Modern Small Cat Enclosure and Male Zebra Introduced at Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna

Chirag Gupta

Patna: The Small Cat Enclosure at Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, Patna, was inaugurated by the Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Dr. Prem Kumar, and Secretary Bandana Preyashi. Constructed over two financial years (2022-23 and 2023-24) at a cost of ₹3.18 crore, the new facility addresses the challenges posed by the previous dilapidated enclosure. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HOFF), Bihar, and the Zoo Director were also present at the event.

The enclosure, spanning 961 square meters in a U-shape, features six display areas and 18 night houses designed to maximize natural light and ventilation. Tailored to mimic the natural habitats of small cats, it offers improved facilities for cleanliness, feeding, and monitoring by zoo keepers. Two kraals have been included for the care of unwell animals or those not on display, ensuring better health management.

Designed with tourists in mind, the enclosure incorporates modern amenities such as glass displays for an immersive viewing experience and natural surroundings for the small cat species. Visitor circulation has been streamlined with a single-route pathway, and adequate seating arrangements have been installed for crowd management.

The enclosure is intended to house six species of small cats: Jungle Cat (Felis chaus), Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), Rusty Spotted Cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus), Clouded Leopard Cat (Neofelis nebulosa), and Marbled Cat (Pardofelis marmorata). Currently, Jungle Cats, Fishing Cats, and Leopard Cats reside in the enclosure, with plans to acquire other species under the wildlife exchange program.

In a separate development, a male zebra was introduced to the park after being brought from Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bangalore, under a wildlife exchange program. This zebra pairs with the lone female zebra, enhancing the zoo’s collection and ensuring better health management and breeding opportunities. The release of this charismatic species marks another milestone for Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park.