Patna: Patna Zoo is set to receive two male gaurs from Shivamogga Zoo in Karnataka by the end of July after the proposal received approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). Preparations are currently underway to facilitate their transfer.
The addition of the two male gaurs is expected to support breeding and strengthen the zoo’s gaur population. At present, Patna Zoo has only two female gaurs.
Central Zoo Authority Clears Transfer
According to zoo officials, the Central Zoo Authority has approved the transfer of the two male gaurs from Shivamogga Zoo.
The move is aimed at improving the genetic diversity of the gaur population at Patna Zoo and supporting long-term conservation efforts through planned breeding.
Shivamogga Zoo has been developed as India’s first dedicated Gaur Safari and houses Indian gaurs that were brought from Mysuru Zoo.
Recent Losses Reduced Gaur Population
The transfer comes after Patna Zoo suffered the loss of two gaurs in 2025.
In June 2025, a female gaur died after battling a Theileriosis infection. Officials said the animal had been undergoing treatment for nearly 20 days before it died. A post-mortem examination confirmed the infection as the cause of death.
Earlier, in March 2025, a male gaur named Bhairava died after remaining ill for several days and refusing food. The post-mortem report attributed the death to septicemia and multiple organ failure.
Male Giraffe Also to Join Patna Zoo
Separately, Patna Zoo is preparing to bring a male giraffe from Mysuru Zoo under an animal exchange programme.
Zoo authorities had initially explored the possibility of sourcing the animal from Kolkata Zoo. However, after receiving an unfavourable response, they decided to proceed with Mysuru Zoo.
The male giraffe is being brought in to diversify the bloodline and improve breeding prospects at the zoo.
Exchange Programme Under Consideration
If Mysuru Zoo requests an exchange, Patna Zoo may send its three-year-old female giraffe calf in return.
Officials said the proposal is being considered because Patna Zoo currently has only one adult female giraffe, and any exchange would be planned with the objective of maintaining a healthy and sustainable captive population.
