‘Non-vegetarian’ animals,birds in Kankaria zoo find no takers under adoption scheme

He added: “Many do not even understand the eco-system and the need of certain animals for maintaining ecological balance. Adoption programmes add awareness and help in conservation of these species,which have by and large come in the endangered group.” Zoo authorities said that barring few industrialists and corporate houses who have adopted lions and tigers,others do not even consider them as an option for adoption. Locals mostly choose birds like peacocks,Nicobar pigeons and the like for adoption.

Dr Sahu said that although not many come for adoptions,the ones who do come have pre-conceived notions.

“When people come to visit the zoo or for inquiring on the adoption programme,we give them lectures especially on the animals that need conservation. Schedule I animals and birds are always our priority. This scheme builds a relationship between the animal and the human beings. But people here mostly come to adopt animals,which are their favourites,and not with the intention of giving attention to the endangered species,” he said.

Under the scheme,the zoo offers the opportunity to adopt animals and birds in the zoo where the buyers,who become the ‘new masters’ of the animals,can donate money for feeding and maintaining them. They are given the freedom to visit their pets in the zoo and provide them with the necessary aid if required.

The adoption programme has different rates for different animals. Lions and tigers cost Rs 1.26 lakh while leopards cost Rs 38,000. Hyenas,wolves and jackals cost Rs 38,000 too. The less preferred birds like vultures and kites cost Rs 10,250.

Authorities said that due to the low preference among buyers for carnivorous animals and birds,these species are often left out. Birds like vultures and hyenas have not been adopted yet.

Zoo authorities are,however,working towards spreading more awareness about such species and educating people to change their perspective on the so-called ‘non-vegetarian’ animals.