Jackals escape enclosure at Delhi zoo, probe ordered amid ongoing search op

The species is protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022, which offers the highest level of legal protection to wildlife in India. “There was serious mismanagement. Jackals escaped from a small gap in the back rear end of their enclosure fencing,” a senior official said.

According to the zoo administration, on Saturday morning, three to four jackals were spotted near the bushy forest area of the off-display jackal holding zone near Azimganj Sarai in Beat No. 10. Trap cages were placed and teams have been deployed to bring the animals back to safety.

“Today morning, one animal was guided back to the holding area (enclosure) and teams have been deployed to bring the rest (2 to 3) of the animals. One to two animals may be free-ranging also as the number in the holding area is matching with the inventory records,” read an official statement.

According to the zoo’s annual inventory, as of March 21, it was home to a total of nine jackals — four male, two female and three unsexed individuals.

“Animal capture teams with the animal section and security staff have been deployed. The tranquilisation team has been kept ready… if required as per situation. Monitoring of animals through staff and CCTV is on. The jackals are not in visitor movement areas. Joint Director, NZP, has been asked to enquire into the matter and submit a report,” the statement added.

A senior zoo official added that instances of animals escaping are not new. Earlier this year, around 12 barking deer escaped from their enclosure, and many remained uncaptured. In September, a Brahminy kite also escaped from its cage.

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