Sick animals for exhibition in zoo, admin yet to take note

Next time you visit the National Zoological Park, the sight of a bleeding deer and half-bald bears may unsettle you. HT reports.

Next time you visit the National Zoological Park, the sight of a bleeding deer and half-bald bears may unsettle you.

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The apathetic attitude of the authorities is clear from the fact that despite being severely injured and sick, these animals are left open for exhibition. The Central Zoo Authority rules do not permit exhibition of an animal that is sick, injured or infirm. It stipulates that the animal be kept in a secluded area for a specified time. Despite the rules, the deer enclosure is full of badly injured and sick deer, who are subjected to sheer negligence of the zoo authorities. Five sambars are injured and the authorities are yet to take a note of it. “Many sambars have suffered infection due to injuries. They are weak and are unable to walk. We have no option but to leave them in the open,” said a caretaker at the deer enclosure, requesting anonymity.

The condition of bears is no different. Many have developed bald patches on their backs.

Despite being equipped with modern veterinary facilities and doctors, the authorities are yet to take action.

“Deer are usually injured while locking horns with each other and due to crow biting. We’ll get the animals treated soon,” said Amitabh Agnihotri, director, National Zoological Park.