Sambalpur Zoo Takes Heatwave Head-On with Coolers for Carnivores, Shade for Herbivores

Sambalpur:  Sambalpur Zoo is steadily gaining popularity and attracting more visitors by the day. Over the past year, it welcomed around 2.5 lakh visitors. In view of this growing interest, the zoo has undergone infrastructural development and expansion. Currently, the zoo houses 350 animals and birds of 17 species across 26 enclosures.

To protect these animals from the scorching summer heat, adequate shaded areas have been arranged. Zoo Superintendent Anshupragya Das stated that special arrangements have been made for the animals to prevent heatstroke during the summer months.

Enclosures of herbivores like deer and sambars have been equipped with thatched roofs to provide natural shelter. Each enclosure has been provided with sufficient drinking water facilities, along with small ponds or pools filled with large ice blocks, where animals can cool off and play. Additionally, water is sprayed on the thatched roofs at regular intervals to further reduce the heat.

For carnivorous animals like tigers and bears, coolers have been installed. These coolers run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day. Bears are being given traditional foods along with sugarcane juice, while herbivores are being served water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon and cucumber.

The zoo’s veterinary facilities have also been upgraded to enhance animal care. According to Hirakud Wildlife DFO and Zoo Supervisor Anshupragya Das, safety glass has been installed in the tiger enclosure for the convenience of visitors, and CCTV cameras have been fitted to monitor security.

Several improvements have been made for visitors as well, including more toilets, cold drinking water facilities, and lawns with seating arrangements in previously unused open areas. The morning nature walk track has also been developed for better visitor experience.

Given the high temperatures in Sambalpur and the zoo’s hilly location, summer heat mitigation measures have been in place since March 1 and will continue until the end of May, as confirmed by Anshupragya Das.