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In the midst of Kolkata summer, Alipore zoo a cool haven for animals

Zoo authorities have also said that four kangaroos will be joining the zoo soon

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An elephant sprinkles water on itself within the enclosure. (Pictures taken by Arshad Ali)
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As the temperature rises in Kolkata, Alipore Zoo authorities have taken several steps to ensure that the birds and animals are well looked-after.

“To prevent animals from getting dehydrated, we are giving them oral rehydration salts (ORS), and glucose with their water. In addition, they have been administered with special vitamins and anti-stress medicines. We have also installed fans in several parts of the zoo,” said Asis Kumar Samanta, the zoo director, adding that sheds were being constructed over bird cages using heat-retardant materials.

In addition, three veterinarians and one dietician have been assigned for the animals. The zoo animals have been given water-rich fruits such as watermelons, cucumbers and tomatoes. “In the case of deer, giraffes, and zebras, a diet of corn, carrots and guavas have been supplemented with green leafy vegetables, while animals such as elephants and tigers are bathed every day. In case of the birds, water is sprinkled in the enclosures,” Samanta added.  

(Chimpanzee plays - A chimpanzee plays on the swing at Alipore Zoo)

The Alipore zoo had registered a record number of 35 lakh visitors last year. While the number goes up to over a lakh on special occasions during lean periods, the number varies between 3,000 and 4,000 visitors every day.  “There had not been too many new animals at the zoo since I have held office. I had only ensured that the zoo was kept neat and clean. Cleanliness attracted more visitors.  We have had a record footfall last year,” Samanta said.

(Reptile house - a python cools itself in water at the reptile house where table fans have been installed)

It was also found out that four kangaroos would soon join the other animals. “A delegation from Japan’s Yokohama Zoo had come here some time ago. They were very happy with the maintenance of the zoo here and following our request they had agreed to gift us four kangaroos. There had been some administrative hurdles most of which had been dealt with. There is only one formality needs to be taken care of after which we will got it. We are expecting the kangaroos to arrive anytime soon,” Samanta added.

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