With 95 new additions, significant rise in animal population in Delhi Zoo

Animal population in Delhi Zoo has seen a significant rise this year with 95 new additions, including exotic birds, which has taken the total number to 1,351.

The total population of animals and birds has increased from previous year's 1,256, according to an annual inventory report released by the zoo.

"The zoo is currently housing a total of 107 different species with some new additions, thanks to the inter-zoo exchange programmes and successful inbreeding," Riaz Khan, zoo curator (education), said.

Black bucks and white bucks are among the species whose numbers have multiplied following successful inbreeding programme.

"We have been able to boost the number of black bucks," Khan said, adding, the number of black bucks has gone up to 175 from 163 last year.

Other animals with rising numbers include crocodile, pelicans and barking deer. For exotic bird species too, the Delhi Zoo seems to have become a safe haven as it has 30 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Blue-and-yellow macau found in South America, golden pheasant, Lady Amherst's pheasant, and black swans are among the species with a steadily growing population.

Currently, the zoo has 210 exotic birds and animals belonging to 32 species.