As part of improving the animal stock as per the approved master plan, the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar is all set to welcome new guests under the animal exchange programme with Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden, Guwahati.
Following necessary approvals from the Central Zoo Authority, Nandankanan Zoological Park will reportedly bring Gangetic Soft-shell turtle (2:2), Great White pelican (2:2), Himalayan griffin vulture (2:2), Greater Adjutant stork (2:2) from Assam State Zoo and Botanical garden, Guwahati.
With this, Nandankanan will add two new species to animal collection (greater adjutant stork and Himalayan griffin vulture). Gangetic soft shell turtle is being brought to pair the existing single one. To infuse new bloodline to the existing stock, white pelican will be helpful, informed Nandankanan zoo officials.
In exchange, Nandankanan will give some of its surplus animals to Assam zoo which includes Painted stork (2:2), Mandarin duck (1:1), Spot billed pelican (2:2), Blackbuck (2:3), Back headed ibis (10:10).
A five-member team of Nandankanan zoo reportedly left for Assam zoo to receive the animals on Tuesday. It is expected that these animals would be brought to Nandankanan by March 21, 2024.