Delhi zoo turns on heat to beat chill

Heaters, special diet to keep animals comfortable during winters

Some warm clothing, dollops of moisturiser and we are ready to brave the Delhi winters. But what about those we have left behind on the road to evolution? Well, the Delhi Zoological Park authorities are doing their bit.


Temperatures rising:u00a0The Delhi Zoo authorities have made special
arrangements to keep the animals warm and comfortable in winters.
Pics/Rajeev Tyag

Heaters and new diet plans are in place to help animals deal with the chill. Different species have different needs and authorities are aware of that. So, reptiles, the big cats, apes etc are getting customised treatment.
Zoo officials have plugged in around six heaters and are planning to arrange for more if the mercury falls further. Animals, especially white tigers, Bengal tiger and jaguar have also been provided wooden platforms in their respective shelters.

"The floor is cold these days; wooden platform are more comfortable for animals as they keep warm for longer and absorb more heat.

We have also plugged in around two to four heaters for each animal. We have also introduced new diet plan for the animals. We give 50 grams Indian Gooseberry to each animal including rhinos and deer. And for the cat family we have made special arrangements. We feed them according to their daily exercise, twelve kg meat as well as soup in every meal," said Riyaz Ahmed Khan, spokesperson of Delhi Zoo.

In winters reptiles go in hibernation, so that section is not open to public these days. "We have also maintained temperatures for animals which is around 18 to 20 degree Celsius and we check it regularly. We also put electric bulbs inside pots to keep the reptiles warm and comfortable," said Rampal Verma, a caretaker at Delhi Zoo.

1000
Varieties of mammals, reptiles and avian species can be found at the Delhi Zoo
240 acres
Total area of the zoo