Visakhapatnam: Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) has started acquiring a host of exotic animals, including Bengal fox, Himalayan black bear and scarlet macaws, making for a top-notch experience for its visitors.
On top of this, IGZP has taken up several other initiatives like installing benches, recreational areas for children and a new animal adoption policy to augment the zoo's finances.
IGZP recently welcomed a pair of giraffes from the Kolkata Alipore Zoological Garden. These tall herbivores - a two-year-old male and a four-year-old female - are currently in quarantine under the supervision of zoo doctors.
Additionally, four Asian water monitor lizards, scarlet macaws have also been brought to the zoo.
New enclosures have been constructed for Bengal fox, Himalayan black bear, hippopotamuses, Indian mar, stamp tailed musk, Asian brown parrots, and more.
Spanning across 625 acres, the IGZP in the Seethakonda Reserve Forest in Visakhapatnam offers a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
It is surrounded by the picturesque Eastern Ghats on three sides and the Bay of Bengal on the fourth.
The park is home to 77 animal species, totalling 835 individuals; this includes carnivores, small mammals, reptiles, ungulates, and birds. Rare endemic and exotic trees and shrubs with water bodies add to the natural beauty.
The geography helps in hosting diverse fauna amid two hillocks.
The adjoining Kambalakonda Eco Tourism Park, itself, is home to several rare animals.
Domestic and foreign tourists are patrons of the Visakhapatnam Zoo.
To increase footfall, new cafeterias have been set up. There are ample recreational facilities for children as well.
Resting benches and platforms have been placed along all enclosures for the benefit of tourists.
In an interesting development, the zoo management has laid down the rules for persons interested in adopting animals. Visitors who adopt animals in the zoo will get tax exemptions under 80G (5) of the IT Act, 1961.
Donors who make a contribution of Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000 can avail themselves of free entry into the zoo for five persons once a year. Donors who contribute Rs 30,000 or more will get a t-shirt, cap, and free entry to participate in all the events held at the zoo. Donors will also receive authorised adoption certificates.
