1. Eight Hogdeers transferred from Nandankanan Zoo to Sambalpur Zoo under the supervision of Anshu Pragyan Das, DFO of Hirakud Wildlife Division.
2. The group consists of four male and four female Hogdeers.
3. They will undergo a month-long quarantine before being introduced to visitors at Sambalpur Zoo.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 20: Eight Hogdeers have been relocated from Nandankanan Zoo to Sambalpur Zoo, as confirmed by Anshu Pragyan Das, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Hirakud Wildlife Division.
The group comprises four male and four female Hogdeers, with plans for them to undergo a month-long quarantine before being showcased to visitors.
In exchange for the Hogdeers, Nandankanan Zoo will receive five Sambars (two male and three female) from Sambalpur Zoo, which currently has a surplus of Sambars. Once the quarantine period ends, the Hogdeers will be available for public viewing at Sambalpur Zoo.
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Hogdeers, also known as Indochina Hogdeer, are predominantly found in Southeast Asia, the US, and Australia, with sightings in northern India.
Their fur color changes with the seasons, and males are distinguished by their unique antlers.
Emitting a long whistle during dawn and dusk, these wild animals typically live for about 20 years and are categorized as Schedule-3 animals under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Last December, Hirakud Wildlife Division introduced eight blackbucks from Nandankanan Zoo, which have since been well-received by visitors and are in good health.
Additionally, during the 2023-24 fiscal year, the division enhanced its offerings with the inclusion of a nocturnal house, an open orchidarium, and a rose garden.
Currently, Sambalpur Zoo boasts a diverse collection of 18 animal species, including leopards, bears, chowsinghas, deer, pythons, peacocks, and various colorful birds.
Looking ahead, the zoo’s master plan outlines the introduction of another 30 species in the coming years, which may include tigers, nilgais, bisons, wolves, and wild dogs.
