Shivamogga Zoo Seeks Medium Status Upgrade

Officers at the Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari in Shivamogga are preparing a proposal to elevate the zoo's status from 'small' to 'medium'. This upgrade hinges on meeting criteria such as land area, visitor footfall, and the number of animals and species, including endangered ones.

The Shivamogga zoo boasts 253.3 hectares and saw 3.3 lakh visitors last year, housing over 440 animals from 36 species. To fulfill the endangered species requirement, the zoo plans to acquire eight Indian grey wolves and four gharials. In exchange, two Indian gaurs will be transferred to Patna zoo.

This reclassification aims to enable the zoo to undertake special conservation-breeding projects, particularly for Indian gaurs, for which it has already established facilities and expertise. Shivamogga zoo, which is the country's first to feature an Indian gaur safari, would become the state's first medium zoo upon approval.

Following a recent veterinarian's death, the zoo has reinforced safety protocols. Standard operating procedures for animal handling have been implemented, and staff have undergone training to ensure the safety of both personnel and animals within designated areas.