Vizag zoo prepares three dholes for breeding as season begins

Visakhapatnam: The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has readied itself for conservative breeding of the endangered wild dogs or Dholes at the nation’s only breeding centre at the Indira Gandhi National Zoological Park (IGNZP) in Vizag.

This year, nearly three female dogs were prepared for breeding as per the standards of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

October and November are favourable months for wild dogs to breed. This year, the weather also seems to be favourable for them due to the copious rainfall during the southwest monsoon season and the presence of green cover in the zoo. Good results are expected this year, unlike last year when the breeding was unsuccessful.

Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, IGNZP curator Nandani Salaria said the zoo has 35 Dholes including 25 male and 10 female dogs. Every zoo has its unique qualities for breeding wildlife. The Vizag Zoo was marked for its Dholes by the CZA, she said.

“Since the breeding season has started, we are preparing the female dogs for conservative breeding. We expect good results. Last year it was unsuccessful. It is our pride that Vizag zoo has the unique and natural enclosure and favourable climatic conditions that suit the conservation of wild dogs,” Salaria said.

The CZA takes up breeding activities for every endangered species in an effort to increase their population. The government tried different locations including the Chennai zoo but finally zeroed on Vizag’s zoological park. The process started with one male and two female dogs a decade ago. Their current population is 35.

The breeding is done with utmost care, like monitoring the activity under a surveillance system to prevent any kind of disturbance from other animals or the visitors to the zoo. Features of wild dogs include sharp ears and piercing eyes.