetation of the park supports about
56 species of butterfly.
Mammals
|
1. Asiatic Wild Ass
2. Savanna Baboon 3. European Brown Bear 4. Himalayan Black Bear 5. Sloth Bear 6. Binturong or Bear Cat 7. Blackbuck 8. Indian Wild Boar 9. Brown Capuchin 10. Common Palm civet Cat or Toddy Cat 11. Jungle Cat 12. Chimpanzee 13. Hog Deer 14. Spotted Deer or Chital 15. Dhole or Indian Wild Dog 16. Asian Elephant 17. Gaur 18. Nile Hippopotamus 19. Pigmy Hippopotamus 20. Striped Hyena 21. Jackal 22. Jaguar 23. Common Langur 24. Nilgiri Langur 25. Leopard or Panther 26. Asiatic Lion 27. Bonnet Macaque 28. Lion tailed Macaque 29. Rhesus Macaque 30. Muntjac or Barking Deer 31. Nilgai 32. Common Otter 33. Indian Porcupine 34. Sambar 35. Sangai 36. Indian Giant Squirrel 37. Tiger 38. Grant’s Zebra |
Birds
|
1. Cockatiel
2. White-crested Cockatoo 3. Little Cormorant 4. Demoiselle Crane 5. Sarus Crane 6. Darter or Snake-bird 7. Cattle Egret 8. Little Egret 9. Grey Heron 10. Night Heron 11. Pond Heron 12. White Ibis 13. Macaw 14. Grey partridge 15. Indian Peacock 16. Rosy Pelican 17. Spoonbill 18. Adjutant Stork 19. Painted Stork 20. White backed or Bengal Vulture |
Reptiles
|
1. Indian Cobra
2. King Cobra 3. Estuarine or Salt Water Crocodile 4. Mugger or Marsh Crocodile 5. Gharial 6. Checkered Keel back 7. Common Indian Krait 8. Common Monitor Lizard 9. Indian Rock Python 10. Reticulated Python 11. Common Rat Snake 12. Starred Tortoise 13. Russell’s Viper 14. Saw-scaled Viper |
Safaris
As part of the park's
development plan, safari parks for lion, gaur and deer have been created
on a hilly terrain covering an area of 70 hectares (170 acres), enabling the
visitors to see the animals in their natural habitats.
The lion park has been
developed in an area of 30 hectares (74 acres) at a cost of
about ₹ 2.358 million and is operational since October 1990 providing
the visitors a 15-min drive into the safari. The safari contains 15 animals and
these are involved in captive breeding. As the lions started forming
groups according to their instincts and compatibility, the zoo authorities
apportioned two small areas within the existing safari area in 2012, work on
which started in January 2012 at a cost of ₹ 600,000, enabling the
visitors to see one pride in the open forest area and the other two in the
newly created fenced yards. These enclosures had been created on a 160-sq m
area, with facilities such as rest shed and water trough. Each pride consists
of three to four animals.
The deer park was opened
in 2008. It covers 35 hectares (86 acres) and is home to more than 100
animals including sambar and spotted
deer.
Elephant Safari was introduced in the zoo in the summer of
2008, providing a ride on elephants for a tour around the zoo. The park is
the only place after Mudumalai in the Nilgiris that organizes elephant safari rides in the state.
There are 3 elephants in the park and 2 more have been brought from Mudumalai
to start the safari.
The park authorities plan
to create a new Indian Gaur safari in 2011 in part of the current lion safari
area. The lion safari has two geographical regions—hilly and plains. At
present, the lions move around in the plains region (about 12 hectares (30 acres)
of the 30-hectare (74-acre) total area) and are not allowed into the hilly
region. The proposed gaur safari would be created on the 18 hectares (44 acres)
of the hilly terrain. In 2007, a night safari project in the park was promoted with
two components, namely, an animal exhibit area and an entertainment area.
The night safari was being
established for providing opportunity to observe the natural wildlife behaviour
and activities in the night hours. Initially, it was expected to be implemented
during 2010–11 at a cost of ₹40.2 million. With the initially allocated
sum, the zoo authorities completed construction of enclosures for tiger,
elephant, Indian bison, sloth bear, spotted deer and sambar and a large number
of saplings were raised to be planted around the night safari area.
Nearly ₹ 78.7
million was spent on construction of the enclosures, surveying the lands,
perimeter wall and laying circular roads for the night safari. With delay in
getting funds from the Union Ministry, the project was put on hold and the zoo
prepared another proposal for ₹ 820 million for night safari in July
2011. However, this too was deferred by the state government.
Sanctuary Aviaries
Two aviaries at the zoo
were designed to imitate specific bird sanctuaries in Tamil
Nadu. The Point Calimere Aviary represents a
sanctuary on a bay on the Coromandel Coast of the District of Nagapattinam, where migratory birds including flamingos, seagulls, teals, storks and herons can be seen between October and February every
year. These species can be seen year-round in this aviary, where flamingos can
feed in the shallows while seagulls swim in deeper water.
The aviary has a small
island (about 30 square metres (320 sq ft)) with bushy vegetation,
and water covering about 110 square metres (1,200 sq ft). The Vedanthangal
Sanctuary Aviary represents a sanctuary located in the district of Kanchipuram. It is planted with gum
arabic tree, bamboo and other tree species which offer convenient
places for birds to rest. Birds such as white
ibis, painted
stork, night
heron and grey
heron are found here, and
baskets have been provided to facilitate breeding.
Walk-through Aviary
The terrestrial aviary was
opened in 1992, but was closed within a few years due to maintenance issues. It
was renovated and reopened in 2010 as the Bio Centre. This 1.5-acre
(0.61 ha) walk-through aviary cost about ₹ 2 million and is located on
a slope behind the tiger house (12.8823035°N
80.0913191°E). The aviary is the
biggest such facility in a zoo in the country.
The facility features
fifteen-metre-tall fences to facilitate free flight of birds within the area.
The aviary is home to about 245 birds of different species including Alexandrine parakeet, rose-ringed parakeet, blue
rock pigeon, common myna, Indian
koels, common
babbler, white-browed bulbul, francolin, red-vented
bulbul, red-whiskered bulbul, wagtail, pipit, orange-headed thrush, red-wattled lapwing, little
brown dove and spotted
dove.
The height of the aviary
ranges from 5 metres (16 ft) at the top of the slope to 12 metres
(39 ft) at the bottom, with the chain link 'roof' sloping downward from
west to east. The aviary is surrounded by a 1-metre (3 ft 3 in) wall,
and the four sides above this are covered with steel and blue-coloured nylon
net in order to provide an open-sky effect. The ground is floored by tiled
footpath lawned with Korean grass to maintain the humidity level. The moist
deciduous habitat supports 22 tree and shrub species.
Fruit-bearing trees such
as mango, pomegranate, guava, sapota (Sapodilla), jamoon, Singapore cherry and
chillies have been planted for the benefit of fruit-eating birds. Heaps of dry
leaves, dung, dry wood waste and rotten fruits have been provided for
insect-eating birds. The zoo has also set up a mud bath facility for the birds.
Palm trees with holes have been planted to facilitate natural breeding of
parakeets, and heaps of stones have been provided for ground-nesting birds. The
aviary also has fountains and water bodies for the birds.
Butterfly House
The butterfly house,
constructed at a cost of ₹ 6 million, has more than 25 host plants
and landscaped habitats, such as bushes, lianas, streams, waterfall and
rock-gardens, that attract many species of butterflies such as the common
Mormon, crimson rose, mottled emigrant, blue
tiger, evening
brown and lime
butterfly. A network of ponds
interconnected by streams maintains humidity in the area. The park covers an
area of 5 acres. The butterfly garden with an insect museum at the
entrance is set up by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural
University (TNAU), Coimbatore.
The insect museum has been
planned with an exhibit area comprising insect exhibits representing the most
common Indian species of all orders of insects both in the form of preserved
specimens and in the form of photographs.
Reptile House/Serpentarium
The reptile house or
the Serpentarium is built, at the cost of ₹ 0.4
million, in a twining snake-like model with entrance and exit points in
the snake's mouth and tail, respectively. The house was opened to public in the
year 1989 and has 24 enclosures exhibiting 4 species of poisonous and 10
species of non-poisonous snakes. It contains a total of 104 snakes, including
41 Indian pythons, 21 Burmese pythons and four cobras. The park has
initiated controlled breeding programme for Indian rock python.
Each vivarium has been
renovated by changing substratum and providing perch and hide outs. The top of
the opening in RCC roof is closed with transparent acrylic sheet to avoid rain
and the walled enclosure enables the snake to exhibit all natural behaviours.
The king cobra is scientifically kept and maintained in constant
temperature by providing air conditioning and hot spot.
Amphibian House
The park stands first in
the country for establishing an amphibian captive facility, and it is the only
zoo in the country to have amphibians on display. Locally available
species such as Indian tree frog (Polypedates maculatus), common Indian toad (Bufo melanasticus), Indian bull frog (Rana tigirina), Indian
cricket frog(Limnonectus limnocharis)
and Indian pond frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis) are exhibited at the
Amphibian Centre. A water-recycling system has been introduced to keep the
house clean, and plants have been planted inside each tank to add lushness.
Crocodile Enclosure
The park houses many
species of crocodiles such as the gharial, the marsh
crocodile, the salt water crocodile and the American spectacled
caiman. Except the Cuban
crocodile, the park has all other
six major varieties, namely, Indo-Pacific or the salt water crocodile, swamp
crocodile, Nile
crocodile of Africa, Orinoco
crocodile, Morelet's crocodile and American crocodile. The eight enclaves
for crocodiles comprise about 220 individuals, including 125 adult specimens
belonging to the six varieties. This includes two pairs of adult fresh water
crocodiles. Many of the species also breed here.
Primate House
The primate house includes
some unique endangered primate species like the lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri
langur, capped
langur and chimpanzee. The park is also the National Studbook Keeper for the
endangered lion-tailed macaque, nominated by the CZA. With the successful
execution of the Co-ordinated Captive Breeding Programme (CCBP), the park
accounts for around 36 percent of lion-tailed macaques in the country's zoos as
of 2011.
World of Nocturnal Animals
The nocturnal
animals section houses six species.
The biological rhythm and cycle of the animals has been modified so that they
are active during the day time and sleep during the night time.
Small Mammals House
The newly constructed
Small Mammals House has animals such as the grizzled giant squirrel and the Malayan giant squirrel. The zoo also houses many small carnivores and animals
of the Western Ghats.
Aquarium
The shark-modelled
aquarium, with its entrance and exit points in the form of gills of the shark,
is set amidst a pond and houses 31 species of fresh-water fishes. The pond
surrounding the aquarium too has different varieties of fishes.
Other Sections
Other sections in the zoo
include the prey–predator concept enclosures (tiger–sambar), Prehistoric Animal
Park with life-size models of prehistoric animals and insectarium complex,
apart from an interpretation centre, zoo school and children's park. The zoo
school, opened in 2000, has formulated conservation, education and awareness
programmes for academics and general public that includes teacher training, zoo
outreach and volunteers programmes, such as Zoo Club Volunteer Programme and
Animal Keepers Training Programme. The zoo also has a library with a collection of wildlife-related
books. The library functions twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays.
Captive Breeding
The Central Zoo Authority
of India (CZA) has identified the park as coordinating zoo for the breeding
programmes for endangered species as per the National Zoo Policy adopted by
the Government of India in 1988, which states that the main objective of
zoos will be to complement and strengthen national efforts in the conservation
of the country's rich biodiversity and that the species which have no chance of
survival in the wild would be bred under ex-situ conditions. The park has a
high rate of success in captive
breeding of lion-tailed macaques.
In 2010, the zoo had 22
lion-tailed macaques, from a breeding pair that were brought to the zoo in
1983. The park is also successful in breeding other rare species in
captivity, including ostrich, Asian
palm civet, Indian gaur, wild
dog, Asiatic
lion, Nilgiri
langur, Sangai, hippo, Malabar giant squirrel, white
tiger, Asiatic wolf, panther and bison. The zoo is among four in the country to have an
ostrich. The park also undertakes cross-breeding as part of its conservation efforts.
The park is also a
participating zoo of the CZA for the captive breeding of rock python, Nilgiri
langur, lion-tailed macaque, Asiatic lion, wild dog, Asiatic wolf, and
gaur. The zoo also promotes exterior conservation—conservation of rare
species in their natural habitat—whereby individuals born in the zoo are
released in the wild after adequate training, as per the guidelines of the CZA.
Other Facilities
The park has tree-lined
paved paths for long treks inside the campus, enabling the visitors to walk 15
to 20 kilometers (9.3 to 12.4 mi) during a visit. Battery-operated vehicles with a range of up to 80 kilometers (50 mi)
are available for rent. There are about 9 such vehicles in addition to the 4
battery-operated vans used for the lion safari and 4 diesel-run road
rails used for going around the zoo, and the zoo plans to purchase
more.
Each vehicle can carry 15
to 20 people, and each trip takes about an hour. A trial program of 20 rental
bicycles for visitors, including 5 for children, was launched in 2008 as an
eco-friendly option intended to reduce demand for the battery-operated
cars. An e-bike facility was also inaugurated on 20 February 2010.
Refreshment outlets
include a snack bar run by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development
Corporation (TTDC), an ice
cream parlour and a soft drinks counter—all near the entrance. The park also
maintains 16 toilets and nearly two dozen drinking fountains within the
premises for the visitors. The zoo is open to public from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
except on Tuesdays, when the zoo carries out weekly maintenance works. All the
animals, especially the big
cats, are back in their cages after 5.00 pm and most
tourists prefer to visit them before going on to the other exhibits. The
zoo has a guest house located on Kelambakkam Road.
The zoo is fenced on all
sides by means of the perimeter wall. The zoo security is mainly carried out by
the forest subordinate staff of rangers, foresters and forest guards along with
zoo security staff, who conduct regular patrolling of animal enclosures, stores
and other buildings. Night security is carried out under the command of one
range officer and other subordinates. The zoo has also employed private
security personnel. From 1 December 2010, four persons from a private security
service have been deployed along with forest rangers for night patrolling.
In July 2013, ambulance
facility, equipped with an oxygen cylinder, pulse monitor, critical care
monitor, stretcher, surgical tools, small cages, tranquilizing darts and
emergency medicines, for animals inside the premises was inaugurated.
Renovation
In February 2011, the zoo
began construction of a large new tiger cage at a cost of
about ₹ 200,000, and the new cage will be linked to the existing one.
The existing enclosure measures 26.64 feet in height, length and width. The new
cage will be 13 metres (43 ft) tall at its highest point and 11 metres
(36 ft) wide, enough for four adult tigers at a time. It will have
separate entries for the animal keeper and the animals. Illuminated by
solar-powered lights, it will have a sloping roof and good
ventilation. There are 18 tigers in the zoo, 9 of which are white tigers.
For the first time since
the shifting of the zoo from Park Town in 1979, the park underwent a major
renovation in 2011, costing ₹ 32.5 million. The renovated
entrance was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, J.
Jayalalithaa, on 19 June 2012. The new
6-m wide entrance features 250-m long, 2.7-m high brick-and-granite wall, with
43 mural relief sculptures representing different animals in the zoo and a 12-m
fenced lawn. The main entrance tower is 10.5 m tall, with two adorning
structures 8.5 m each on either side.
Other additions include
huge lawns covering nearly 300 m on both sides of the entrance, tiled
floors, an interpretation centre (similar to the one at the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary) with LED displays at the entrance, additional ticket
counters, and a souvenir shop selling memorabilia like T-shirts and artifacts
showcasing the flora and fauna of the sub-continent. The new entrance also
features 20 computerized ticket counters to handle huge crowds.
The zoo authorities are in
the process of restoring and renovating the approach road to Otteri Lake, located
inside the zoo. Post-monsoon, the lake attracts many migratory birds, and the
lake could act as an ideal spot to view birds at close quarters. Hence, a
bird's viewpoint is being built to encourage bird watching.
Visitors
During April 2010–March 2011,
the zoo received nearly 1,810,846 visitors, as against 1,187,904 visitors in
2006–2007. In November 2010, the total revenue was ₹ 46.9
million, against ₹ 40.2 million during October 2009. There has
been an increase of more than 200,000 visitors in 2010 compared to 2009, and
the park had recorded a 21 percent increase in the number of visitors.
The number of visitors rises
to the peak on the Kaanum Pongal day, a day in the festival season of
mid-January, when the visitor count goes up to 63,000 on a single day. About
57,000 visitors arrived on the Kannum Pongal day of 2009, resulting in revenue
of ₹ 1.015 million. It was 56,555 in 2010 and 57,217 in 2011.
The all-time record of 63,000 visitors a day was registered on the Kannum
Pongal day of 2012, resulting in revenue of ₹ 1.1 million.
The number of visitors to
the zoo is steadily growing by an estimated 10 to 15 percent every year.
Visitor Amenities
The Zoo is opened to
public on all days except Tuesdays. Visitors can pay a nominal amount and
utilize the zoo rounds vehicles and Lion safari vans. Battery operated vehicles
can also be hired. For the visitors, facilities such as drinking water, toilets, tiled
sitting benches and rest sheds are provided at several places inside the
zoological park. Restaurant, canteen, milk parlour and tea stall are being run
by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, Aavin and Tan tea.
Directional maps and
signages have been provided on junctions in order to guide the visitors for
proper routes and directions. White arrow marks painted on the roads guide the
visitors to different enclosures.
Zoo receives visitors all
the year round, the numbers of visitors is more on Saturdays, Sundays and
festival days. Visitations are maximum in January and May. Number of visitors
is increasing every year and on an average 5000 visitors visit the zoo every
day.
Arignar Anna Zoological
Park is one of the modern and scientifically managed zoos of the country with
257 full time staff apart from petty contract workers. The Zoological Park is
the pride of the State and has attained excellence in the Conservation Breeding
Programme for endangered species and creating awareness about the conservation
of natural resources.
The functions of the zoo
are carried out by several departments/sections namely Administration, Animal
welfare, Commissary (Stores), Transport, Research, Education and Awareness,
Veterinary, Horticulture, Security and Sanitation. The zoo has a well-equipped
zoo kitchen, zoo hospital and quarantine facilities. A zoo school was opened in
the year 2000 for the teachers, students and general public, where regular zoo
education and conservation programmes are conducted. The zoo has adequate
number of vehicles to transport visitors to the animal enclosures through the
network of internal roads.
Programmes & Activities
The park has a zoo club,
comprising college students, which was formed in 1997. The club helps keep the
premises clean, and the members also conduct educational programmes and carry
out patrols.
Following the death of a
llama at the park after swallowing a plastic bag, plastic materials have been
banned inside the park premises. Visitors are frisked at the entrance to
restrict all plastic goods. The members of the zoo club are 98 percent
successful in controlling the entry of plastic materials inside the park. The
zoo also plans to introduce 'Friends of the Zoo' programme in line with the
National Zoo Policy, prepared by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests
in 1998.
The park launched a zoo
newsletter in 2000 to serve as a source of current news and developments in the
park. Efforts are being made to publish the newsletter at regular intervals.
From 22 to 24 September
2000, the park conducted a workshop for keeping and breeding amphibians in
captivity for the first time in India.
The park, along with
the Chennai Snake Park, Madras Crocodile Bank and the Mysore
Zoo, is slated to become a nodal point for captive breeding
of endangered pythons in the country, especially the Indian rock python (Python molurus)
and reticulated python (Python reticulatus).
In 2007, the zoo started
to construct a separate breeding enclosure for the lion-tailed macaque,
proposing to bring under Foreign Animal Exchange Programme. The enclosure was built
at a cost of ₹ 1.6 million at a silent, remote place in the park to
provide a natural habitat for the animals and to ensure breeding. The total
enclosure measures about 3,000 sq m, including three rooms with about
250 sq ft. Three pairs of macaque could be kept in these rooms. The
habitat is planted with fruit-bearing trees, including gooseberry and mangoes.
In July 2008, the world's
first non-invasive birth
control surgery on mugger
crocodiles was performed in the park by the surgeons of the Madras Veterinary College to control breeding and inbreeding.
In September 2008, the
park initiated Adopt an Animal, an animal adoptation programme, which has
seen a few takers so far in the state, with less than 20 sponsors, mostly
individuals and companies, coming forward. The first adoptation began with
adopting a spotted deer, a peacock, two lovebirds and a parrot in June
2009. The park has received funds to a tune of ₹ 2.3 million
from individuals and organisations for adopting animals between August 2010 and
March 2011.
The park has developed an
informative and illustrative guide in collaboration with the Centre for Environment
Education (CEE), Ahmedabad, providing zoo ethics and comprehensive information
including road map to the animal enclosures and visitor amenities.
In 2012, for the first
time in the country, the park adopted 'social grouping' of animals in
captivity, where members of same species would be kept together, to showcase
how they interact in groups.
In March 2013, a blood
transfusion performed on a 10-year-old hyena by a four-member team of doctors
in the zoo, marking the first successful blood transfusion done for a wild
species in an Indian zoo.
Animal Care
Owing to its vastness and
round-the-clock availability of animal medical care facilities, most of the
rescued animals in the state, especially elephants, are brought to the
park. With Chennai serving, unfortunately, as a transit point for wildlife
smugglers in Southeast Asian countries, the zoo also receives many recovered
endangered species for rehabilitation. The three important captive
management practices of the zoo that contributed to the longevity of animals
include environment enrichment, psychological well-being and animal husbandry
and veterinary care.
There has been a
considerable reduction in the mortality rate of animals in captivity at the
park. Between April 2010 and March 2011, only 22 animals were reported dead, of
which 9 died due to old age and the remaining owing to other health-related
problems and infighting. Incidents of infighting, although rare, have been
reported in the park.
With the guidance provided
by the CZA, kraals—fencing of a portion of the moated enclosure—were created in
the herbivore enclosures in 2003 in order to isolate and treat sick or wounded
animal. Herbivores with physical problems are isolated in the facility to be
checked by the vets. One of the corners of the enclosure is chosen mainly to
keep visitors away from the treated animals. Kraals have been created in the
enclosures of spotted deer, blackbuck, Sambar, Nilgai, barking deer, hog deer,
brow-antlered deer, moufflon and bison.
To make the animals get
accustomed to the kraal, the feed is kept inside the premises. Apart from
treating animals, the kraal also acts as a place for isolating animals in rut.
For example, during mating season, males often fight with each other leading to
problems for the veterinarians. To overcome this, the males are kept in kraals
in isolation from other males. Kraals also help research scholars in observing
and recording the movement and other activities of the animal, thus helping
with studying their behaviourial pattern.
The zoo also has a zoo
kitchen, zoo hospital and quarantine facility. Every day, about 190 kg of
non-perishable food items, 300 kg of perishable foods, 750 kg of beef
and fish, 430 kg of cattle feed and 2,000 kg of fodder are being provided
to the zoo inmates. A rat-breeding centre has been constructed near the store
house to cater the needs of snakes. The fodder bank raised in the zoo premises
fulfils the fodder requirement of the herbivores population in the park. The
zoo orchard with trees such as mango, guava, and coconut supplies fruits for the park's daily requirement.
Rescue & Rehabilitation
Centre
With the banning of
training and exhibition of five species of animals, namely, lion, tiger, panther, bear and monkey enforced by the Government of India in 1998, a 92.45-hectare (228.4-acre) rescue
and rehabilitation centre for animals was established next to the zoo with the
assistance of the CZA in 2001. The area was acquired from the research wing of
the Tamil Nadu Forest Department in continuity with the fodder bank of the zoo
with an assistance of ₹ 14.598 million.
The centre provides
temporary and long-term care for confiscated and abandoned endangered animals,
such as lions and tigers rescued from circuses, and is home to about 32 lions
and 7 tigers. It has a capacity to house 40 lions and 20 tigers. It
also has a reptile house and an aviary. The park is one of the five zoos
in the country identified and funded by the CZA for the rehabilitation of
circus animals. The rehabilitation centre is not open to the visitors.
The Central Government
banned the performance and exhibition of five species of animals namely Tiger,
Lion, Panther, Bear and monkeys in 1998 and requested seven State Governments
to set up Rescue and Rehabilitation center. A Rescue centre in Arignar Anna
Zoological Park was planned for 40 Lions and 20 Tigers apart from other animals
during the year 2000-2001.
Now it is having 28 lions
and 6 tigers. The paddock areas and animal cells are being cleaned daily.
Repairing of ropes, Chain links and paintings are being carried out in
periodical manner. Seven kg of beef along with 150 grams of liver for each is
being provided to Lions and Tigers housed at Rescue centre. The health and
hygiene of animals are being attended by a full time veterinarian and a
Forester appointed especially for rescued animals. The total expenditure of
maintaining rescue centre is being met by Central Zoo Authority.
Zoo Veterinary Hospital
The zoo veterinary
hospital is responsible for disease prevention and health care management of
the park's captive population. The hospital has a well-equipped operation
theatre, in-patient ward, radiology unit, laboratory, clinical room, pathology
room, quarantine facilities and convalescent yard fully functional to cater the
needs of complete animal health care. It also includes a modern diagnostic
laboratory with facility for periodic coprological examination, identification
of causative organism, antibiotic sensitivity, pregnancy diagnosis,
haematology, serology and urinalysis.
Arignar Anna Zoological
Park has three Veterinarians, one Veterinary Officer and two Veterinary
Assistant Surgeons. Veterinary care is being given prime importance in any
modern Zoological Park. An elaborate record keeping system, modern lab,
equipment, practice of preventive veterinary medicine, close supervision of
each and every animal enclosure, balanced diet, early diagnosis aspects has
enabled the zoo to control and manage animal diseases. The well equipped and
developed veterinary hospital complex consists of an operation theatre with
necessary facilities.
Minor operations are being
done in this operation room for animals and birds whenever required. An
inpatient ward with an inbuilt squeeze cage is attached to the hospital to
treat the sick animals for intensive care. An X-ray room, clinical lab, kitchen
(for preparing sick animal diet), Auto –analyzer and a class room are also
available in the hospital complex.
Animal Adoption Programme
To create love, affection,
compassion and kindness among public towards animals, the animal adoption
programme was launched at AAZP. The feeding cost of Zoo inmates per day
have been calculated and published. According to the paying capability of
the public one can adopt any animal species for any number of days, weeks,
months and years. So far 61 individuals, Private companies, Govt.
undertaking Banks have come forward to adopted different species of animals
during the financial year 2010-2011 and an amount of Rs 23.00 lakhs has been
obtained.
Education, Interpretation
& Training
One of the main objectives
of this Zoological Park is Wildlife education for the purpose of creating
awareness in the minds of visiting public for better understanding and
appreciation of Wildlife and its role in Eco-system. Keeping this in mind the
Education wing has one Range Officer and three Biologists, who educate the
public through the display of animals and plant models, stuffed specimens,
interpretative boards and charts.
For this purpose there is
an information centre near the entrance. A novel training programme named
“junior zoo keepers / be with animals a day” for school children has been
conducted in the month of October, 2010. Six groups numbering 25 children with
the teacher participated in each programme from Aqua Nature Club, Velachery,
Shalom Mat.Hr.Sec.School, Vandalur; Sankara Vidhyalaya Matric School,
Oorapakkam Adi Dravidar Welfare Govt.Hr.Secondary School, Kilampakkam and
Govt.Hr.Sec.School, Otteri.
SPARKS training programme
for Zoo Vets and Biologists of South Indian Zoos has been conducted at AAZP,
Vandalur in collaboration with Central Zoo Authority, New Delhi and B.S.Abdul
Rahman University from 22nd November to 26th November 2010. “Basic biology of
Zoo animals and its captive care” programme has been organized for 350 field
staff of AAZP, Vandalur, Childrens Park, Guindy; Vedanthangal Birds Sanctuary
and Pulicat Lake. The field Veterinarians of 110 Nos. who are working nearby
wildlife Reserves have been invited and imparted training at AAZP to handle man
animal conflict and their role in the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife.
Research
The zoo is an excellent
Ex-situ conservation centre and offers opportunity to conduct Research on
animal behavior, nutrition, reproduction and Veterinary care. Perception of
people on conservation of the natural resources can be collected from the
visitors the zoo. Research scholars from different forestry institutions and
Post Graduate students of different Universities are conducting Research
programmes for their academic qualification (M.sc., M.Phil, B.V.Sc., M.V.Sc.,
and Ph.d.,)
Co-Ordinated Captive
Breeding Programme
Lion Tailed Macaque:
Lion tailed macaque is one
of the most critically endangered species indigenous to the tropical rain
forests of the Western Ghats in South west India. The maintenance of viable
population of endangered species representing their genetic viability in the
wild is a major goal of the Zoological Park. In order to safe guard this
species Arignar Anna Zoological Park, submitted a project on conservation
breeding programme for LTM in collaboration with SACON, WII and other South
Indian zoos Viz., Mysore zoo and Trivandrum zoo to the Central Zoo Authority
for funding the project.
The proposal envisaged
establishment of five social groups in 3 zoos, designing of appropriate
enclosure and monitoring social behavioral and reproductive health of the group
and training of zoo personal. The project has been approved by the CZA. Two off
exhibit water moated enclosures have been built for Lion tailed macaque away
from the visitor area to promote natural behavior and fit for reintroduction
programme. The zoo is having 23 animals of which 9 males, 12 females and 2
infants.
Nilgiri Langur:
This species has also been
designated to Arignar Anna Zoological Park as species coordinator. It is the
only zoo where regular breeding is ensured. At present the park is holding 18 animals.
Nilgiri Tahr:
This species has also been
designated to Arignar Anna Zoological Park as species co-coordinator. No animal
is available in the Park. Steps have been initiated to procure the animals.
Apart from that White tiger had given birth of 3 cubs which were named by Tamil
Nadu Government as Sembian, Valli and Indira. Similarly Wild dogs are also
breeding regularly. This year two pups have been separated and hand reared by
us successfully.
One Lion cub has also been
hand reared due to the problems from its mother. The Ostrich first time in the
country naturally brooded six eggs and all successfully hatched. Many species
like Bison, Deer species, Painted stork, Night heron, Egrets, Ibis, Grey heron
and Grey Pelicans are regularly breeding.
Zoo Authority of Tamilnadu
(ZAT)
In order to facilitate
supervision, control, maintenance and management of Arignar Anna Zoological
Park, Vandalur and Children's Park, Guindy, the Government of Tamilnadu have
constituted Zoo Authority of Tamilnadu in the G.O.Ms.No.314 E & F (FR-V)
Department dated: 03.12.2004 under Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975.
The Zoo Authority of
Tamilnadu is functioning under the guidance of Governing Board. The Government
of Tamilnadu is giving funds to meet out the salaries of all staff and workers.
Other expenditure like maintenance of animal enclosures, feed for animals,
animal health care, cleanliness of zoo, drainage, water supply, electricity and
maintenance of battery operated vehicles (BOV) are met from the income generated
from the zoo.
The major revenue of the
zoo is realized from the entry fees. Arignar Anna Zoological Park is also
getting money from BOV charges, the leased parking area, Hotel Tamil Nadu,
Aavin, TANTEA, bicycles and toilet lease. The amount generated from the entry
fees and other revenue is deposited in the account of Zoo Authority of
Tamilnadu. The annual budget of Arignar Anna Zoological Park and Children's
Park, Guindy is approved by the Governing Board for development and maintenance
works of the parks. Once the Governing Board approve the works, in anticipation
of the Government order the works will be executed.
The funds released by the
Central Zoo Authority towards new development works, maintenance of the rescue
centre and funds received from Non-Governmental and Government agencies are
deposited in the Zoo Authority of Tamilnadu account.
The Governing Board of Zoo
Authority of Tamilnadu has been reconstituted on 06-03-2013 to administer the
zoological parks more efficiently in G.O. (Ms) No. 23 Environment and Forests
(FR5) Department dated 06-03-2013 as below:
1
|
Hon’ble Chief Minister
of Tamilnadu
|
— Chairperson
|
2
|
Hon’ble Minister for
Forest
|
— Vice-Chairperson
|
3
|
The
Secretary to Government, Environment and Forests Department
|
— Member
|
4
|
The Secretary to
Government, Finance Department (or) his representative
|
— Member
|
5
|
The Secretary to
Government, Animal Husbandry Department
|
— Member
|
6
|
The Principal Chief
Conservator of Forests, Tamilnadu
|
— Member
|
7
|
Vice-Chancellor, Tamil
Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai
|
— Member
|
8
|
Director, Department of
Environment
|
— Member
|
9
|
Commissioner, Tourism
Department
|
— Member
|
10
|
Chief Wildlife Warden,
Tamil Nadu
|
— Member
|
11
|
The Director, Arignar
Anna Zoological Park
|
— Member Secretary
|
The Government have also
issued orders in the above G.O. to include all recognized zoos in Tamilnadu
controlled initially by Forest Department viz., Kurumbapatti Zoological Park –
Salem, Amirthi Zoo – Vellore and Trichy Zoo – Tiruchirapalli under overall
ambit of the Zoo Authority of Tamilnadu to facilitate development and
maintenance of all the zoos in a self sustaining manner by receiving and
utilizing funds from different Government and Non-Government sources. It will
also ensure smooth animal exchange, better technical guidance and efficient zoo
administration with following objectives:
·
To develop and maintain
the Arignar Anna Zoological Park and Children’s Park, Guindy in a self
sustaining manner by receiving and utilizing the funds from Central and State
Government etc., for the development of the zoo.
· To create understanding
and awareness about the rich faunal diversity through zoo education and
interpretation programme.
· To undertake research on
various aspect of the wild animals including captive breeding of species.
·
To procure such animals as
are required for the enrichment of the zoo by purchase or exchange from other
states in India or from abroad.
· The Zoo Authority of Tamil
Nadu will be the apex technical advisory body for the other zoos in Tamil Nadu
and will also help in the animal collection and exchange programmes of the
zoos.
The Zoo Authority of
Tamilnadu administered by the Governing Board meets at least once in six
months. The Governing Board shall have all powers and perform all such
functions as are necessary for achievement and furtherance of objectives of the
society. The Governing Board shall also approve details of plan and
proposals for the development of the zoological parks. The Governing Board may
also delegate rights, powers and duties as are considered necessary to the
Member Secretary.
Administration
The Zoological Park is
under the control of Director in the rank of Chief Conservator of Forests
supported by one Additional Director, one Deputy Director and two Assistant
Director. Besides that, 27 ministerial staff, 39 field staff (inclusive of
drivers) and 172 permanent workers are working under various categories. Apart
from the regular staff, contract laborers are also engaged. One Veterinary
Officer and two Veterinary Assistant Surgeons head the Veterinary department
with two Veterinary attendants. The work of Education, interpretation and
Research is assigned to the three Biologists of the zoo.
Animal Welfare
The Veterinary hospital
with all modern facilities like mobile x ray unit, Blood analyzer, Incubator,
Deep freezer, computer, inpatient and outpatient ward, quarantine facilities,
operation theatre, Microbiology Lab, Post-mortem facilities and incinerator
have been provided and it is one of the modern Veterinary health care centers
in Chennai. The zoo Veterinarians scan the animals for illness and disease
daily and take preventive action.
The zoo provides
appropriate feed, clean drinking water and hygienic enclosures. All enclosures
have been enriched with enriched with swings, ropes and perches to increase
their natural behavior. Similarly the bird enclosures have been provided with
nest boxes during breeding season to promote breeding aspects. Green shade nets
have been provided at walk through aviaries to beat summer. All food items are
checked every day by the Zoo veterinarians and Biologists to ensure quality and
quantity before distributing to various animal enclosures.
Commissary (Stores)
The feed for the animals
comprised of perishable and non-perishable items, which are procured and
delivered to the store for distribution to the animal enclosures. The
perishable items which are supplied daily are first washed and cleaned and then
in the zoo kitchen they re cut and dressed in presentable form for being fed to
the animals.
A well-equipped zoo
kitchen with a cold storage and deep freezer is available in the zoo for
storing food items. Wash basins, Fly catcher, Separate rooms for receiving
perishable and non perishable food items and fly proof doors for proper closing
of beef cutting room have also been provided.
Non-perishable food items
of 190 kg, Perishable foods of 300 kg, beef & fish of 750 kg, Cattle feed
of 430 kg and fodder of 2000 kg are being provided to zoo animals every day. A
Rat breeding centre created near the Store house caters the needs of snakes.
Horticulture
Arignar Anna Zoological
Park has established fodder bank, fruit orchard, coconut grooves, beautiful
lawns and gardens. All along the sides of the network of the roads and in the
Rest areas, lawns have been developed to increase the aesthetic beauty of the
zoo. Trees have been planted in all the available gaps to give a continuous
canopy and provide shelter from the summer heat to the visitor and also enrich
the general environment for the animals.
The fodder requirement of
the Herbivores population in the zoo is entirely met from the fodder bank
raised in the zoo premises, which supplies about 2000 kgs of fodder daily. A
good quantity of fruits is made available from the zoo orchard where Mango,
Guava, and Coconut trees have been raised. The enclosures of Elephant and
Sambar are enriched by planting seedlings of Bamboos, Neem, Aal, Arasu etc. In
the fodder bank more leaf giving banana trees have been planted to feed the
herbivores especially the elephant.
Sanitation
The zoo generates
considerable amount of Bio waste which is generally degradable and this is
collected from different enclosures and dumped in the garbage decomposition
yard. The converted compost is utilized as manure for the fodder bank and for
regeneration and maintenance of lawns and trees. A team comprised of 4 people
collects the garbage and is being transported by a Tractor to the dump yard
every day.
The visitors are being
screened at the entrance for plastics. The Plastics are replaced with paper
bags. The biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes are separated and
carefully dumped in the waste disposable decomposition yard. The decomposed
manures are being used for enrichment of fodder bank and other planting works.
All the waste recycled
from Hippopotamus and Aviaries are properly utilized for irrigation purpose.
The feeds are carried in green plastic tub and wastes are carried away by red
bins. The raised Stainless steel feed and water troughs are being provided to
all herbivores with roofed sheet to avoid contamination of food.
Security
The 602 ha zoo is having
priceless property and rare and endangered animals. The zoo security is mainly
looked after by the Forest sub-ordinate staff comprising of Rangers, Foresters
and Forest guards along with Zoo security staff. The zoo is bounded by wall on
all sides. Regular patrolling of animal enclosures, stores and other buildings
is conducted by the security staff and special night patrol parties are
deployed to safeguard the zoo property. Night security is being carried out
under the head of one Range officer and other subordinates every day.
Animal Stock in the Zoo
The details of live stock
in the zoo is furnished below
S.No
|
Class
|
No. of species
|
No. of animals
|
1
|
Mammals
|
46
|
404
|
2
|
Birds
|
74
|
762
|
3
|
Reptiles
|
32
|
313
|
Total
|
152
|
1479
|
Special Works
The Government sanctioned
Rs 325 lakhs for face lift of the Entrance. Murals, Ticket counter, Lawns,
Parking area, Auditorium, Interpretation centre and Children’s park have been
developed and the facility was inaugurated to public by the Hon'ble Chief
Minister of Tamilnadu. Similarly the Department of Tourism, government of Tamil
Nadu (India) sanctioned Rs 500 lakhs for development of Butterfly Park and
works are in progress.
Conservation
Water management
This park requires 6.00
Lakhs liters of water per day to meet the demand towards the cleaning of 85
animal houses, providing drinking water to the animals, visitors, staff
members, filling up wet moats and irrigating the fodder bank, fruit orchard,
hedges and lawns. Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board is supplying about
2.00 to 3.00 Lakhs liters of water daily from the Palar river water source and
the balance quantity is met from 13 open wells and 2 bore wells situated inside
the Zoological Park.
The Park is having 11 kV
sub stations to provide uninterrupted power supply. An amount of Rs.10.00 lakhs
per year is paid to the Tamil Nadu Water supply and drainage Board towards
water charges. During summer seasons, this park faces water scarcity due to low
yield in the wells and reduction in supply of water from Palar river water
source. Steps are being taken to augment water supply by sinking more wells and
open well at different places inside the park.
Power Management
As of 2012, the zoo uses a
lone 100-kV generator to meet the power shortage. The zoo has proposed to buy
another 100-kV generator at a cost of ₹ 800,000.
In 2011, to save power and
increase safety, solar powered lights were installed in 14 enclosures at the park
at a cost of ₹ 200,000. The lion safari (old and new) and enclosures
for white tigers, panthers, bears, hyenas, chimpanzee, a pair of lions, jackal,
wild dog, owl, sloth bear, and brown bear are lit by solar power for about
three hours every evening. Each system includes a solar panel and a 250-kv
battery connected to a 33-volt bulb and can supply power for up to 8 hours.
Heat Management
The soaring temperature in
Chennai, especially during summer, demands extra care for residents of the zoo.
Fortunately, the temperature inside the zoo campus is a couple of degrees lower
than outside any time of the year, primarily due to the lush greenery. The
park also maintains an exclusive summer management schedule.
All animal enclosures have
thatched roofs and fresh river sand spread on the floor to make it cooler for
the animals. Water is sprinkled on the sand to provide extra cooling. Roofs of
water birds' enclosures are covered with coconut leaves and wet gunny
bags. Caves that are exposed directly to the sun are put under a shower
twice a day.
The enclosure for
the king cobra has an air conditioner in order to provide an
environment similar to its natural habitat as the species cannot withstand the
summer heat. For birds, the topmost part of the cage is covered with jute
bags, and water is sprinkled three times a day.
Based on the temperature,
cucumber, buttermilk, apple and banana are also served to herbivores. The
zoo has also set up sprinklers to help animals beat the summer heat and is
planning to set up about 20 more sprinklers at the deer safari.
In 2011, to increase the
green cover, the forest department initiated to plant 25,000 saplings in the
zoo.
Incidents
In January 2002, when
a panther from the Vandalur reserve forest entered into the
zoo premises, the zoo was closed for over 45 days to facilitate search for the
animal. After several attempts, the animal was finally trapped, and it was
named after the zoo keeper, Arumugam, who first noticed the feline in the trap
cage and alerted his superiors.
On 12 November 2007, a
13-ft long reticulated python was found in a ventilator inside the pygmy hippopotamus enclosure in the zoo. According to the zoo
officials, the rescued python could have escaped from its enclosure, when it
was young, 4 to 5 years ago. When the workers tried to take the reptile, it bit
one of the animal keepers, but since it was a non-poisonous one, the animal
keeper was not harmed fatally and was provided treatment for the injury. The
reptile was feeding on small mammals, roaming freely inside the zoo, which
helped it survive without any problem.
On the night of 10 July
2010, three sand boas (Eryx johnii), out of five in the enclosure, were
reported stolen from the zoo.
In January 2011, 50 birds
died under dubious circumstances in the park within a month. Later, postmortem
report found that they were poisoned.
In September 2011, a
nine-feet-long Burmese
python was reported missing
from its enclosure at the Serpentarium. The animal keeper forgot to close the
channel connecting the snake's enclosure with an outlet outside with a piece of
wood after the weekly clean-up, and the python had managed to crawl out. On 5
December 2011, after about 3 months, the animal was found in the bushes near
the enclosure after swallowing a chicken kept near the enclosure as bait.
A three-year-old male
white tiger succumbed to injuries suffered during a fight with its potential
mate, a nine-year-old royal Bengal tigress, on 7 August 2013. The tigress, also
severely injured following the fight. Deep wounds in the brain had resulted in
the tiger’s death. The incident came as a blow to officials at the Arignar Anna
Zoological Park in Vandalur, who have been trying to prevent in-breeding among
white tigers and strengthen the species gene through cross breeding. Christened
by former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi in September 2010, the deceased white
tiger, Sembian, was paired with a nine-year-old royal Bengal tigress, Sathya, a
few months ago.
Future
In 2012, a wild-life
research institute was proposed to be built inside the park at an expense
of ₹ 342.4 million. This institute will be further developed in three
years with the estimate totaling ₹ 743.7 million, with centres for
ecological education and awareness, wildlife forensic research, and herbivores
and carnivores field research.
In 2012, a turtle-shaped
building was planned at an estimated cost of ₹ 400,000 to house
various types of turtles in the park.
In February 2013, Chief
Minister Jayalalithaa ordered to establish a wildlife research centre at the
Park at a cost of ₹ 271.3 million. The centre will house eight
research laboratories, including a nature education and awareness centre,
wildlife forensic science research centre, and field research centres for
herbivorous and carnivorous animals and will have two scientists, four junior
researchers and two assistant veterinary doctors.
The centre would cost the
government an annual continuing expense of ₹ 2.699 million. The
foundation stone for the research centre, which will be located opposite the
main campus, was laid on 15 March 2013. The construction work is expected
to be completed by mid-2014.
In July 2013, the public
works department (PWD) was expected to begin work on a butterfly park in the
zoo, an initiative sanctioned in 2001. The park is being constructed at a cost
of ₹ 50 million. The caterpillar-shaped park with a landscaped
habitat, nectar gardens, a walking bridge, pathways for visitors, breeding and
rearing centres, and rock gardens will be built on 2.5 hectares, including the
actual built-up area of 2,000 sq ft near the Otteri Lake.
The park has a network of
ponds interconnected by streams to maintain humidity level. The caterpillar
design was chosen because the 60-ft-long tube-like structure made of acrylic
sheets, which will keep the inside of the building cool by absorbing less heat.
The park will have more than 40 Indian species, including the common leopard,
blue Mormon, yellow pansy, red Helen, and common Jezebel. Apart from local
butterfly species, the park will host at least 80 exotic species of butterflies
including the four-barred swordtail from Australia, the common
savanna bush brown from South
Africa, the Australian painted lady and the Danaid
egg fly. The park will have a
capacity to accommodate at least 100 persons at any given time and is expected
to be ready by September 2013.
In 2013, a forest and
wildlife museum was planned at the zoo, for which a budget of ₹ 2
million has been earmarked by the state forest ministry,
including ₹ 500,000 for preparing display
furniture, ₹ 200,000 for labelling, special light arrangements and
fans, and ₹ 1.3 million for the collection and preparation of
materials, a herbarium, xylarium, entomological collection, portraits, soil and
rock collections and artifacts. The museum will be built near the exit gate on
a 2,000 sq ft area. The museum is expected to be completed by the end
of 2013–2014 financial year.
Zoo Museum
While coming out from zoo
there is a forest museum that has information about insects, plants, minerals, ores,
etc.
Tips
Heat –
Chennai is known for its warm climate. The sun is rather strong even in the
winter months. Wear a hat and sunscreen while going to the zoo. If you want to
visit all the enclosures and areas, the trip can take more than 3 to 5 hours.
Cautions – The
Vandalur Zoo enclosures are mostly small islands surrounded by dry or water
filled moats. Do not lean over the railing and be extra careful if you are
visiting with children.
Zoo Rules –
Make sure you follow all the rules. Feeding or petting animals is not allowed.
Interesting Facts
· Since the zoo is located
inside a reserve forest, there are many incidents where wild animals including
panthers and snakes have wandered into the zoo.
·
Enclosures in the zoo are
lit by solar energy.
· Animals like the King
cobra who cannot stand the heat have their own air-conditioners.
· Apart from Madumali, the
Vandalur zoo is the only place in Tamil Nadu where an elephant safari is
possible.
Tariff of Zoo
Zoo Timings: 09:00 AM -
5.00 PM (Tuesday Holiday)
Entrance Fee
|
||
Adults (above 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 30/-
|
Children (2 to 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 10/-
|
Below 2 years
|
:
|
Entry Free
|
Camera / Camera mobile / i-pad / tab
|
:
|
Rs. 25/-
|
Handy Cam
|
:
|
Rs. 150/-
|
Discount rates for
Government and Aided School Children
|
||
2 to 10 years
|
:
|
Rs. 2/-
|
Above 10 years
|
:
|
Rs. 30/-
|
Zoo Rounds & Safari
Vehicles
|
||
Zoo Rounds Vehicle :
|
||
Adult (above 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 30/-
|
Children (2 to 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 10/-
|
Lion Safari Vehicle :
|
||
Adult (above 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 30/-
|
Children (2 to 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 10/-
|
Deer Safari Vehicle :
|
||
Adult (above 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 30/-
|
Children (2 to 10 years)
|
:
|
Rs. 10/-
|
Wheel Chair
|
Rs. 25/-
|
|
Battery operated
vehicle:
|
||
Per hour
|
:
|
Rs.330/-
|
Vehicle Parking Charges
:
|
||
Bus/Lorry
|
:
|
Rs. 75/-
|
Car/Van/Jeep
|
:
|
Rs. 20/-
|
Bike
|
:
|
Rs. 10/-
|
Cycle
|
:
|
Rs. 2/-
|
Contact
The Additional Principal
Chief Conservator of Forests and Director
Arignar Anna Zoological
Park
Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil
Nadu – 600048
Phone-Office: +9144-22751089,
Fax: +9144-22750741
Email: directoraazp1@gmail.com
Connectivity
By Road: 32 Kms. from Chennai City. From Tambaram, take bus
service no’s A18, B18, E18, G18, M18, M18G, M18N, 18L, M52, G70, 70V, 70A, 114,
M118, 118P, G118, 170A, 170L, 170T, 170K, M500, 500B, 500C, 515, 517, 518, 555,
555N, 566, 566B and alight at Vandalur Zoo Bus Stop.
By Train: Nearest Railway Stations are Vandalur (1 km) Tambaram
(6 km).
By Air: Nearest Airport Chennai International Airport (15
Kms).