Zoo in India 2014 Final
Zoo in India 2014 Final
Zoo in India 2014 Final
2014
Legislation,
Policy,
Guidelines
and
Strategy
Edited & Revised by: B.S. Bonal, Inder Dhamija, B.R. Sharma,
S.C. Sharma, Brij Kishor Gupta
Published by
Page
(e) Transportation
(i) Guidelines for transport of captive wild animals 175-178
(ii) Protocols for transportation of wild animals 179-208
(f) Guidelines for exchange or transfer 209-212
of animals between Zoos
(g) Procedure and process for acquiring animals 213-216
from zoos abroad
(h) Guidelines for release of zoo animals into the wild 217-220
(i) Guidelines on Minimum Dimension of Enclosures 221-229
for Housing of Animals of Different Species in Zoos
(j) Guidelines on use of innovative exhibit design and 230-234
barriers design for holding and display of Animals
and birds in Indian Zoos
(k) Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers 235-248
in Zoo Management in India
(l) Guidelines for Developing Framework Mechanism 249-258
for Mobilizing Financial Support for Supplementing
Management of Zoos
(m) Advisory - Banning elephants from zoo collections 259
(i) Guidelines for management and maintenance 260
of elephants in circuses
(ii) Recommended guidelines during stakeholder 261-263
meetings on ‘Elephants upkeep in zoos’
(n) Policy on establishment of Dolphinarium 264-265
(o) Suggested health monitoring protocol for zoos 266-268
(p) Measures for preventing Avian Influenza 269
(q) Central Government Orders prohibiting sale 270-271
of animals by zoo
PREFACE
The Zoos in India are managed as per the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972
and guided by the National Zoo Policy, 1998. The Government of India established the Central
Zoo authority in the year 1992 to oversee the functioning of Zoos in the country and to control
mushrooming of ill-planned and ill-conceived Zoos. The Central Zoo Authority is working in
this direction. It has been the endeavor of the Central Zoo Authority to ensure that Zoo animals
are provided with conditions that are congenial to their psychological and physical well-being
and are able to procreate augmenting declining populations in wild. The National Zoo Policy
adopted in October, 1998 highlights the need for adequate financial and technical resources
for effective functioning of Zoos in the country. The Policy also lays emphasis on coordination
between the Zoos and eminent research and education institutions on various aspects of
Zoo Management. The Recognition of Zoo Rules, 1992 prescribes the different standards
and norms to be followed in the Zoos to provide appropriate housing, veterinary care, diet
etc. to the animals kept. In order to achieve the mandated function of CZA, Recognition
of Zoo Rules, 1992 was formulated fixing norms and standard for management of zoos
in the country. It has been further replaced by Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009, which are
more facilitatory than regulatory in nature. The endeavor of CZA for improvement of zoos
in country through Legislation, Policy, Guidelines & Strategy has been compiled with latest
amendments, formulation of policy. I hope this compilation on “Zoos in India - Legislation,
Policy, Guidelines and Strategy” will help in better management of existing Zoos and facilitate
creation of better zoos in future.
(B.S. Bonal)
Member Secretary
Central Zoo Authority
Preamble
1.1 The growing awareness for nature & wildlife conservation has
made zoos a popular institution. Estimates indicate that 10% of the world’s
population visit zoos every year. There are about 350 animal collections in
India, which are visited by more than 50 million people annually.
1.2 While there is a history of scientific interest, conservation and welfare of
captive wild animals in the country, many zoos have evolved from menageries
and private collections, and most zoos until the last two decades were set up
mainly for entertainment and recreation. As wildlife resources were abundant in
the past, scientific knowledge about the behavioral and biological requirements
of animals did not receive adequate attention, with the result that scientific
management of wild animals in captivity has evolved slowly.
1.3 The need for making conservation as one of the main objectives
of management of zoos was realized by Government of India soon
after independence and the Indian Board of Wildlife made important
recommendations in this regard. The Government set up an Expert Committee
on Management of Zoos in November,1972 and its recommendations were
accepted in June,1973. The recommendations are relevant even now for
improving the management of Zoos. The National Wildlife Action Plan of 1983
again emphasized the role of ex-situ conservation in national conservation
efforts. However, because of varied ownership patterns and divergent nature
of animal collections, not much was achieved.
1.4 Today when wildlife habitats are under severe pressure and a large
number of species of wild fauna have become endangered, the zoos have
not only to sustain their own populations but also augment the depleting
populations of endangered species in the wild. This new role has been
acknowledged by the global conservation community and Article 9 of the
Convention on Biological Diversity.
1.5 As zoos are visited by a large number of visitors, zoos are a potent tool
for educating people about the close linkage between protection of natural
areas and maintaining the life supporting processes of nature. Well-planned
and appropriately designed zoos can sensitize visitors to the dangers of a
hostile or indifferent attitude towards nature.
1.6 In India, many well designed zoos were set up in some of the States
but for the most part, zoos have not been able to meet the challenges
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
imposed by the changing scenario and still continue with the legacy of past
i.e. displaying animals under conditions which are neither congenial to the
animals nor educative and rewarding to the visitors.
1.7 The amendment of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, in 1991, provided for
the enforcement of mandatory standards and norms for management of zoos
through the Central Zoo Authority. However, it is realized that the objectives of
the Act can be achieved only through co-operation and participation of various
government agencies, non-governmental organisations and people at large.
1.8 The National Zoo Policy aims at giving proper direction and thrust to
the management of zoos by mustering co-operation and participation of all
concerned.
Objectives
2.1 The main objective of the zoos shall be to complement and strengthen
the national efforts in conservation and strengthen the national efforts in
conservation of the rich biodiversity of the country, particularly the fauna. The
objective can be achieved through the following protocol :-
2.1.1 Supporting the conservation of endangered species by giving
species, which have no chance of survival in wild, a last chance of survival
through coordinated breeding under ex-situ condition and raise stocks for
rehabilitating them in wild as and when it is appropriate and desirable.
2.1.2 To inspire amongst zoo visitors empathy for wild animals, an
understanding and awareness about the need for conservation of natural
resources and for maintaining the ecological balance.
2.1.3 Providing opportunities for scientific studies useful for conservation in
general and creation of database for sharing between the agencies involved
in in-situ and ex-situ conservation
2.1.4 Besides the aforesaid objectives, the zoos shall continue to function
as rescue centres for orphaned wild animals, subject to the availability of
appropriate housing and upkeep infrastructure. Where appropriate housing
and upkeep is not available, State Government and the Central Government
would ascertain setting up rescue facilities in off-the-display areas of the zoo,
subject to the availability of land.
Strategy for Achieving the Objectives
General Policy about Zoos
3.1.1 Since zoos require a significant amount of resources in the form of
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National Zoo Policy, 1998
land, water, energy and money, no new zoo shall be set up unless a sustained
supply of resources including finance and technical support are guaranteed.
3.1.2 Zoos shall prepare a long-term master plan for development to ensure
optimum utilisation of the land, water, energy and finance.
3.1.3 Every Zoo shall maintain a healthy, hygienic and natural environment
in the zoo, so that the visitors get an adequate opportunity to experience a
natural environment.
3.1.4 Zoos shall give priority to endangered species in their collection and
breeding plans. The order of preference for selection of species shall be (in
descending order) locality, region, country and other areas.
3.1.5 Zoos shall regulate the number of animals of various species in their
collection in such a way that each animal serves the objectives of the zoo. For
achieving this objective, a detailed management plan of every species in the
zoo shall be prepared.
3.1.6 Every zoo shall endeavor to avoid keeping single animals of non-
viable sex ratios of any species. They shall cooperate in pooling such animals
into genetically, demographically and socially viable groups at zoos identified
for the purpose.
3.1.7 Zoos shall avoid keeping surplus animals of prolifically breeding
species and if required, appropriate population control measures shall be
adopted.
Acquisition of Animals
3.2.1 Except for obtaining founder animals for approved breeding
programme and infusion of new blood into inbred groups, no zoo shall collect
animals from the wild.
3.2.2 Zoos shall not enter into any transaction involving violation of the law
and provisions of international conventions on wildlife conservation.
3.2.3 Zoos shall not enter into any transaction in respect of their surplus
animals with any commercial establishment. Even the animal products should
not be utilised for commercial purposes. The trophies of the animals could,
however, be used for educational or scientific purposes.
Animal Housing
3.3.1 Every animal in a zoo shall be provided housing, upkeep and health
care that can ensure a quality of life and longevity to enable the zoo population
sustain itself through procreation.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
3.3.2 The enclosure for all the species displayed or kept in a zoo shall be
of such size that all animals get adequate space for free movement and
exercise and no animal is unduly dominated or harassed by any other animal.
3.3.3 Each animal enclosure in a zoo shall have appropriate shelters,
perches, withdrawal areas, wallow, pools drinking water points and such
other facilities which can provide the animals a chance to display the wide
range of their natural behaviour as well as protect them from extremes of
climate.
Upkeep of Animal Collections
3.4.1 Zoos shall provide diet to each species, which is similar to its feed
in nature. Where for unavoidable reasons any ingredients have to be
substituted, due care will be taken to ensure that the substitute fulfills the
nutritional requirement of the species.
3.4.2 For the well being of the animals, round the clock supply of potable
drinking water shall be made available to all animals kept in the zoo.
3.4.3 With the objectives of avoiding human imprinting and domestication
of animals zoos shall prevent physical handling of animals by the staff to the
extent possible.
3.4.4 Zoos shall not allow any animal to be provoked or tortured for the
purpose of extracting any performance or tricks for the benefit of the visitors
or for any other reason.
Health Care
3.5.1 Zoos shall ensure availability of the highest standards of veterinary
care to all the animals in their collection.
3.5.2 Adequate measures shall be taken by every zoo for implementing
wildlife health and quarantine rules and regulations. Appropriate vaccination
programmes shall also be taken up for safeguarding against infectious
diseases. Timely action to isolate infected animals from the zoo population
shall be taken to avoid further spread of disease.
Research And Training
3.6.1 The zoos shall encourage research on the biology, behaviour, nutrition
and veterinary aspects of animals in their collection. They shall also endeavor
for creation of expertise on zoo architecture and landscape designing,
cooperation of recognised institutions already working in relevant fields in
this regard shall be taken.
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National Zoo Policy, 1998
3.6.2 Zoos shall endeavor for transfer of technical skills available in the field
for zoo personnel. The Central Government, Central Zoo Authority and State
Government shall provide due support to zoos in these efforts. Assistance of
Wildlife Institute of India (WII), India Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) and
other institutions within India and abroad, having appropriate expertise shall
be taken in this regard.
3.6.3 Zoos shall also endeavour for dissemination of information on
scientific aspects of management through publication of periodicals, journals,
newsletters and special bulletins. Help of non-governmental organisations
(NGOs) and government institutions shall also be availed in such efforts.
The Central Zoo Authority shall provide technical and financial support to the
Indian Zoos Directors Association (IZDA) and other institutions in this regard.
Breeding programme for species
3.7.1 Before taking up breeding programmes of any species, zoos shall
clearly identify the objectives for which the breeding programme is being
taken up. The targeted numbers for the programme would be decided
keeping in view the identified objectives.
3.7.2 All zoos shall cooperate in successful implementation of identified
breeding programmes by way of loaning, pooling or exchanging animals for
the programme and help creation of socially, genetically and demographically
viable groups even at the cost of reducing the number of animals or number
of species displayed in individual zoos.
3.7.3 Breeding programme shall be taken up by zoos after collection
of adequate data like biology, behaviour and other demo graphic factors
affecting the programme including the minimum number of founder animals
and the quantum of housing facilities available.
3.7.4 Programmes for breeding of zoo animals for re-introduction in the wild
shall be taken up after getting approval of the State Government, the Central
Zoo Authority and the Central Government as the case may be.
3.7.5 Zoos shall give priority in their breeding programmes to endangered
species representing the zoo-geographic zones in which they are located.
3.7.6 For carrying out breeding programmes in a scientific and planned
manner the zoo shall mark every individual animal involved in the programme
in an appropriate manner and maintain appropriate records.
3.7.7 Zoos shall take utmost precaution to prevent inbreeding. They shall
avoid artificial selection of traits and make no explicit or implicit attempts to
interbreed various genera, species and sub-species.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
3.7.8 Special efforts shall be made to avoid human imprinting of the stocks
raised for reintroduction purposes by providing off exhibit breeding facilities.
Education and Outreach Activity
3.8.1 Each zoo should have a well drawn-up plan for educating the visitors
as well as others in the community. Zoos shall keep a close liaison with other
ex-situ facilities in this regard.
3.8.2 The central theme of the zoo education programme being the linkage
between the survival of various species and protection of their natural habitat,
enclosures which allow the animals to display natural behaviour are crucial to
zoo education. Zoo shall, therefore, display animals in such enclosures only
where the animals do not suffer physiological and psychological restraint.
3.8.3 Attractive and effective signage methods and interactive displays
to explain activities of various species to visitors, published education
material and audio-visual devices are proven methods for driving home the
conservation’s message. A formal education programme should also be
pursued for strengthening the education message.
3.8.4 Beside signage, the zoos shall also use guided tours, talks by
knowledgeable persons and audio-visual shows for effectively communicating
the message of conservation to the visitors.
3.8.5 The help of universities, colleges and non-governmental organisation
shall be taken to educate the students about the benefits of supporting nature
conservation programmes.
Extension Activities
3.9.1 To provide the urban population with a window to nature and to serve
as green lungs for the polluting environment, zoos shall extend their expertise
and help to State Governments and local authorities to create nature parks
extending over extensive areas near big cities.
Amenities to Visitors
3.10.1 Zoo shall provide basic civic amenities to the visitors like toilets,
drinking water points, shelters and first-aid facilities. Ramps shall also be
provided for the benefit of visitors in wheel chairs for approach to animal
enclosure and other civic amenities.
3.10.2 Zoos shall not provide any infrastructure for recreation/entertainment
of visitors that is inconsistent with the stated objective of zoos.
*****
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2
THE WILDLIFE
(PROTECTION) ACT, 1972
With
CHAPTER - I
Preliminary
[1. Short title, extent, and commencement, -
(1) This Act may be called the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972
(2) It extends to the whole of India except the State of Jammu and Kashmir.
(3) It shall come into force in a State or Union Territory to which it extends,
[***] on such date as the central Government may, by notification,
appoint, and different dates may be appointed for different provision
of this act or for different States and Union Territories.
2. [Definitions - An Act to provide for the protection of wild animals,
birds and plants and for matters connected therewith or ancillary
or incidental thereto with a view to ensuring the ecological and
environmental security of the country.”]
[(1) “animal” includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish,
other chordates and invertebrates and also includes their young
and eggs;]
(2) “animal article” means an article made from any captive animal
or wild animal, other than vermin, and includes an article
or object in which the whole or any part of such animal [has
been used and ivory imported into India and an article made
therefrom].
(3) [Omitted 1991.]
[(4) “Board” means a State Board for Wild Life constituted under sub-
section (1) of section 6;]
(5) “captive animal” means any animal, specified in Schedule I,
Schedule II, Schedule III or Schedule IV, which is captured or
kept or bred in captivity;
(6) [Omitted 1991.]
(7) “Chief Wildlife Warden” means the person appointed as such under
C1. (a) of sub-section (1) of Sec.4;
[(7A) “Circus” means an establishment, whether stationary or
mobile where animals are kept or used wholly or mainly for
the purpose of performing tricks or manoeuvers;]
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
(31) “trophy” means the whole or any part of any captive animal or
wild animal, other than vermin, which has been kept or preserved
by any means, whether artificial or natural, and includes,
(a) rugs, skins, and specimens of such animals mounted in
whole or in part through a process of taxidermy, and
[(b) antler, bone, carapace, shell, horn, rhinoceros horn,
hair, feather, nail, tooth, tusk, musk, eggs, nests and
honeycomb;]
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
(32) “uncured trophy” means the whole or any part of any captive
animal, other than vermin, which has not undergone a process of
taxidermy, and includes a [ freshly killed wild animal ambergris,
musk and other animal products];
(33) “vehicle” means any conveyance used for movement on land, water
or air, and includes buffalo, bull, bullock, camel, donkey, elephant,
house and mules;
(34) “vermin” means any wild animal specified in Sch.V;
(35) “weapon” includes ammunition, bows and arrows, explosives,
firearms, hooks, knives, nets, poison, snares, traps, and any
instrument or apparatus capable of anaesthetizing, decoying,
destroying, injuring or killing an animal;
[(36) “wild animal” means any animal specified in Schedules I and IV
and found wild in nature;]
[(37) “wild life” includes any animal, aquatic or land vegetation which
forms part of any habitat;]
(38) “Wildlife Warden” means the person appointed as such under C1. (b)
of sub-section (1) of Sec.4;
[(39) “zoo” means an establishment, whether stationary or mobile,
where captive animals are kept for exhibition to the public and
includes a circus and rescue centers but does not include an
establishment of a licenced dealer in captive animals;]
*****
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
CHAPTER II
Authorities to be appointed or
constituted under this Act
5. Power to delegate - (1) The Director may, with the previous approval
of the Central Government, by order in writing, delegate all or any of
his powers and duties under this Act to any officer subordinate to him
subject to such conditions, if any, as may be specified in the order.
(2) The Chief Wildlife Warden may, with the previous approval of
the State Government, by order in writing, delegate all or any of his
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powers and duties under this Act, except those under Clause (a)
of sub-section (1) of Sec.11, to any officer subordinate to him
subject to such conditions, if any, as may, be specified in the order.
(3) Subject to any general or special direction given or condition
imposed by the Director or the Chief Wildlife Warden, any person,
authorised by the Director or the Chief Wildlife Warden to exercise
any powers, may exercise those powers in the same manner and
to the same effect as if they had been conferred on that person
directly by this Act and not by way of delegation.
[5A. Constitution of the National Board for Wild Life.- (1) The
Central Government shall, within three months from the date of
commencement of the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act,
2002, constitute the National Board for Wild Life consisting of
the following members, namely: -
(a) the Prime Minister as Chairperson;
(b) the Minister in-charge of Forests and Wild Life as Vice-
Chairperson;
(c) three members of Parliament of whom two shall be from
the House of the People and one from the Council of
States;
(d) Member, Planning Commission in-charge of Forests and
Wild Life;
(e) five persons to represent non-governmental organizations
to be nominated by Central Government;
(f) ten persons to be nominated by the Central Government
from amongst eminent conservationists, ecologists and
environmentalists;
(g) the Secretary to the Government of India in-charge of the
Ministry or Department of the Central government dealing
with Forests and Wild Life;
(h) the Chief of the Army Staff;
(i) the Secretary to the Government of India in-charge of the
Ministry of Defence;
(j) the Secretary to the Government of India in-charge of the
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting;
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
[6. Constitution of State Board for Wild Life. - (1) The State Government
shall, within a period of six months from the date of commencement
of the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2002 constitute a State
board for Wild Life consisting of the following members, namely: -
(a) the Chief Minister of the State and in case of the Union
Territory, either Chief Minister or Administrator, as the case
may be - Chairperson;
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
[(2) The term of the office of the members other than those who are
members exofficio and the manner of filling vacancies referred
to in clauses (d) and (e) of sub-section (1) and procedure to be
followed shall be such, as may be prescribed.]
[(3) The member (except members ex officio) shall be entitled to
receive such allowances in respect of expenses incurred in the
performance of their duties as may be prescribed.]
*****
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
CHAPTER III
Hunting of Wild Animals
[9. Prohibition of Hunting. - No person shall hunt any wild animal
specified in Schedule, I, II, III and IV except as provided under Sec.11
and Sec.12.]
Comments
(i) Section 9 of the Act says that no person shall "hunt" any wild animal specified in
Schedule I, Elephant is included in Schedule I, State of Bihar vs Murad Ali Baig AIR
1989 SC 1.
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
[CHAPTER III A]
PROTECTION OF SPECIFIED PLANTS
*****
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
CHAPTER - IV
[PROTECTED AREAS]
Sanctuaries
18. Declaration of Sanctuary. - .....
[18A. Protection to sanctuaries.- .....
[18B. Appointment of Collectors.- .....
19. Collector to determine rights.- .....
20. Bar of accrual of rights.- .....
21. Proclamation by Collector. .....
22. Inquiry by Collector.- .....
23. Powers of Collector.- .....
24. Acquisition of rights.- .....
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
National Parks
35. Declaration of National Parks.- .....
[(5) No alteration of the boundaries of a National Park by the State
Government shall be made except on a recommendation of the
National Board.]
[(6) No person shall destroy, exploit or remove any Wildlife including
forest produce from a National Park or destroy or damage or divert
the habitat of any wild animal by any act whatsoever or divert,
stop or enhance the flow of water into or outside the National
Park, except under and in accordance with a permit granted by
the Chief Wildlife Warden, and no such permit shall be granted
unless the State Government being satisfied in consultation with
the National Board that such removal of wild life from the National
Park or the change in the flow of water into or outside the National
Park is necessary for the improvement and better management of
wild life therein, authorises the issue of such permit:
Provided that where the forest produce is removed from a National
Park, the same may be used for meeting the personal bona fide
needs of the people living in and around the National Park and
shall not be used for any commercial purpose.]
36. [Omitted 1991.]
[36A. Declaration and management of a conservation reserve.- ...
[36B. Conservation reserve management committee.- .....
[36C. Declaration and management of community reserve.-
[36D. Community reserve management committee.-
Closed Area
[37. [Omitted 2002.]
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
[CHAPTER - IVA]
CENTRAL ZOO AUTHORITY AND
RECOGNITION OF ZOOS
38A. Constitution of Central Zoo Authority. - (1) The Central Government
shall constitute a body to be known as the Central Zoo Authority
(hereinafter in this Chapter referred to as the Authority), to exercise
the powers conferred on, and to perform the functions assigned to
it under this Act.
(2) The Authority shall consist of -
(a) Chairperson;
(b) Such number of members not exceeding ten; and
(c) Member-Secretary;
to be appointed by the Central Government.
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
38F. Annual report. - The Authority shall prepare in such form and
at such time, for each financial year, as may be prescribed, its
annual report, giving a full account of its activities during the
previous financial year and forward a copy thereof to the Central
Government.
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
*****
CHAPTER - IV B
National Tiger Conservation Authority
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CHAPTER - IV C
Tiger and other Endangered Species
Crime Control Bureau
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
CHAPTER - V
Trade or Commerce in Wild Animals
Animal Articles and Trophies
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
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42. Certificate of ownership. - The Chief Wildlife Warden may, for the
purposes of Sec. 40, issue a certificate of ownership in such form,
as may be prescribed, to any person who, in his opinion, is in lawful
possession of any wild animal or animal article, trophy, uncured trophy,
and may, where possible, mark, in the prescribed manner, such animal
article, trophy or uncured trophy for the purposes of identification.
[Provided that before issuing the certificate of ownership in respect
of any captive animal, the Chief wildlife Warden shall ensure that the
applicant has adequate facilities for housing, maintenance and upkeep
of the animal.]
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
(3) ............
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
(4) ............
(5) ............
(6) ............
(7) ............
(8) ............
(9) ............
*****
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
[CHAPTER - VA]
Prohibition of Trade or Commerce in Trophies,
Animal Articles, etc. derived from certain Animals.
*****
CHAPTER - VI
Prevention and Detection of Offences.
50. Power of entry, search, arrest and detention.- .....
(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in any other law for the time
being in force, the Director or any other authorised by him in this
behalf or the Chief Wildlife Warden or the authorised officer or
any forest officer or any police officer not below the rank of a sub-
inspector may, if he has reasonable grounds for believing that any
person has committed an offence against this Act,
(a) require any such person to produce for inspection any
captive animal, wild animal, animal article, meat, [1trophy,
uncured trophy, or any specified plant or part or derivative
thereof] in his control, custody or possession, or any
licence, permit or any other document granted to him or
required to be kept by him under the provisions of this Act;
(b) stop any vehicle or vessel in order to conduct search or
inquiry or enter upon and search any premises, land,
vehicle, or vessel in the occupation of such person, and
open and search any baggage or other things in his
possession;
(c) seize any captive animal, wild animal, animal article,
meat, trophy or uncured trophy, or any specified plant or
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Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
and also with fine which shall not be less than ten thousand
rupees:
Provided further that in case of a second or subsequent
offence of the nature mentioned in this sub-section, the term
of imprisonment shall not be less than three years but may
extend to seven years and also with fine which shall not be less
than twenty-five thousand rupees.]
[(1A) Any person who contravenes any provisions of Chapter VA,
shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which shall
not be less than [three years] but which may extend to seven
years and also with fine which shall not be less than [ten
thousand rupees].
[(1B) Any person who contravenes the provisions of Sec. 38J
shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may
extend to six months or with fine which may extend to two
thousand rupees, or with both.
Provided that in the case of a second or subsequent offence
the term of imprisonment may extend to one year or with fine
which may extend to five thousand rupees.]
(1C) .......
(1D) .......
(2) When any person is convicted of an offence against this
Act, the Court trying the offence may order that any captive
animal, wild animal, animal article, trophy, [uncured trophy,
meat, ivory imported into India or an article made from such
ivory, any specified plant or part or derivative thereof] in
respect of which the offence has been committed, any trap,
tool, vehicle, vessel, or weapon used in the commission of
the said offence be forfeited to the State Government and
that any licence or permit, held by such person under the
provisions of this Act, be cancelled.
(3) Such cancellation of licence or permit or such forfeiture shall
be in addition to any other punishment that may be awarded
for such offence.
(4) Where any person is convicted of an offence against this Act,
the Court may direct that the licence, if any, granted to such
person under the Arms Act, 1959 (54 of 1959) for possession
39
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
of any arm with which an offence against this Act has been
committed, shall be cancelled, and that such person shall not
be eligible for a licence under the Arms Act, 1959, for a period
of five years from the date of conviction.
[(5) Nothing contained in Sec. 360 of the Code of Criminal
Procedure, 1973 (2 of 1974) or in the Probation of Offenders
Act, 1958 (20 of 1958) shall apply to a person convicted of an
offence with respect to hunting in a sanctuary or a National
Park or of an offence against any provision of Chapter VA
unless such person is under eighteen years of age.]
[51A. Certain conditions to apply while granting bail.-
(a) ......
(b) ......
52. Attempts and abatement. - Whoever attempts to contravene, or abets
the contravention of, any of the provisions of this Act or for any rule
of order made thereunder shall be deemed to have contravened that
provision or rule or order, as the case may be.
40
Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
41
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
[CHAPTER - VIA]
[FORFEITURE OF PROPERTY DERIVED FROM ILLEGAL
HUNTING AND TRADE.]
42
Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
58W. Findings under other laws not conclusive for proceedings under
this chapter ....
*****
43
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
CHAPTER - VII
Miscellaneous
59. Officers to be public servants. - Every officer referred to [in Chapter
II and the Chairperson, Members, Member-Secretary, and other
officers and employees referred to in Chapter IV A [Chapter IV B]]
and every other officer exercising any of the powers conferred by
this Act shall be deemed to be a public servant within the meaning
of Sec. 21 of the Indian Penal Code 1860, (45 of 1860).
[60B.
Reward by State Government.- The State Government may
empower the chief Wild Life Warden to order payment of reward not
44
Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
45
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
(e) the form in which and the time at which the annual
report of the Central Zoo Authority shall be prepared
under Sec. 38F;
(f) the form in which and the fee required to be paid with
application for recognition of a zoo under sub-section
(2) of Sec. 38H;
(g) the standards, norms and other matters to be
considered for granting recognition under sub-section
(4) of Sec. 38H;
(g)(i) .....
(g)(ii) .....
(g)(iii) .....
(g)(iv) .....
(g)(v) .....
(g)(vi) .....
(h) the form in which the declaration shall be made under sub
-section (2) of Sec. 44;
(i) the matters to be prescribed under clause (b) of sub-
section (4) of Sec. 44;
(j) the terms and conditions which shall govern transactions
referred to in clause (b) of Sec, 48;
(k) the manner in which notice may be given by a person
under clause (c) of Sec. 55;
(l) the matters specified in sub-section (2) of Sec. 64 in so far
as they relate to sanctuaries and National Parks declared
by the Central Government.]
(2) Every rule made under this section shall be laid, as soon as
may be, after it is made, before each House of Parliament,
while it is in session, for a total period of thirty days which may
be comprised in one session or in two or more successive
sessions and if before the expiry of the session immediately
following the session or the successive sessions aforesaid,
both houses agree in making any modification in the rule or
both Houses agree that the rule should not be made, the rule
shall thereafter have effect only in such modified form or be
46
Relevant Sections applicable to Zoos Under
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 with (Amendment) Act, 2006
of no effect, as the case may be, so, however, that any such
modification or annulment shall be without prejudice to
the validity of anything previously done under that rule.
64. Power of State Government to make rules.- (1) The State Government
may, by notification, make rules for carrying out the provisions of this
Act in respect of matters which do not fall within the purview of Sec. 63.
(2) In particular and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing
power, such rules may provide for all or any of the following
matters, namely:
[(a) the term of office of members other than those who are
members, ex officio, the manner of filling vacancies and
the procedure to be followed by the board under sub-
section (2) of Sec. 6;]
[(b) allowances referred to in sub-section (3) of Sec. 6;]
(c) the forms to be used for any application, certificate, claim,
declaration, licence, permit, registration, return, or
other document, made granted, or submitted under the
provisions of this Act and the fees, if, any therefore;
(d) the conditions subject to which any licence or permit may
be granted under this Act;
[(dd) the conditions subject to which the officers will be authorised
to file cases in the court;]
(e) the particulars of the record of wild animals (captured or
killed) to be kept and submitted by the licensee;
[(ee) the manner in which measures for immunization of live-
stock shall be taken;]
(f) regulation of the possession, transfer, and the sale of
captive animals, meat, animal articles, trophies, and
uncured trophies;
(a) regulation of taxidermy;
[(ga) the manner and conditions subject to which the
Administrator shall receive and manage the property under
sub-section (2) of Sec. 58G;]
[(gb) the terms of conditions of service of the Chairman and
other members under sub-section (3) of Sec. 58N;]
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
[(gc) the fund from which and the manner in which payment of
reward under section 60B shall be made;".
(h) any other matter which has to be, or may be, prescribed
under this Act.
*****
48
3
PREAMBLE
Background
The first National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) was adopted in 1983, based
upon the decision taken in the XV meeting of the Indian Board for Wildlife
held in 1982. The plan had outlined the strategies and action points for
wildlife conservation which are still relevant. In the meanwhile, however,
some problems have become more acute and new concerns have become
apparent, requiring a change in priorities. Increased commercial use of
natural resources, continued growth of human and livestock populations and
changes in consumption patterns are causing greater demographic impacts.
Biodiversity conservation has thus become a focus of interest. The National
Forest Policy was also formulated in 1988, giving primacy to conservation.
Hence this new National Wildlife Action Plan.
Overview
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
POLICY IMPERATIVES
Ecological Security
To protect the long-term ecological security of India, the national development
agenda must recognise the imperative of identifying and protecting natural
ecosystems from over-exploitation, contamination and degradation. Short
52
Relevant Portions of the National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016)
Priority to Conservation
Assigning conservation a high priority both at the level of central and state
governments is an imperative. Its integration in all development programmes,
evolving appropriate funding mechanism, enhancement of financial
allocations and provision of adequate personnel with requisite expertise
has to be ensured, to arrest the ongoing trend of degradation and to restore
wildlife and its habitat.
In situ Conservation
Primacy must be accorded to in situ conservation, the sheet anchor of wildlife
conservation. Ex situ measures in zoological parks and gene banks may
supplement this objective, without depleting scarce wild resources.
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protection through creative zonation and by adding new Protected Area (PA)
categories in consultation with local communities, such as an inviolate core,
conservation buffer, community buffer and multiple use areas.
Man-Animal Conflict
While increasing man-animal conflict is an outcome of shrinkage,
fragmentation and deterioration of habitats, it has caused destruction of
wildlife and generated animosity against wild animals and protected areas.
This is a crucial management issue, which needs to be addressed through
innovative approaches.
54
Relevant Portions of the National Wildlife Action Plan (2002-2016)
Pig and Jungle Fowl. It must be ensured that natural phenomena involving
inter alia pollination, breeding, feeding , movements and migrations are not
hampered but assisted.
Action required
1. To undertake a programme of ex situ captive breeding and rehabilitation
in the wild for critically endangered species in accordance with IUCN
guidelines, after developing requisite techniques and capabilities in this
regard.
Priority Projects
Develop capabilities for planned breeding and reintroduction of captive
bred populations of identified endangered species in accordance with IUCN
guidelines.
Timing : To start in 2003 and ongoing
Responsibility : CZA , State Governments, and Scientific Institutions.
Action required
1. Training personnel, especially from local communities, for wildlife
education so that they cay be employed as interpreters/guides at PAs,
Zoological Gardens, Natural History Museums, etc.
2. Enhance the role of zoos as centres of conservation awareness.
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Priority projects:
1. Encourage creation of nature immersing enclosures for display of wild
animals in zoos and explain ecological linkages of species displayed
through appropriate signage.
Timing: To start in 2003 and ongoing.
Responsibility: CZA, State/UT Governments and NGOs.
*****
56
4
NOTIFICATION
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60
Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
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"(2) The zoo which meets at least any four of the aforesaid criteria (but
including number of species and number of animals) shall be classified as
such by the Central Zoo Authority.
Provided that the Central Zoo Authority may, by order in writing, allow
a mini zoo to keep animals of endangered species subject to the conditions,
if any, laid down in that order with regard to the area of the zoo, housing,
upkeep and healthcare facilities including deployment of veterinarian and
supervisory level staff.
* Amended vide the Gazette Notification GSR 657 (E) dated 02.08.2013,
(Pg. No.76).
In the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009, in rule 9, for sub-rule (2) the following
sub-rule be substituted, namely :-
"(2). The Zoo which meets any two of the criteria specified in columns
(3) to (6) and meet the criteria specified in column (7) and (8)
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Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
THE SCHEDULE
[See rule 10]
1. General requirements.---------
(1) Every zoo shall endeavour to establish and sustain population of
physically, genetically and behaviorally healthy animals for furthering
the cause of wildlife conservation and communicating credible
conservation message to the visitors through display of healthy animals
in naturalistic settings.
(2) Every zoo shall, through proper landscaping and planting of appropriate
species, provide a naturalistic environment within the zoo to enable the
visitors to have communion with nature and get motivated for living in
harmony with nature.
(3) Every zoo shall endeavour to regulate the movement of visitors in
the zoo in such a manner that zoo animals are not unduly disturbed,
stressed or provoked and the zoo shall be closed to visitors at least one
day in a week.
(4) Every zoo, as a safeguard against the un-regulated access of visitors
to the zoo and zoo animals being subjected to injury, pilferage and
predation, shall design appropriately the barriers along the boundary
of the zoo in accordance with the standards issued by the Central Zoo
Authority in this regard.
(5) Every zoo, which is surrounded by human landscape shall be
encompassed by a perimeter wall of at least two meter in height from
the ground level on both sides.
(6) No residential colony shall be constructed within the zoo premises.
Provided that where such colonies already exist, it shall be separated
from the zoo premises by a boundary wall with a minimum height of two
meters from the ground level. The entry to the residential colony shall
not be through the zoo premises.
(7) Every zoo shall carry out its operations in a manner that causes
minimum stress on natural resources and produces the minimum of
solid wastes and effluents and the zoo shall also endeavour to put in
place the practices of effective waste management through reducing,
reusing and recycling and disposing the effluents and the solid wastes
in a manner that causes least adverse environmental impact.
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Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
(8) Every zoo shall refrain from display of sick, injured, infirm and tethered
animals to the visitors and such animals shall be housed in off-display
facilities specially earmarked for and providing appropriate upkeep and
healthcare for such animals
(9) Every zoo shall refrain from housing of domestic animals and pets
within the zoo premises and adequate safeguards shall also be put in
place to prevent the entry of domestic livestock, stray animals and pets
into the premises of the zoo.
(3) In case the scientific and technical posts are filled by direct recruitment,
the recruitment rule for such posts shall provide for their career
progression including the benefit of flexible complementing scheme for
their promotions.
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Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
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Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
(6) The curatorial and the veterinary staff shall keep a close watch on
the general behaviour and health parameters of the zoo animals.
The animals shall be handled only by the staff having experience
and training in handling the individual animals.
(7) Any animal that shows any sign of dullness, loss of appetite, injury
or abnormal behaviour shall be thoroughly assessed and provided
medical attention promptly as per the standards specified by the
Central Zoo Authority in this regard from time to time and the
direction of the Zoo administration.
(8) Every zoo animals shall be screened for parasitic loads as per
written schedule prepared by the zoo in consultation with the
veterinary officer and prophylactic medicines administered as per
clinical requirements and vaccination of animals against infectious
diseases shall also be done, as per the schedule prescribed by
the Veterinary Officer from time to time.
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(9) All staff involved with upkeep and healthcare of zoo animals
shall be screened against zoonotic diseases once every year
and those found positive to any communicable disease shall be
provided appropriate treatment till they get cured and freed of the
infection and during the period of such treatment, the infected
employees shall be kept away from the responsibility of upkeep
and healthcare of the animals.
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Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
Provided that a Mini zoo shall have atleast one whole time
employee to take care of upkeep and feeding of the zoo animals.
(6) Every zoo shall have linkages with the eminent institutions and
organizations working in the field of wild animal healthcare with
the objectives to provide for:
(a) the assistance in scientific diagnosis of diseases of serious
nature and advise on the effective remedial treatment.
(b) the training and upgrading technical skills of zoo staff; and
(c) the development of protocols for preventive medicines and
vaccination
7. Post-mortem and disposal of carcasses of animals
(1) Every animal died in the zoo shall be subjected to a detailed
postmortem examination by registered veterinarian to determine
conclusively the cause of the death.
(3) In the event of the post mortem being inconclusive and no specific
reason for death is identified, the zoo authorities shall send the
samples of the tissues and organs, blood, viscera etc. for further
examination to the qualified diagnostic laboratory having adequate
specialization for further investigation and identifying the cause of
death.
(4) Every zoo shall ensure that the carcasses of the animals, after
the post-mortem has been conducted, is disposed off by burying
or burning in a manner that does not have any adverse impact on
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
72
Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
11. Education and outreach activities ---- (1) Every zoo shall endeavour
to educate the visitors to the zoo and the people at large about the
significance of wildlife conservation for the general well being of the
people and keeping the life support system of nature intact and the
efforts shall be made to make people aware about the role played by
the zoos in this regard and the ways and means through which general
public can participate and contribute for the same.
(2) No physical handling or performances by animals shall be
permitted as part of educational activity.
*****
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Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
FORM- I
[See rules 3 & 8 ]
To
The Member Secretary
Central Zoo Authority
Annexe No. VI, Bikaner House,
Shahjahan Road,
New Delhi – 110 011.
We want to get recognition under section 38H of the Wild Life (Protection)
Act, 1972 in respect of ________________. Bank Draft for Rs.________
drawn in favour of Central Zoo Authority, New Delhi is also enclosed. The
required information in respect of ______________is as under :
3. Date of Establishment:
*5. Total number of visitors to the Zoo during the last three years: (Year
wise):
*6. Total number of days on which zoo is open to visitors during a calendar
year:
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Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
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14. Budget of the Zoo for the last 3 years Revenue Grants Total expenditure:
15. Annual Report, Guide books, Brochure or any other publication (copies
enclosed)
16. Master plan/ detailed project report of the zoo (enclose a copy)
Date: ...........................
78
FORM – II
[See rule 11 (1)]
PART - A
Proforma for Quarterly/ Annual Inventory Report
Inventory Report for the Quarter/ Year :
Endangered Species*
S. No Animal Scientific Opening Stock Births Acquisitions Disposals Deaths Closing Stock
Name Name as on as on
Birds M F U T M F U M F U M F U M F U M F U T
1.
2.
Total Birds
Mammals
1.
79
2.
Total Mammals
Reptile/
Amphibians
1.
2.
Total Reptiles/
Amphibians
Invertebrates
1.
2.
Total Invertebrates
Total Animals
*Animals under Sch- I and Sch- II of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972
Curator (Animals) Director
Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 with (Amendment) Rules, 2013
PART - B
Proforma for Annual Inventory Report
Inventory Report for the Year :
Other than endangered Species
S. No Animal Scientific Opening Stock as Births Acquisitions Disposals Deaths Closing Stock as
Name Name on 1-4- on 31-03-
Birds M F U T M F U M F U M F U M F U M F U T
1.
2.
......
Total Birds
Mammals
1.
2.
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
......
80
Total Mammals
Reptiles/
Amphibians
1.
2.
......
Total Reptiles/
Amphibians
Invertebrates
1.
2.
......
Total Invertebrates
Total Animals
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82
5
facilitating effective
Guidelines for
and scientific management of
zoos in India in consonance
with Rule 10 of Recognition of
Zoo Rules, 2009
(Amendment) Rules, 2013
Guidelines for facilitating effective and scientific management of zoos in India in
consonance with Rule 10 of Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 (Amendment) Rules, 2013
Schedule 1 (3)
Regulation of the movement of the visitors in a manner that the animals
are not unduly disturbed
Zoo should not permit in its premises the activities like meetings,
conferences, exhibitions, melas and social functions which are inconsistent
with the objectives of the zoo and are likely to raise levels of pollution and
obstruct the smooth movement of visitors.
Schedule 1 (4)
Provision of appropriately designed barrier
The perimeter barrier and the entry gate of each zoo should be so
designed, constructed and maintained that stray dogs, domestic livestock and
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
feral animals can not get access into the zoo. Provision for posting adequate
number of security guards should also be made to keep a close watch so that
unauthorized persons do not cause any breaches in the perimeter barrier
to get access to the zoo and cause damage to the zoo property or harm to
zoo animals. All breaches in the perimeter barrier, whether accidental or man
made should be repaired promptly.
Every zoo should have a detailed chart indicating duties and responsibilities
of all levels of staff also indicating the chain of command for reporting and
promptly dealing with the matters pertaining to maintenance and operation
of the zoo and the emergencies that may arise during such operations. In
the absence of a particular functionary, alternate arrangement should be
available for looking after his/her functions. Specific responsibility should
be assigned to the zoo personnel with appropriate seniority to attend and
redress the problems faced by the visitors. All concerned should be suitably
notified about the same. Subject to availability of staff, a senior staff member
should be designated as ex-officio “Public Relations Officer”.
The indicative list of the duties for the posts which are mandatory under the
rules, is given below:-
(i) Curator: Upkeep and maintenance of animal collection and
animal housing, including timely cleaning and disinfection of
animals’ enclosure, timely feeding of animals in the prescribed
manner, keeping a close watch on the general health conditions
of the animals and taking steps for getting sick animals treated
on priority basis including crating, shifting and transportation of
animals within the zoos.
(ii) Veterinarian: Frequent visits to animal enclosures and assessing
general health condition of animals, assessment of the adequacy
of the feed being supplied to the animals, having a regular check
on the quality of feed and water being supplied to the animals
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Guidelines for facilitating effective and scientific management of zoos in India in
consonance with Rule 10 of Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 (Amendment) Rules, 2013
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Guidelines for facilitating effective and scientific management of zoos in India in
consonance with Rule 10 of Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 (Amendment) Rules, 2013
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Adopting themes based on local/ regional animals suited to the local climate
have greater chances of success. Highly endangered species should
normally not be made part of thematic displays.
Under the present state of management of zoos taxonomic displays with few
specialized display on bio-geographic/ ecosystem themes shall be a practical
approach.
Due safeguards should be taken so that visitor road does not pass through
the area adjoining the animal feeding cells, feeding kraals, animal service
areas, service road and off the exhibit areas.
If required, zoo could fix different timings for visitors viewing specific animal
facilities.
All civic amenities and visitor facilities should preferably be located by the
side of main road only.
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Guidelines for facilitating effective and scientific management of zoos in India in
consonance with Rule 10 of Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 (Amendment) Rules, 2013
Following should be the guiding principles for finalizing the collection plans for
different categories of zoos in Indian conditions
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
94
Taking into consideration the outcome of detailed analysis as mentioned
above, draw out the final list of the species and the number of animals of
each species to be housed in the zoo. Fewer species with viable population
are always preferable to a collection of larger number of species with non
viable numbers.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Management Plan
Every zoo should prepare a management plan listing out the activities to
be taken up by the zoo for implementing the master plan over next 5 years
indicating realistic costs of executing the identified activities and financial
year wise targets both physical and financial including anticipated source of
funding.
Detailed strategy for achieving the target should also be explained in explicit
and elaborate manners.
The area of the enclosure should have adequate land space for facilitating
the animals to have free movement and exercise, adequate area to rest in
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Guidelines for facilitating effective and scientific management of zoos in India in
consonance with Rule 10 of Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 (Amendment) Rules, 2013
shade and bask in the sun and have safe refuge from dominant animals and
express their natural, social and reproductive behaviour.
The animal exhibit enclosures should not be given geometrical shapes, as the
presence of corners is not congenial to smooth and unrestricted movement of
animals. Enclosures with greater depth facilitate the animals to keep a safe
distance from the visitors and are always preferable.
The dimensions and the area of any enclosure should be decided having
due regard to various factors mentioned above and the topography and
naturalistic features of site identified for construction of the enclosure.
However, indicative sizes for the enclosures, both feeding cells and outdoors
of important wild animal species are given in Annexure IIA and IIB respectively
to these guidelines. The indicative sizes for outdoors are minimum, zoo
operator should always try to provide for larger and bigger outdoor to the
extent possible.
The area of the outdoor enclosures for herbivore safari and carnivore safari
should not be less than 30 hectares and 20 hectares respectively. Mini zoos
being operated as Deer Parks and displaying mega species should not be of
less than five hectares.
These dimensions will not apply to Circuses. However, when not in transit, the
circuses shall provide the animals space for movement and exercise.
Display of animals in nature immersing enclosures
(1) Landscape around every animal exhibit/ enclosure should
comprise of plantations of appropriate tree and shrub species of
adequate extent and such shape that the enclosure should not be
visible to the visitors form any place other than the animal viewing
areas.
(2) All the hard exteriors of the enclosure i.e. the enclosure barrier
and the frontage of the feeding cells, feeding kraals should be
effectively camouflaged through planting of bamboo, dwarf tree
species and shrubs.
(3) Planting of appropriate trees and shrubs should be done around
the animal viewing areas to break up the visitors into small viewing
groups.
(4) Visitors should be made to move through the green landscape
around the enclosure for reasonable distances.
(5) Planting, appropriate trees species should be done in the
enclosure to ensure that entire animal enclosure is not visible to
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
the visitors from any of the viewing points. The animal should be
seen to the visitors in near natural settings.
Making the animal enclosures safe for animals, animal keepers and the
visitors
(a) Enclosure Barrier
Barrier of every enclosure should be of a design, dimension and material
that can effectively contain the animals housed within the enclosure and
safeguard against any animal escaping from the enclosure. Due care
should also be taken to ensure that the shutters and doors fitted in
the enclosure, kraal and feeding cell are of such material and design
that these can not be broken/ opened by the animals housed in the
enclosure. The barriers of all the enclosures, except the animal viewing
area could comprise of natural cliffs (if any), wall, glass, power fence
or chain-link fence, etc. of prescribed dimensions. However, in animal
exhibit enclosures, provision of a moat could be made in the animal
viewing area, to facilitate the visitors in having an unobstructed view
of the animals without getting close to them. Wet moats shall normally
not be used as enclosure barrier for the viewing area except in case
of water loving animals. The total land area under moat should not
exceed 20% of the land area of the enclosure. The indicative design
type and dimensions of enclosure barrier are given in Appendix III to
these guidelines.
(b) Other safeguards :
(i) Due care should be taken to ensure that no power line/ power
cable passes over any animal enclosure.
(ii) Enclosure barrier should be erected/ constructed at a safe
distance from such trees that can aid the animals to escape from
the enclosure or damage the enclosure barrier.
(iii) Where walls are used as enclosure barriers, due care should be
taken to plaster the same with such proportion of cement mix that
the plaster does not wither away leaving gaps that could be used
by the animal as holds for escaping out of the enclosure.
(iv) Live wire overhangs or chainlink should be used to prevent the
animals from escaping out of the enclosure.
(v) Water pipelines and sanitary fittings should be fixed within the
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Guidelines for facilitating effective and scientific management of zoos in India in
consonance with Rule 10 of Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 (Amendment) Rules, 2013
enclosure in such a manner that the same can not be used by the
animal as aid to escape from the enclosures.
(vi) Adequately deep foundation to be provided for enclosure barrier
housing the burrowing species.
(vii) Attention should be given to different barrier materials, fixtures,
shutters etc. to see that they are safe and cannot be broken or
cause injuries to animals.
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Guidelines for facilitating effective and scientific management of zoos in India in
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4. Elephant Enclosures
The elephants being voracious eaters and producers of extraordinary amount
of solid wastes can not be maintained aesthetically in the display enclosures.
Presence of ‘mahaouts and chara cutters’ makes the issue of aesthetic
display further complicated. It would therefore be desirable to leave elephants
in display enclosure without chain for limited period of 6 to 8 hours. For rest
of the time, the elephants should be kept in elephant houses of appropriate
designs in off the display areas at isolated places. Elephants can be loosely
chained with spikeless chains for their own safety. However, suitable padding
should also be provided on their legs to safeguard against injuries being
caused on account of chaining in twilight.
Schedule 4 (5-6)
Environmental Enrichment
Any wild animal living free in nature carries out wide range of activities viz
foraging, exploration, territorial patrolling, marking territorial boundaries,
avoiding predators, wallowing, climbing, burrowing and seeking mates etc. Its
social behaviour includes parenting, courtship and other interactive activities
viz. chasing each other and indulging in mock fights. All these activities
involve constant alertness of visual, olefactory and adulatory stimuli. Even
during the inactivity period in wild, the animals are involved in setting up and
construction of secure refuges such as nests, burrows, dens, searching tree
holes etc.
There is no denying the fact that it is neither feasible nor practical to simulate
the conditions of wild in the zoo, still the zoo operators can provide the zoo
animals ample opportunities to express their natural behaviour through
imaginative enclosure designing and planned enrichment. The technical
help of behavioural biologists may be obtained in developing the appropriate
enrichment plan for the wild animals.
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Behavioural Enrichment :
(i) Keep animals in compatible social groups. Provide adequate
three dimensional space for exercising the normal movement
behaviour patterns i.e. walking, flying and climbing.
(ii) Provide suitable substrate to facilitate the animals to satisfy their
digging, burrowing and exploratory instincts.
(iii) Provide suitable trees, shrubs and bushes in the enclosures to
provide the animals opportunities for climbing, swinging, feeding,
clawing, playing, rubbing the antlers, etc. Trees take substantial
time in growing to required sizes, during the interim period,
appropriately sized logs/ branches of trees could be used to meet
the behavioural needs of the animals. There should be provision
of alternative enclosures for the ungulates living in larger social
groups, bears and primates so that the animals could be shifted
from one enclosure to the other to facilitate recovery of vegetation.
(iv) Burrows/ dens could also be constructed to facilitate the animals
to hibernate or to take shelter during extreme weather conditions.
(v) Plant grass and reeds to provide cover area for the animals.
(vi) Fix mud pots, tree hollows, bamboo baskets to meet nesting and
egg laying by birds.
Remarks :
Use of nylon ropes, tyres, and swings should normally be avoided because
these do not add to the over all aesthetics and natural environment of the
enclosure. These should be used as last resort, when functional requirement
of animal can not be met with natural enrichment materials.
Schedule 4 (9)
Providing effective Stand off Barriers
Minimum height and distance of stand off barriers from the enclosure barriers
should be as follows :
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Schedule 4 (10)
Appropriate educational signage
(i) Signage boards should be made of weather proof, durable, tough
and strong material which can last for reasonably long durations
and can be reused and repainted.
(ii) The signboards should be attractive but due care should be taken
to ensure that this should not obstruct animal viewing, legible
from reasonable distance and should highlight details about the
biology, behaviour, distribution and conservation status of the
species. Interesting informations like animal diet and longevity
should also be highlighted.
(iii) Signboards should not be loaded with too many informations.
Signboards should be understandable to a child/ average literate
person.
(iv) Appropriate graphic illustrations should be provided on sign
boards to explain ecological linkages, taxonomical relationships
and evolution of species.
(v) Signage should also provide information on the conservation
efforts being made in the country and the role being played by
zoos in this regard.
(vi) Signage should be designed in such a way that they catch the
attention of the visitors and the visitors are tempted to read them.
(vii) Negative signages like the animal being cattle lifter/ man
eater should not be displayed as these dilute the message of
conservation.
(viii) Signages should be monitored and evaluated regularly and
updated constantly.
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Interpretation facilities
Animal - habitat relationship, population dynamics, animal adaptations,
animal evolution, ecological role of animals are some of the important areas
for interpretation. Interactive devices to get some feel of main strengths
of various species, history of animal management in zoos through obsolete
animal exhibits- may also interest the visitors.
Nature trails to educate the visitors on local species of fauna and flora in
well managed hedge and tree groves and water bodies can help in providing
the visitors insight to nature and generate empathy for wildlife. Recorded
commentary on different facts about animals in the vehicle used for different
safari’s can be excellent educational material. Deployment of trained zoo
guides for use of visitor groups shall be quite effective
Schedule 5 (1)
Viable groups of animal collection
(1) zoo operators should keep a close watch on the animals housed
in every enclosure and any animal that is unduly aggressive and
causing grievious injuries to other animals and its continuance at
the enclosure is risky to the life of other animals of the enclosure
shall be removed from the group/ herd at the earliest and taken to
isolation enclosures in off the display area and kept under close
observation.
(2) Efforts to reintroduce the animal in the original herd/ group,
alternative herd/ group should be made as soon as the animal has
mellowed down, taking adequate safety measures/ precautions.
Explanation Reproductive behaviour of various species should be
studied and understood thoroughly so that it is not confused with
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Schedule 5 (2)
Quality of food for animals
(1) Feed supplied to animals should not only meet the nutritional
requirements but should also meet the functional need of animals.
(2) The feed should be hygienic and of high quality.
(3) Appropriate food supplements should be added in the animal
feeds to avoid nutritional deficiencies or specific needs.
(4) Larger cat should be provided meat with bones. Occasionally,
they should be allowed to feed on full carcasses, if feasible.
Pieces of liver should always be added to the meat supplied to the
carnivores.
(5) Ungulates should be provided with tree fodder, wherever feasible
in addition to other fodders. Salt licks should also be provided at
appropriate places in their enclosures.
Schedule 5 (3)
Placement and timing of feeding
(1) Mammalian species should be provided feed in the feeding cells/
feeding kraals on a sterile surface. However, the animals should
not be required to stay on a hard surface beyond the feeding time.
(2) Feed for the animals living in social groups should be sub divided
and placed at as many locations as necessary to safeguard
against weak and young animals remaining under nourished.
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(3) For satisfying the behavioural instincts, the feed for bears and
primates could be hidden in log hollows, burrows, etc.
(4) Hidden scattered feed dispensation devices could be used
whereever necessary.
Timing of Feeding
(1) Larger animals which are fed only once a day should be provided
their full diet towards the closing hours of the zoo for the visitors.
(2) Intermittent feeding in small quantities could be done to manage
and keep the animals active.
Schedule 5 (4)
Feeding Cells and Kraals
(i) Every animal enclosure would be provided with feeding cells and
feeding kraals at the farthest point from the animal viewing area.
No animal would be provided feed in the main enclosure.
(ii) The design and size of the feeding cells and feeding kraals
should be such that these do not stand out and affect the natural
environment of the enclosure. To achieve this goal the feeding cell
should be constructed in depressed ground, whenever feasible, in
other cases feeding cells and kraals should be screened through
plantations of appropriate species.
(iii) All the feeding kraals should have pucca floors and should be
covered from the top. Approach to the service door of the feeding
kraal should not be through the main enclosure. These should
be serviced through a service gallery which is so designed that
adequate natural light and aeration is maintained in the gallery.
(iv) Animals should be in the feeding cells/ kraals/ indoor enclosures
only for such duration as it is absolutely necessary for ensuring
better health, physical comfort and security of the animal. The
number and the area of feeding kraals should be decided on the
basis of the number of animals housed in the enclosure.
Schedule 5 (6-9)
General behaviour and healthcare
Veterinary care/ treatment to any animal should be provided causing minimum
possible stress to it. With this objective, every enclosure should have inbuilt
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facilities for restraining/ examining and treating the animal at the enclosure
itself. No animal should be shifted from its enclosure to the treatment ward in
the hospital/ isolation ward unless its continuance at the enclosure involves
risk of other animals being infected by the disease or the sick animal requires
intensive care/ supervision round the clock. The animal so removed from the
enclosure should be brought back to the enclosure and introduced in to its
social group/ herd as soon as it has recovered from the disease and is fit to
fend for itself in the group. Keeping the animals for long durations away from
the social group/ herd may lead to problems at the time of reintroduction of
the animal in the group/ herd.
Schedule 5 (10)
Record Keeping
Every zoo should have mechanism for recording of observations regarding
social, biological and reproductive behaviour and health status of zoo animals
including preventive and curative treatment provided, birth and care of young
ones, sicknesses and mortalities as per details given below:-
Keeper’s Diary
The Keepers/ In-charges of all sections or beats under the Animal Section of
a zoo should maintain keeper’s diary in the format as Annexed IV-A, giving
animal/ specie-wise details of all the important events and activities pertaining
to his section/ beat. The format should be in vernacular language and should
be available with the Keeper in the shape of printed ledger register with serial
numbered pages. There should be 2 pages with each serial number so that
one copy of the report also remains in ledger register after submission of the
second copy to the Incharge, Animal Section daily through his supervising
officer before submission the supervisor should also record own comment on
the Keeper’s Diary.
Daily Report
Curator (Animal)/ Incharge, Animal Section of zoo should compile the
important aspects of the reports submitted by the Keepers of the different
sections/ beats (Keepers diary) in the format as given in Annexure IV-B and
submit the same daily within two hours of opening of the zoo to the Director
through the Veterinary Officer. The Incharge, Animal Section; Veterinary
Officer and Director of the zoo shall record their observations/ comments in
the daily report and take the required action accordingly. Copy of the daily
report will go back to the Incharge, Animal Section the same day after the
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biologist has made necessary entries into the Animal History Cards of the
animals/ species reported upon.
Studbook
Studbook of all the animals of endangered species including those born under
the planned conservation breeding programme shall be maintained in the
format at Annexure-IVD by the biologists of the zoos and National Studbook
Keepers of each identified species.
Treatment Card
Individual treatment card for each identifiable animal should be initiated and
maintained by the zoo veterinarian in the format at Annexure-IV E, giving
date-wise observations made and treatment given to the animal through out
its life. The treatment card shall always remain at the place where the animal
is housed/ kept. For the individuals which are not identifiable, the treatment
cards should also be initiated and maintained species wise. The copies of the
same should also be kept at the place where the individual is housed/ kept
along with other members of the species.
Remarks- The zoos should endeavor to acquire and become members of the
National/International Record Keeping System/softwares like International
Species Information System (ISIS)/Zoological Information Management
System (ZIMS) for scientific management of zoo populations.
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(1) Not more than one animal will be tranquilized at a time. Second animal
should be tranquilized only after the animal tranquilized earlier has fully
recovered.
(2) Tranquilization will be carried out by a team comprising of 3-4 persons.
Visitors and the other zoo staff, who are not involved in the operation,
should not be permitted to be present at the time of tranquilization.
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(3) Tranquilization of any animal shall be done in a manner that the animal
is not unduly stressed by way of chasing and making noise.
(4) All precautions and safeguards given in the literature supplied with the
drugs should be followed.
(5) The physical parameters like body temperature, heart beat, muscle
reflexes, eyelid movement, and respiratory rates should be constantly
monitored till the animal has fully recovered. Necessary mitigative
measures would be taken as soon as some abnormalities in these
parameters are observed.
(6) It shall be ensured that the animal during the recovery phase is kept in
a position that the chances of arrest of heart beat and the saliva/ food
particles getting into lungs are totally ruled out.
(7) The animal shall be kept under close observation for at least 24 hours
after its revival.
(8) It is advisable to tranquilize the animal during the cooler parts of the day.
(9) In case the body temperature is high, the body should be covered with
wet cloth.
(10) The eyes should be covered to prevent exposure to bright light.
(11) Tranquilization should not be carried out in an area close to a water
body to prevent drowning of animal during tranquilization.
(12) Before tranquilization operation, the prescribed human antidote should
be loaded and kept with another person for immediate administration
when such need arises, due to the narcotic drugs contact with human
body.
Schedule 6 (6)
Linkages with eminent institutions/ organizations working in the field of
wild animal healthcare
All the recognized zoos in India have been provided with basic animal
healthcare facilities as per the category of the zoo and its animal collection.
This should suffice for day-to-day management of zoo and healthcare of the
animals kept there. The zoos have been asked not to acquire sophisticated
and costly diagnostic equipments unless there is adequate technical
manpower to operate and use the same.
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The Central Zoo Authority has signed MoU with Indian Veterinary Research
Institute, Bareilly to act as National Referral Centre to provide super
specialized services and diagnostic facilities for better animal healthcare in
Indian zoos. In case the zoos feel that the agreement arrived by them with
the organization/ institutions within the region are not able to provide required
specialized healthcare, they can approach the National Referral Centre for (a)
getting baseline data on the health parameters of various species of animals
(b) micro biological, bio-chemical and pathological analysis of the samples
taken from live animals and histopathological and forensic examination of
tissues and organs of dead animals. The National Referral Centre shall not
normally be able to entertain requests for diagnosing and treating the cause
of sick animals of zoos/ regional referral centres except on a request by the
Central Zoo Authority to tackle the extra-ordinarily situation that cannot be
effectively handled by the regional referral centres.
The Committee should be kept involved with the visits of the team of the
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Regional Referral Centre to the zoo. It should also be taken into confidence
about the implementation of the advice rendered by the Regional Referral
Centre/ National Referral Centre on treatment and management of sick
animals. Zoo Director and the Curator (animal) should be actively involved in
the meetings of the Health Advisory Committee.
Organization of hands on training for zoo veterinarians
The Central Zoo Authority should facilitate the National Referral Centre to
have hands on training of the veterinarians posted/working with the zoos at
the place identified by the centre.
These trainings could be held on national or regional level with support from
the Central Zoo Authority.
Decision to euthanize any animal shall be taken only on the basis of the
recommendations of the committee constituted for the purpose by the Chief
Wildlife Warden of the State on the recommendations from the Director of the
zoo to the effect that:-
(1) The animal is terminally ill and is in such state of agony and pain that it
is cruel to keep it alive.
(2) The animal is suffering from incurable diseases of infectious nature and
keeping the animal alive poses a serious threat to the health of other
animals at the zoo.
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Schedule 9 (1-5)
Exchange of animals
Central Zoo Authority shall grant approval for exchange of animals of
Schedule I and II subject to following norms and safeguards :
(i) All the exchange proposals for zoo animals shall be decided on
the basis of information available in the studbooks about the
pedigree of the animal and its likely contribution in maintaining
the hetrogygosity level of the species in the breeding programme.
The order of priority for allocating the animals under the planned
coordinated conservation breeding programme shall be as
follows:
i. Coordinating zoo
ii. Participating Indian zoo
iii. Participating foreign zoo
iv. Other Indian zoos having appropriate upkeep and
healthcare facilities and required technical expertise.
(ii) Exchange proposals for the species which are not candidate for
planned breeding programme shall also be approved having due
regard to strengthening of the breeding gene pool for the planned
breeding programmes.
(iii) Gift of animals to zoos outside the country shall also be made
having due regard to the interests of conservation breeding and
long term conservation of wildlife.
(iv) The zoos having single male/ unpaired male should spare the
same to provide mates to unpaired females housed at other zoos
as directed by the Central Zoo Authority. The recipient zoo shall
bear the cost of crating and transportation of the animals.
(v) The Central Zoo Authority while approving other exchange
proposals shall give preference to such zoos who are complying
with the conditions stipulated at the time of grant of recognition
and the provision of Recognition of Zoo Rules, and having housing
and upkeep facilities and the climate congenial for the long term
survival of the animals proposed to be acquired by the zoo.
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Schedule 9 (6-8)
Conservation Breeding
Conservation breeding of identified endangered species shall be taken up in
India and the Central Zoo Authority shall coordinate conservation breeding
programmes of identified critically endangered species in Indian Zoos at
national level with following objectives:
(i) Developing physically, genetically and behaviourally viable
populations of healthy animals of identified species for the
purpose of display in zoos.
(ii) Developing physically, genetically and behaviourally viable
populations of healthy animals to act as insurance and raise stock
for rehabilitating them in wild as and when it is appropriate and
desirable.
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For genetic health analysis and for reproduction potential evaluation, help
of LaCONES shall be taken before induction of any founder animal into the
breeding programme. The National Referral Centre as well as LaCONES
should continuously be kept involved into the breeding programme. In case
of breeding failure detailed reproductive examination could be conducted and
if necessary assisted reproduction methods could be used.
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Record keeping
Individual animal history card for each animal would be maintained giving
details of pedigree, date of birth, identification mark, studbook number in the
format prescribed by the Central Zoo Authority. Zoos having the individuals
which are part of the breeding programme will report every birth and death
of the animal to the National Studbook Keeper and the Central Zoo Authority
within 24 hours of the same. The National Studbook Keeper shall give national
studbook number to each individual under the programme. The National
Studbook Keeper (coordinating zoo) of the species would act as the species
coordinator and would issue guidance to the respective zoos regarding the
destination each animal is to be sent i.e. for purposes of breeding or display.
The species coordinator would also decide as to when particular animal is to
be taken out of the breeding programme. The Central Zoo Authority would
also be consulted regularly while making decisions mentioned above.
Price Tags
No zoo will ask for any costs/ animals in exchange for sending any animal
for the programme to the other zoos in compliance of the direction of the
Central Zoo Authority on the basis of National Studbook Keeper’s/ Species
Coordinator’s recommendation.
Schedule 9 (9)
Population Control Measures
The zoo operator should ensure that the number of each species housed in
the zoo remains within the limit stipulated in the collection plans of the zoo
and the carrying capacity of the housing facilities available with the zoo.
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Schedule 9 (10)
Safeguards against animals escaping from the animal enclosures/ zoo
(1) The perimeter wall/ fence of the zoo/ enclosure barriers should be
inspected regularly for identifying the weak points/ likely breaches/
unnoticed designing defects which could be used by the animals to
escape from the enclosure/ zoo and getting the same rectified and
repaired on top priority.
(2) The trees standing close to the barrier/ perimeter wall should be
regularly pruned and lopped as may be necessary to prevent escape of
animals from the enclosure/ zoo.
(3) Pieces of logs, poles that can be used by animals as aid to escape
should not be allowed to remain lying in the enclosure.
(4) Round the clock security should be maintained to prevent the intruders
entering the zoo and damaging the enclosure barriers, harm the animals
in zoo and damage/ steal other valuable property.
Schedule 9 (11-12)
Release of zoo animals into the wild
Release of genetically, biologically and behaviourally viable zoo bred animals
in an objective and planned manner in accordance with a well conceived
guidelines is an important tool for conservation of wildlife. However, unplanned
release of zoo bred animals of unknown pedigree and genetic make up and
poor health status often lead to disastrous consequences. In this background
strict adherence to the guidelines while releasing any zoo bred/ captive bred
animals into the wild is crucial.
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Objectives of release of zoo bred/ captive bred animals into the wild
1. Augmenting the depleting number of endangered species in any
ecosystem.
2. Reintroducing the species in an area which was part of its historical
range, from which the species has disappeared or become extinct due
to various factors.
3. Introduction of the species in areas outside its recorded range of
distribution, in the habitat that have the potential to hold and support the
species on a sustained basis without becoming a vermin/ pest.
4. Experimental releases for developing expertise in rehabilitating the zoo
bred/ captive bred animals in the wild and preparing detailed protocol
for planned release of the species for any of above objectives.
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Strategy for successful release of zoo bred/ captive bred animals in the wild
A. Preparatory phase
I. Biological
(i) Assessment of taxanomic status of the animals earmarked for the
release and ensuring that they pertain to the same species/race
that is naturally occurring/ occurred in the area.
(ii) Assessment of the critical needs of the species to be released
including habitat preferences, intra specific variations and
adaptations to the local ecological conditions, social behaviour
and group dynamics, home range shelter and food requirements,
foraging and feeding behaviour, predators and diseases etc. Over
all to have and analyse a firm knowledge of the natural history of
the species to be released.
(iii) Species if any, that has filled in the void created by the extinction of
the species from the area and effect of the release on the status of
the population of that species.
(iv) Determining the optimal number of animals that can be released
each year and most appropriate period for the release.
(v) Evaluation of previous releases of the species and identification
of the problems, mitigation of which is crucial, and priority areas
which need to be attended for making the release successful.
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Socio-economic-Legal Requirements
(i) Socio-Economic studies should be made to assess the impacts,
costs and benefits of the proposed release to the local population.
(ii) Thorough assessment of the attitude of the local people to the
proposed release project should be made and their apprehension
if any, should be properly redressed. No release of animals in wild
should be made in the wild against the wishes of the local people.
(iii) Public awareness programme about the benefits of proposed
release should be made both through print media and electronic
media.
General
(i) The execution of all the phases of the release programme should
be carried out under the supervision of multi disciplinary team of
experts.
(ii) Long term and short term indicators for quantifying the success of
the release programme should be identified.
(iii) Detailed programme for all the phases of the release should be
developed so that each stage can be meticulously implemented in
planned and scientific manner.
(iv) Necessary vaccinations against local endemic and epidemic
diseases should be given to all the livestock that is likely to share
the habitat with the released species.
(v) Transport plan for the animals should be so prepared and
executed that no mortalities take place during the transport.
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The Central Zoo Authority provides grant for local need based zoo research
projects in the field of ex-situ conservation and scientific management of
animals in Indian zoos. The zoos may appoint fresh post graduates of the
field of wildlife science, veterinary science, zoology and botany to work in
project mode on the identified areas of research.
The Ministry of Environment & Forests also gives fellowships for carrying out
research on wildlife namely Salim Ali fellowship for carrying out studies on
birds and Kailash Sankhala Award for carrying out studies on wild animals.
The zoos should encourage their staff to take advantage of these schemes,
and carryout research on ex-situ conservation of wildlife.
*****
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Being concerned with the state of management of zoos in the country Hon’ble
Supreme Court of India, vide their order dated 27.11.2000, have directed that
the State Governments and Union Territories shall not set up any new zoo
without getting approval of Central Zoo Authority and order of the Hon’ble
Supreme Court. A provision has also been made by the Central Government
in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to the effect that no new zoo shall be
established without prior approval of the Central Zoo Authority.
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Guidelines for grant of approval by the Central Zoo Authority for establishment
of new zoo under section 38H (1A) of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972
Being concerned with the state of management of zoos in the country Hon’ble
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Supreme Court of India, vide their order dated 27.11.2000, have directed that
the State Governments and Union Territories shall not set up any new zoo
without getting approval of Central Zoo Authority and order of the Hon’ble
Supreme Court. A provision has also been made by the Central Government
in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to the effect that no new zoo shall be
established without prior approval of the Central Zoo Authority.
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expertise available with the zoo. Having adopted a particular theme, zoo
should strictly follow it. Any deviations from the theme would result in
paranoic displays sending wrong conservation message and convert the zoo
into a unplanned wild animal display facility.
Adopting themes based on local/ regional animals suited to the local climate
have greater chances of success. Highly endangered species should
normally not be made part of thematic displays.
Under the present state of management of zoos taxonomic displays with few
specialized display on bio-geographic/ ecosystem themes shall be a practical
approach.
Due safeguards should be taken so that visitor road does not pass through
the area adjoining the animal feeding cells, feeding kraals, animal service
areas, service road and off the exhibit areas.
If required, zoo could fix different timings for visitors viewing specific animal
facilities.
All civic amenities and visitor facilities should preferably be located by the
side of main road only.
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(a) Space available to each species/ animal and the space actually required
for housing all the animals of all the species held in its stock, as per
prescribed norms.
(b) Past and present performance of the zoo in upkeep, healthcare
including the congeniality of the local climate for upkeep of the species.
(c) Records of births and deaths of the animals of each species and the
survival of the young ones.
(d) Cost of upkeep and healthcare of each species.
(e) Adopted theme of the zoo and the relevance of the species in the
thematic display.
(f) Species identified for planned conservation breeding by the zoo.
(g) Species with surplus number of animals which are available with other
zoos.
Following should be the guiding principles for finalizing the collection plans for
different categories of zoos in Indian conditions
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V. Rescue Centre
Identified problem wild animal species and orphaned, infirm captive animals
not fit for display of the area/ locality/ ecosystem the Rescue Centre is part of:-
(i) All rescued sick or injured wild animals should be rehabilitated
back in wild or in regular lifetime care facility/zoo/rescue centre
within 30 days of treatment/ healing depending upon the condition/
suitability of the individuals.
(ii) All seized wild animals should also be rehabilitated back in wild
or in regular lifetime care facility/ zoo/ rescue centre depending
upon the condition/ suitability of the individuals with 30 days of the
seizure after getting permission of the court dealing with the case.
(iii) All rescued/ abandoned young wild animal should only be reared
in nurseries attached to the Veterinary facilities/ hospitals of the
recognized zoos/ rescue centres.
V. Specialized Zoo
Exclusive (Reptile/ Snake/ rodent/ bird/nocturnal/ aquatic park and aquarium
etc.) specialized zoo may decide housing animals of one step above level i. e.
small of region, medium of nation, large of international level in its collection
plan.
2. On the basis of the result of the review as mentioned above, list out the
species and the number of animals of each species that are necessary
for planned thematic display and conservation breeding in the zoo.
3. With a view to enhance the conservation role of the zoo, some of
the glamorous mega specie may have to be excluded from the list
to accommodate the animal of endangered species and designing of
outstanding exhibits.
Taking into consideration the outcome of detailed analysis as mentioned
above, draw out the final list of the species and the number of animals
of each species to be housed in the zoo. Fewer species with viable
population are always preferable to a collection of larger number of
species with non viable numbers.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
142
Guidelines for Preparation of Master Plan for long term development of zoos
Management Plan
Every zoo should prepare a management plan listing out the activities to
be taken up by the zoo for implementing the master plan over next 5 years
indicating realistic costs of executing the identified activities and financial
year wise targets both physical and financial including anticipated source of
funding.
Detailed strategy for achieving the target should also be explained in explicit
and elaborate manners.
*****
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
The Format
Part-I
Chapters
Part-II
Chapters
144
Guidelines for Preparation of Master Plan of Zoos
4. Disaster management
Plan to address problems faced during the natural calamities (Fire
control, flood, cyclone situations, law and order break down, feed
supply etc.)
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
5. Contingency plan
(1) Animal rescued from wild.
(2) Escape of animals from enclosures.
(3) Monkey and dog menace.
(4) Arrangement of food in case of strike (non supply by contractor)
(5) Snake bite.
(6) Visitors getting injured/visitors falling inside enclosure.
(7) Fighting among animals
(8) Epidemics
(9) Breakdown of power supply
6. Capacity building
Plan to upgrade skills of zoo staff, interaction with other zoos - regional
cooperation.
7. E-governance
8. Broad budget analysis for implementing the plan
a) Construction and development
b) Day to day maintenance
9. Annexures to the Master Plan
I. Existing zoos requiring modernisation:-
Layout plan depicting the present setup (animal enclosures,
administrative building, visitor amenities, roads etc). Older maps, if
available to indicate stages of development.
Existing animal collection plan/ inventory
Free living species occurring in the zoo campus
Flora and fauna
Present staffing pattern and position
List of buildings other than animal enclosures
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Guidelines for Preparation of Master Plan of Zoos
MANAGEMENT PLAN
The management plan shall be a document which will detail out the activities
to be taken up in the line indicated in the Master Plan of the zoo for a particular
time frame (1year to 5years), prioritising of the works to be taken up in phases
and financial year wise and provide realistic estimates of the proposed works
indicating the sources of funding. This should also contain revenue to be
collected and funding expected to be received from the government and other
sources.
Strategy to be adopted for achieving the goals defined in the Master Plan
(Part-II).
The management plan should also contain the procedure to be adopted and
person responsible for carrying out different items of works with their financial
and administrative powers.
In other words this will be a working document that will guide the managers
of the zoo for the management plan period and facilitate the budgeting
and focussed development. This will help any new incumbent to carryout
development without dislocation.
*****
147
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
1. Facilities related to the zoo and its staff within the zoo campus
1 a. Creation of staff quarters within the zoo campus
As mandatory under Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009, Rule 10, Schedule 1
(6) that no residential colonies for staff shall be constructed within the zoo
premises following category of staff should be separated by a boundary wall
from the animal exhibit areas:-
(i) Director/ Officer– in – charge of the zoo
(ii) Officials and staff under Animal Section
(iii) Officials and staff under Veterinary Section
(iv) Security personnel’s (if possible)
Where such colonies already exist, the same shall be separated from the
zoo premises by a boundary wall with a minimum height of 2 meters from
the ground level. The entry to the residential colony shall not be through the
zoo premises.
148
Additional Guidelines Incorporating Prohibitory provisions for the
preparation of Master Plan for the long-term development of the Zoos
1 f. Vermicompost
The organic matter segregated from the garbage generated in the zoo should
be used for vermiculture, if the zoo has adequate land and financial resources
for the purpose. The zoo should construct vermiculture pits either outside the
zoo premises or in a secluded area far away from the main zoo.
Every zoo shall carry out its operations in a manner that causes minimum
stress on natural resources and produces the minimum of solid wastes
and effluents. The zoo shall also endeavour to put in place the practices
of effective waste management through reducing, reusing and recycling
and disposing the effluents and solid wastes in a manner that causes least
adverse environmental impact, as mandatory under Rule 10, Schedule 1(7)
of the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009.
2 b. Boating
No zoo should allow boating activities inside the water bodies used as
wintering ground by migratory birds. The existing boating facilities could
however be continued in a very regulated manner, ensuring that it does not
disturb the zoo animals in the nearby enclosures.
No new water body should be created in any zoo for creating boating facilities.
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2 h. Rest houses/hotels
The creation of rest houses/ hotels within the zoo premises should not be
permitted.
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Additional Guidelines Incorporating Prohibitory provisions for the
preparation of Master Plan for the long-term development of the Zoos
(i) By increasing the entrance fee for the visitors on particular days.
(ii) Increasing the working hours of the zoo.
It is also recommended that the zoo should assess its carrying capacity and
try to limit the number of visitors accordingly.
2 k. Weekly closures
It is recommended that for better management, all the recognized zoos
should be closed for a day in a week.
2 m. Animal ride
No animal, forming part of the display, should be used for animal ride.
Elephants and Yaks could be used for joy rides as per Zoo Recognition
Rules but the same would be operated and housed outside the zoo display
area.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
2 p. Souvenir shops
The zoos may provide souvenir shops at an appropriate place within the zoo
or at the entrance.
2 r. Film shooting
The film shooting within the zoo campus may be allowed, without causing any
disturbance to the animals and the welfare of the animals.
2 s. Animal adoption
The “animal adoption” to raise funds in Zoos for its scientific management
may be adopted. However, signages provided by the funding agencies at the
animal enclosure should merge with the natural environment of the zoo. It
was also suggested that feeding, veterinary care, animal management of the
animals should be done as per the rules.
2 t. Telephone booths
The telephones are considered as an essential service today, the same
should be allowed at appropriate places.
2 u. Museum
The creation of new museum in the zoo should be discouraged and the
existing zoos having museums should be asked to separate these from the
animal exhibit area.
2 v. Botanical gardens
The Botanical gardens in zoos should be encouraged which may also include
butterfly park, arboretum, green houses, nurseries, orchidarium and green
shops.
2 x. Use of generators
The zoos which are located in remote areas and do not receive adequate
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Additional Guidelines Incorporating Prohibitory provisions for the
preparation of Master Plan for the long-term development of the Zoos
amount of power supply, may use generators which are noiseless and
pollution free.
2 y. Veterinary hospital
As mandatory under the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 1992 for the large, medium
and small zoos to have a full fledged veterinary hospital and a small treatment
facility in mini zoos & rescue centres. The zoos may also have laboratory and
research facility attached to the veterinary hospital, if required.
*****
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
S. Yes No
No.
1 Cover Page indicating the Name of the Zoo, Operator of
the Zoo, Duration of the Master Plan, Year of Submission
etc.
2 The duration of the master plan should be 20/10 years
with the provision of revision after 10 years.
3 Certificate stating the Master Plan has been prepared
by the following (name of the person, designation) and
should contain their signature. Space should be left for
the Member Secretary, Central Zoo Authority for counter
signature.
4 List of Contents (with page no.)
5 Acknowledgement
6 Preface by an competent authority
7 Foreword by an competent authority etc.
8 PART-I
Chapter – I
Introduction
a. History of the Zoo
b. Vision of the Zoo
c. Mission of the Zoo
d. Strategy of the Zoo
e. Objectives
f. Physical features like the topography of the area
g. Geology
h. Rock & Soil
i. Flora and fauna in Zoo premises
j. Climate
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Check-List for Master Plan Submission
k. Rainfall
l. Season
m. Approach
n. Demography of the surrounding area
o. Legal Status of the Land
p. Sources of Pollution, if any
(for an existing zoo, the introduction section may also
include, the present ground situation, layout, description of
different facilities, difficulties faced in the management in
the past and achievements)
9 Chapter – 2
Appraisal of the present arrangement and constraints
a. Animal section, veterinary section, store and feed
supply section, sanitation section, maintenance
section, security section, water supply section,
disposal of solid waste & liquid waste-sewerage,
visitors amenities, lawns and gardens-landscape
section and any other section peculiar to the zoo
b. Animal Collection plan (existing)
c. General Zoo administration section
d. Research
e. Conservation breeding
f. Education and awareness
g. Any other activity peculiar/ unique to the zoo
10 PART-II
Chapter-III
Future objective including vision, mission statement/
theme and strategy.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
11 Chapter - IV
Future action plan
i) Proposed/ recommended animal collection plan
including population size (in tabular form, showing
the existing no. of animals) and justification of
keeping the endangered species.
ii) Description of the layout plan of the zoo -
Layout map should be drawn on a scale 1:1000 to
1:5000 depending on area of the zoo with contour
interval to be between 1mt to 5mt depending on
topography, should also contain signatures of
concerned authorities i.e Zoo Director/Curator,
Chief Wildlife Warden/ Municipal Commissioner/Zoo
Operator.
iii) Director arrow on the layout plan e.g. North/South
direction.
iv) Legend on layout plan
a. The Layout Plan should show existing features like
water bodies, precipices, forest patches, historical
ruins, natural drainage, water channel, rock outcrops
etc.
b. visitor and service circulation
c. Other amenities
d. site for disposal of carcass
e. Separate map for electricity supply lines
f. Separate map showing arrangement for solid and
liquid waste disposal/drainage.
g. Separate map showing water distribution
h. Separate map showing sewerage line
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Check-List for Master Plan Submission
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
13 Chapter – VI
Disaster management
Plan to address problems faced during the natural
calamities (Fire control, flood, cyclone situations, law and
order break down, feed supply etc.)
14 Chapter – VII
Contingency plan
(1) Animal rescued from wild.
(2) Escape of animals from enclosures.
(3) Monkey and dog menace.
(4) Arrangement of food in case of strike (non supply by
contractor)
(5) Snake bite.
(6) Visitors getting injured/ visitors falling inside
enclosure.
(7) Fighting among animals
(8) Epidemics
(9) Breakdown of power supply etc.
(10) Free ranging animals/Feral animal menace
15 Chapter- VIII
Capacity building
Plan to upgrade skills of zoo staff, interaction with other
zoos; regional cooperation with institution
16 Chapter- IX
E-governance
17 Chapter-X
a. Broad budget analysis for implementing the plan
b. Construction and development
c. Day to day maintenance
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Check-List for Master Plan Submission
18 PART-III
Chapter- XI
Management Plan
(Budget)
Detail out the activities to be taken up in the line indicated
in the Master Plan of the zoo for a particular time frame
– year wise in tabular form, prioritising of the works to be
taken up in phases and financial year wise (as per work
plan) and provide realistic estimates of the proposed
works indicating the sources of funding. This should also
contain revenue to be collected and funding expected to be
received from the government and other sources.
The management plan should also contain the procedure
to be adopted and person responsible for carrying
out different items of works with their financial and
administrative powers.
Note: Do not indicate Central Zoo Authority (CZA) for funds
for implemeting the work plan. The CZA provides fund on
case to case basis and availability of fund to zoos.
19 PART-IV
Annexures to the Master Plan
a. Layout plan depicting the present setup (animal
enclosures {including area provided in square
meters}, mark viewing area for exhibits, location
of feeding & retiring cells, administrative building,
visitor amenities, visitors pathway, service pathway,
parking, feed store, hospital, post mortem house,
carcass disposal area, etc).
b. Separate layout map indicating distribution of
electricity line
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
160
Check-List for Master Plan Submission
*****
161
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
The following are the detailed guidelines for the Safari Parks:-
(i) The area of the outdoor enclosures for herbivore safari and carnivore
safari should not be less than 30 hectares and 20 hectares respectively.
Mini zoos being operated as Deer Parks and displaying mega species
should not be of less than five hectares.
(ii) Entry and exit to every drive through enclosure should be through a
system of double gates. There should be sufficient space in between
the two gates, to allow the gates to be securely locked at the front and
the rear of every vehicle that enters the drive through enclosure.
(iii) The gates for drive through enclosure should be so designed and
located that the person operating the gates can see and ensure that
no animal is standing near the gate at that time when the gate is being
opened for the vehicle getting into the enclosure.
(iv) Arrangement should be in place to ensure that the two gates provided
under the double gate entry and exit system do not open simultaneously.
The 2nd gate should open when the first gate has been securely locked.
(v) Design of the double gates should be such that the same can be
operated conveniently by one person only.
(vi) Visitors should be allowed to enter in the enclosure of large cats and
Bears only in closed top vehicle and the windows and glasses of the
vehicle should be kept securely locked during the period the vehicle
remains in the drive through enclosure.
(vii) Supervisory staff accompanying the vehicle should be armed with
appropriate weapons and communication equipment and should be
authorized to use the same effectively, if required to do so, to save the
visitor from attack by the animals.
(viii) Trained personnel shall be suitably positioned over the entire drive
through enclosure, on appropriately designed watch towers to keep a
watch on the movement of vehicles, the animals and intruders, if any
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Guidelines for establishing Safari Parks in the existing Zoos
and to provide necessary guidance to gate staff, the vehicle drivers and
the animal keepers in carrying out the jobs assigned to them safely and
effectively.
(ix) A rescue vehicle capable of affecting recovery of the vehicles from the
drive through enclosure should always be available at the command
of supervisory staff as long as there are any vehicles within the drive
through enclosures.
(x) The layout of roads in the drive through enclosure should be such that
the visitors can be shown all the highlights of the enclosure without
disturbing the animals in their withdrawal areas.
*****
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
1. Introduction
India is one of the rich biodiversity countries of the world which harbours a
large number of mammals (350 species), birds (1224 species), reptiles (4808
species), amphibians (197 species), fishes (2546 species), insects (57548
species) and plants (46284 species) in a large landscape of 77.47 million
hectare of forest cover. It is one of the twelve mega biodiversity country of
the world and has 8% of world biodiversity.
A study of the status of the population in captivity in zoos reveals that a large
number of species are not of important conservation value. There are few
species in the category, endangered and threatened which are housed in the
zoos. Moreover, the species do not occur in natural social group and with
unknown lineage and therefore the task of initiating a conservation breeding
programme with the available population is a challenge.
Zoos in India are regulated as per the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 1992/2009
framed under the provision of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and reflects
the policy enshrined in the National Zoo Policy, 1998. The Wild Life (Protection)
Act was amended in 1992 and a Central Zoo Authority was created to oversee
the functioning and management of zoo and to provide technical support to
facilitate the development of zoos in the country. The main objectives of zoos
as per the National Zoo Policy, 1998 is to strengthen the national efforts in
conservation of rich biodiversity of the country by supporting conservation of
endangered wild animals species by giving species which has no chance of
surviving in the wild, a last chance to coordinated breeding programme under
ex-situ conditions and raise stocks for rehabilitating them in wild as and when
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Guidelines for Conservation Breeding Programme
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
The National Zoo Policy reiterates that if population has decline in the wild it
is necessary to supplement in-situ population with the captive stock bred in
ex-situ facility. This should be qualified by the fact that each species needs
to be assessed whether it truly needs captive interventions. Many zoos feed
that they must carry out the mandate of the policy by involving in captive
breeding of endangered species and reintroduction. However, this is not the
end all they may contribute by developing husbandry, reproduction, social
behaviour and dietary protocols which will ultimately help raising a captive
breeding stock whenever required for reintroduction.
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Guidelines for Conservation Breeding Programme
strategy is reflected in the National Zoo Policy 1998 and Recognition of Zoos
2009. Now this concept is being emphasized for rescue in hundreds of species
represented several taxonomy group, captive breeding is being mandated in
the policy statement of the world conservation union (IUCN 1997). The role
of the zoos in conservation was maintaining population of threatened species
who was seen as role adapted due to the long tradition of keeping, breeding,
developing husbandry practices. The World Zoo Conservation Strategy
(IUDZG/CDSG 1993) also accepted this particular role of the zoos. A series
of global captive action plans, the IUCN Conservation Breeding Specialist
Group (CBSG) have recommended hundreds of taxa fro captive breeding,
Seal et al. (1993) recommended captive breeding for 1192 vertebrate taxa
out of 3550 examining.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
It is also possible that conservation breeding may not be the best option
because of the biology and ecology of the species which may have low
reproduction rates and therefore ex-situ conservation and in-situ conservation
recovery programmes have to be given equal importance. There is a
likelihood that the animal in captivity under those genetic behavioural and
physiological changes and in spite of best efforts to train the animal into
learning its natural trades, it may still not readapt to the natural environment
and able to forage and defend itself. In some animals reconditioning trainings
have been successful and animals have been well adapted to the natural
habitat environment after release.
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Guidelines for Conservation Breeding Programme
There are methods to reduce the rate of loss of genetic diversity based on
theoretical calculation done to initiate random mating and ideal population.
Ideally, it is better to start with as large founder captive population is possible
(Llle Rymen 1987). One simple approach is to ensure that each individual
contribute the same number of progeny to the next generation. Thus equalize
family sizes from matings of animals yield a rate of inbreeding and genetic
drift i.e. Roughly half to those generated from contribution of parents in
idealize population (Wright 1938, Wang 1997). Another more sophisticated
and scientific method and approach recommended is to use pedigree
or molecular genetic marker data to minimize mean inbreeding or kinship
coefficients between parents before generating new captive generations.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
170
Guidelines for Conservation Breeding Programme
and improved methods. Though captive breeding can form a gene pool for
hundred of species maintained in captivity for centuries and eventually as
an insurance to the wild population which may rapidly dwindle in crash.
Other limitations of the captive breeding programme are human habituation/
domestication and administrative continuity. The NOAH’s ARC has now
found acceptance as it will hold substantial gene pool which can be called as
assured survival population for the safety net population. Snyder et al. (1996)
has suggested that captive breeding should not normally be recommended or
initiated before careful field studies have been completed and comprehensive
determination has been made that preferable conservation alternatives are
not available and that captive breeding is essential for near term survival of
a species. How could a species is for captive breeding and reintroduction
depends on a number of factors, the most important one whether the species
which are subject to threat in the native habitats due to a several eliminative/
deleterious practices and such causes are unlikely to be removed and
controlled in the short-term. Conservation breeding will gain importance as
the threat to biodiversity increases and it may be an important recourse for
certain taxonomic groups which can be rehabilitated and species save for the
extinction. Zoos are predominately contributing directly to in-situ conservation
by expanding the conservation programmes beyond management of captive
population by using special techniques like assisted reproduction technology
which allow zoos to breed captive populations and through the long term
storage of genetic material using cryo preservation.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
The Central Zoo Authority, therefore pruned this list and prioritised 26
endangered species out of 73 wild animal species that have been identified
under the programme. The Central Zoo Authority in collaboration with
different zoos/ states located in the geographical distribution of the species
already launched the programme for 23 species. The Wildlife Institute of India
through wide consultation with the scientific communities has developed
criteria for prioritization and identified 26 prioritized species for Conservation
Breeding Programme.
List of 26 prioritized species for Conservation Breeding Programme
Distribution in India (wild)
Information on Breeding
Founder availability in
Founder availability in
Name of the Species
Overall rating
IUCN Status
1972 Status
captivity
captivity
protocol
Threats
the wild
1 Pygmy hog (Sus salvanius) 2 5 5 5 4 2 3 2 3 31
2 Vultures (white-backed, long-billed, slender-billed) 2 4 5 5 5 2 3 2 3 31
3 Hangul (Cervus elaphus hanglu) 3 4 5 5 5 2 1 2 3 30
4 Golden langur (Trachypithecus geei) 2 3 4 5 5 2 3 2 3 29
5 Wild buffalo (Buballus bubalis) 2 4 4 5 5 2 1 2 3 28
6 Brow-antlered deer (Cervus eldii) 3 4 4 5 2 2 3 2 3 28
7 Lion tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) 3 3 4 5 3 2 3 2 3 28
8 Red panda (Ailurus fulgens) 2 2 5 5 5 2 3 2 2 28
9 Blyth's tragopan (Tragopan blythii) 2 2 3 5 5 5 2 2 2 28
10 Asiatic lion (Panthera leo) 3 4 4 5 2 2 3 2 2 27
11 Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) 2 3 3 5 4 2 3 2 3 27
12 Western tragopan (Tragopan melanocephalus) 2 3 4 5 4 2 3 2 2 27
13 Phayre's leaf macaque (Trachypithecus phayrei) 2 3 2 5 5 2 3 2 3 27
14 Great Indian bustard 2 3 5 5 5 2 1 2 2 27
15 Wild ass (Equus hemionus khur) 2 2 4 5 5 2 3 2 2 27
16 Nilgiri langur (Semnopithecus johnii) 3 2 3 5 4 2 3 2 3 27
17 Musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster) 1 2 4 5 5 2 3 2 3 27
18 Hoolock gibbon (Hoolock leuconedys), 2 2 4 5 4 2 3 2 3 27
19 Swamp deer (Hard surface-C.d. branderi) 3 4 3 5 5 2 1 1 2 26
20 Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) 3 3 4 5 5 2 1 1 2 26
21 Floricans (Bengal & Lesser) 2 3 4 5 5 2 1 2 2 26
22 Cheer pheasant (Catreus wallichi) 2 3 3 5 4 2 3 2 2 26
23 Clouded leopard (Panthera nebulosa) 1 2 3 5 5 2 3 2 3 26
24 Painted roof turtle (Kachuga kachuga) 2 2 4 5 5 2 2 2 2 26
25 Snow leopard (Panthera uncia) 1 1 4 5 5 2 3 2 3 26
26 Shaheen falcons (Falco peregrinus) 2 1 4 5 5 2 2 2 3 26
*****
172
Guidelines for marking of Animals and Birds
1. Ringing of Birds:
Birds should be ringed in left leg. Chicks should be ringed only after
establishing parental care bond between mother and chick.
2. Ear tagging:
Animals should be tagged in left ear. In young animals with thin ears the tag
should be affixed to the thickest cartilage portion of the ears, such as the
lower half, near the base. In large and adult ungulates it may be necessary to
attach the tag to a thinner section of the ear. For ungulates of any age, care
should be taken not to puncture any large blood vessels. In general, external
tags are not recommended for amphibians and reptiles, with the exception of
turtles. In particular, tags are also to be avoided for long slender animals such
as snakes and many lizards.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
applied to close the incision. The use of tissue glue helps to ensure that the
transponder does not get ejected before the wound heals.
Marine turtles may be marked by using microchips injected into the flippers
or shoulder area; however, some microchips migrate into deeper tissues
and become unreadable. Complications with radio transponders which have
been noted include: migration of transponders if applied subcutaneously
or internally, which may make them more difficult to read; breakage of the
microchips, and loss of signals.
*****
174
Guidelines for transport of captive wild animals
3. Infants and too young, incapable of feeding themselves should also not
be transported unless prior arrangements have been made for taking all
due care for the same.
6. The related papers like animal history cards, treatment cards, health
certificate should accompany animal while transportation.
10. The floor of the container should be made removable with liquid proof
trays under the slatted floor. The slatted construction should be so
designed and constructed that the spacing between the slates in such
that there is no danger of the animals feet becoming trapped.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
13. Suitable lifting handles or gripers bars should be provided and when
the containers will be heavily loaded, the hooks for crane slings and
facilities for handling by fork-lift should also be fitted.
15. Arrangements for feeding and watering as per the requirement of the
species and duration of the journey should be provided.
16. The animals which might have been sedated before their transportation
should be transported only under the supervision of a qualified
veterinarian only and details of sedation should accompany the
animal. Partial sedation in some of the species and individuals when
recommended may also be resorted to during transportation.
19. The journey should preferably be performed during day time. The time
between 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. may be avoided during hot summers
and nights during winter.
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Guidelines for transport of captive wild animals
they are not accustomed. If this is not avoidable, the desired controlled
environment should be made available, so that they are exposed to
change climatic conditions slowly.
21. The transportation cage should be secured fully to avoid any possible
movement or sliding during transport. It is very important to ensure that
the transportation cages are kept horizontal throughout the journey.
24. While transporting the animals, due screening of the staff involved in
transportation of animal should be made and it must be ensured that
they do not infected of any such diseases that can infect the animal.
26. Arrangement for carrying water sprayers, buckets, additional ropes etc.
should also be made and tools for temporary repair of the cages may
also be carried during transportation.
28. For longer distances, the possibility of air lifting should be explored.
Lighter transport cages like fiber glass should be preferred for air
journeys. The transportation cages should not be placed in closed
wagon during transportation by rail.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
31. The senior most personnel accompanying the animal should carry
sufficient money and should have authority to spend the same to meet
any unforeseen emergency during transportation.
32. Certificate from the concerned zoo consigning the transportation should
accompany the animal and it should be mentioned that no taxes etc.
should be paid and vehicle should not be detained. This will ensure
smooth transportation without any hindrance, particularly in inter state
check gates.
33. During transportation, if there is any emergent need for any assistance
from any nearby zoo, the concerned zoo should provide all possible
assistance. In case of transportation, it will be ideal to keep the way hide
zoo informed in advance about such movement.
*****
178
Protocols for transportation of wild animals
1 Selection of individuals
i. Selection of animals is critical in any planned operation involving
transportation. The selected animal should be in good health
and have a clean health record. Preferably it should not have any
medical history that is suspect.
ii. Only adults and sub-adults should be transported. Pregnant,
geriatric, lactating,suckling, sick, weak, injured or deformed
animals and stags (deer species) in velvet should be avoided
in planned transport. As far as birds are concerned, juveniles
which have recently fledged should be preferred for transporting.
Transport of adults, if necessary, should be done after the
breeding season is over.
iii. lf young ones unable to fend for themselves should be transported,
they should be transported along with the mother. Young ones that
are being hand reared should be accompanied by the keepers/
handlers from the donor and recipient zoos.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
5 Record-keeping considerations
i. Copies of the studbook and breeding records of the animals
being transported should accompany the animals to indicate the
pedigree and to prevent inbreeding.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy Protocols for transportation of wild animals
ii. Copies of the animal report including all details of health, breeding
and animal temperament and medical history sheets and medical
records should be sent to the recipient zoo along with the animals.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The following need to be considered in terms of the financial outlay when
planning the acquisition of new animals:
i. The financial consideration involved in providing additional
man power for the care of the new animal/animals
ii. Provision of adequate funds for transportation from the donor zoo
iii. Provision of funds for the up keep and veterinary care of the animal
The director of the recipient zoo should ensure the availability of
funds for the above prior to the transport of the animals.
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy Protocols for transportation of wild animals
vi. Do not use lead paints for painting crates. As far as possible
crates should not be painted inside, but the surface should be
smooth.
xii. Padding with gunny bags filled with paddy straw, coir or foam/
cotton cushions should be provided in crates used for herbivores.
Cages used for birds do not require any padding. Nails, wooden
splinters, protrusions, sharp edges and sharp objects should be
removed from the inner surfaces of the container.
xiv. In the case of deer, antlers and antler tips may be taped with
padding/cushioning to prevent injuries and breakage during
transport.
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy Protocols for transportation of wild animals
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
Species-specific considerations
A. Deer species
i. The maximum number of animals that may be transported at a time is
four or five.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy Protocols for transportation of wild animals
B. Carnivores
i. Preferably only one animal should be transported in each crate/
container. When more than one animal must be transported in a crate,
it is preferable to have animals from the same enclosure or those that
have lived together.
ii. Males need to be transported separately in individual crates.
C. Primates
i. Up to four animals may be transported together at a time.
ii. With larger primates, only one animal may be transported in a crate.
D. Birds
i. Storks, cranes, ratites and raptors should be transported individually.
ii. Parakeets may be transported in pairs in boxes.
iii. Ducks, teals, geese, pigeons, bulbuls, galliforms (females), corvids,
sparrows and other finches may be transported in groups.
Photo credits: Wildlife Trust of India
Photos 9 & 10: Boxes for transportation of small mammals and birds
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
E. Reptiles
i. Crocodiles should always be transported singly.
ii. Turtles and tortoises: Large animals should be transported singly;
smallones may be transported in groups.
iii. King cobras, cobras, pythons and other cannibalistic snakes must
always be transported individually in crates/boxes with locks and
signage marked DANGER/HANDLE WITH CARE - VENOMOUS SNAKE.
iv. When reptiles suchas crocodiles,chelonians,snakes and lizards are to
be transported/released, check for evidence of any injury, metabolic
bone disease, ectoparasites, stomatitis, scale-rot, dysecdysis,
bloat, retained eye caps, swollen eyes or abnormal discharges from
the eyes, nostrils, mouth, etc. In the case of crocodiles, the teeth should
be clean and white, not brittle or translucent. Similary, any accumulation
of algae on teeth may often reflect lack of feeding in crocodiles.Fasting
prior to physical capture appears to be desirable in reptiles. Transport
boxes or container should be of adequate width and depth to prevent
chelonians from climbing and damaging their shells. Snake bags need
to be tied firmly to prevent escapes. Boxes should be locked. Reptiles
are very susceptible to dehydration during transportation and require to
be provided water.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy Protocols for transportation of wild animals
For dimensions of the crates for different species, Manual of Transport Cages
and Nest Boxes,published by CZA, may be referred to.
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy Protocols for transportation of wild animals
i. Bird size measurements should be taken with the bird lying down/
wings closed and legs stretched. The height of the crate should
always be at least 4-6 Inches more than the bird’s height at the head.
ii. Frame: Solid wooden battens 30 mm x 30 mm all around;in the case of
emus,75 mm x 50 mm.
Iii. Slides: 9 mm thick waterproof plywood; In the case of emus, the
plywood should be 12 mm thick, with iron bars of length 25cm fixed at
equal distances from each other.
iv. Floor: 9 mm thick waterproof plywood; in the case of emus 19 mm thick
plywood, with saw dust. In the case of big birds, the flooring should be
of astro-turf or of any non-slip material.
v. Roof: 9 mm thick waterproof plywood; in the case of emus the
plywood should be 19 mm thick.
vi. Doors: Sliding on one side, back closed, Door made of 9 mm thick
plywood. In the case of emus the thickness should be 19 mm. When
transporting raptors or birds, the sliding door should not be installed
sideways but instead top to down. This will allow the bird to be caught
by its legs. In a vulture transport box the lid should be on the roof
because it should be opened at the top.
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
vii. Ventilation: Wire mesh at rear end at the top of the cage; in the case
of emus,holes on both sides. In the case of raptors, there should be
holes (of the size of drilling machine bits) at regular Intervals on all the
four sides. The holes should be small enough to ensure that even a
human finger cannot pass through them as the introduction of a finger
into a crate could be very dangerous, especially in the case of vulture
transport.
viii. For dimensions of the crates for different species, Manual of Transport
Cages and Nest Boxes, published by CZA, may be referred to.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
vi. Ventilation: Small holes on sides and top as required. But it must be
ensured that the holes are smaller than the size of the snake’s tail/head
as well as human fingers.
vii. 5 em thick plywood boxes (2’ x 2’ x 1’; 60 em high x 60 em long or
deep x 30 em wide) with up to four racks have been effectively used for
transporting up to 10 hatchlings in each rack for transport of hatchling
gharials by air.
VETERINARY CONSIDERATIONS
DONOR ZOO
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Deer
Carnivores
Species Drugs Dose regime Mode
(mg/kg)
Wolf (Canis lupus) *Xylazine and 10 and 2 IM
ketamine
Himalayan black *Tiletamine/ 0.5 and 0.01 IM
bear (Ursus zolazepam and
thibetanus) medetomidine
Sloth bear (Ursus *Ketamine and 7.5 and 2 IM
ursinus) xylazine
*Ketamine and 3 and 0.05
meditomidine
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
Primates
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Iii. Human contact with the animals should be minimised to avoid cross
infection.
iv. The animals should be monitored throughout the transportation, and if
need be, appropriate treatment/management should be administered.
v. Emergency veterinary drugs and equipment should be carried during
transportation to meet any eventuality. Quick and prompt veterinary
consultations and treatment should be extended to animals that get
injured or diseased in transit.
vi. An official with the requisite financial powers to cover any exigencies en
route should accompany the animal. The official may be assisted by an
animal supervisor and keepers/handlers as required.
viii. There should always be two drivers for the vehicle so that there need
not be an excessive number of stops during the journey. One driver can
rest while the other drives. But there should be no rush to cover the
distance.
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy Protocols for transportation of wild animals
iv. Ensure that the vehicle is fit for the journey. The vehicle should be
serviced, and a thorough check-up should be carried out prior to the
transport. Additionally, information on the fuel level, tyre pressure and
the tool kit and essential spares carried should be obtained. An animal
transport vehicle on a long journey should have two drivers.
v. The mobile numbers and contact details of the drivers, owners,
cleaners, etc. should be given to the coordinators of both the donor
and recipient zoos.
vi. The transport vehicle should be insured. All the vehicle-related
documents should be valid (R.C., insurance papers, driver’s licence,
etc.) and should be checked.
vii. The vehicle should be disinfected properly prior to transport.
viii. Identification of the animals to be transported should be done prior to
loading.
ix. The shortest route among the usable ones should be selected.
x. Before transportation, factors such as the weather forecast and possible
disturbances (blockades, processions, festivals, public functions etc.)
during the proposed transportation period should be taken into account
and the planning carried out accordingly.
xi. Information on zoos and other facilities available en route should be
provided to the personnel of the vehicle so that assistance (food,
health care, etc.) can be obtained as and when needed.
xii. The contact information of directors/veterinarians of zoos en route
should be available with the transporting team. The travel plan
should be communicated to the directors/veterinarians so that they can
provide assistance if required.
xlli. The pilot vehicle should have a representative of the competent
authority and a veterinarian. It should have drugs, equipment for
physical immobilization and communication facilities.
xiv. The personnel should be wearing in uniform with proper dress code.
The vehicle should have the necessary papers/certificates.
xv. The team in the pilot vehicle should inform toll gates/check posts in
advance so that unnecessary delays are avoided.
xvi. The transport vehicle and pilot vehicle should carry emergency
lights, torches with sufficient batteries, drinking water, IV fluids, medical
kits, etc.
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Protocols for transportation of wild animals
xvii. For help with safe and secure transportation, the fares department
personnel and agencies such as the police of the districts or states
involved may be contacted.
xviii. The guidelines of lATA, CITES, etc. should be followed wherever
applicable.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
202
Protocols for transportation of wild animals
Annexure I
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
204
Protocols for transportation of wild animals
In Export and Import Policy, Sl. No.1 of Section D, Seeds, Plants and Animals
of Part II of Chapter 15 of Negative List of Imports shall be amended to read
as under:
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
206
Protocols for transportation of wild animals
207
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
(N.L LAKHANPAL)
DIRECTOR GENERAL OF FOREIGN TRADE AND
EX-OFFICIO ADDITIONAL SECRETARY OF THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
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Guidelines for exchange or transfer of animals between Zoos
Central Zoo Authority will take every care that all the Zoos are benefited from
the exchange programme.
To achieve this goal, following guidelines are being issued:
Guidelines:
1. The exchange proposals submitted by Zoos will be decided primarily on
the basis of the housing and upkeep facilities available at the recipient
Zoo and viability of the species population group at the donating Zoo.
2. Single animals, unpaired animals and animals in non-viable groups will
be transferred to zoos with appropriate housing and upkeep facilities.
Preference has to be given to the zoos in the normal habitat range of
the species concerned.
3. While approving exchange programme the past track record of the zoo
with regard to success in breeding and infant healthcare and upkeep
shall be given proper weight age.
4. Animals of wild origin shall be treated as precious commodity and their
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Note:(1) The Member Secretary may issue approval of Central Zoo Authority
for exchange proposal involving the wild animal species/individuals not
part of the approved Coordinated Conservation Breeding Programme,
if satisfying the guidelines. (2) All the exchange proposals of wild animal
species/ individuals between Indian Zoos forming part of approved
Coordinated Conservation Breeding Programme will be placed in the
Technical Committee for approval. (3) All the exchange proposals
between Indian and Foreign Zoos will be decided by the Central Zoo
Authority as per recommendations made by the Technical Committee.
(4) In urgent cases and where the meeting of the Technical Committee
or/and Central Zoo Authority is not likely to be held immediately, the
Member Secretary may issue the approval of Central Zoo Authority for
such exchange proposals which satisfy the guidelines with the approval
of the Chairman, Technical Committee and/or Chairman, Central Zoo
Authority respectively as the case may be. However, ex-post-facto
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Guidelines for exchange or transfer of animals between Zoos
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
1. Age 1. Age
2. Specify whether wild origin/ 2 Specify whether wild origin/
captive bred and generation( captive bred and generation( F1,F2)
F1,F2) 3. Breeding record (whether sired/
3. Breeding record (whether sired/ given birth)
given birth) 4. Studbook number (national/
4. Studbook number (national/ international)
international) 5. Whether marked, then specify (
5. Whether marked, then specify Transponder no./ring/tag etc)
(Transponder no./ring/tag etc)
C. Purpose C. Purpose
1. Breeding 1. Breeding/introduce new blood
2. over crowding/surplus 2. Pairing / Provide mate
3. single or unpaired 3. Forming social group/viable
4. other population
4. other
D. Nature of housing D. Nature of housing
1. Open air/ Closed (specify area 1. Open air/ Closed (specify area in
in sq.mtrs) sq.mtrs)
2. Feeding cells/ kraal 2. Feeding cells/ kraal
(specify dimension in mtrs) and (specify dimension in mtrs) and
number of cells/kraal number of cells/kraal
E. History of the zoo in: E. History of the zoo in:
1. Upkeep 1. Upkeep
2. Breeding 2. Breeding
3. Infant care 3. Infant care
4. Mortality 4. Mortality
*****
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Procedure and process for acquiring Animals from Zoos abroad
Step-2 Negotiating with foreign zoo and obtaining veterinary protocol for
bringing in animals into India
a) While negotiating with the foreign zoo, try to acquire at least 2 pairs or
more number of specimens you propose to add to your collection plan.
This will ensure that even if one animal dies during transit, you are left
with at least three or more specimens. Secondly, tell the exporting zoo
to put a price tag (of minimum value) for the purpose of customs duty,
while agreeing to provide the animals. (The Dept. of Revenue, Govt.
of India can also be approached for waiver of customs duty, but this is
quite cumbersome and time taking).
b) While agreeing to part with animals, the foreign zoo would ask
for veterinary protocol to be followed for import of the animals. An
application has to be made to Assistant Commissioner (Trade), Dept. of
Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Govt. of India, Krishi Bhawan,
New Delhi-110001 seeking guidelines for the same. {This again takes
time, one has to pursue on telephone}. All correspondence to Assistant
commissioner shall also be marked to The Commissioner, Dept. of
Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Govt. of India, Krishi Bhawan,
New Delhi-110001 for his information.
Step-3 NOC of Chief Wildlife Warden and approval of Central Zoo Authority
Once you have firmly entered into an agreement with the foreign zoo for
an exchange, move the proposal to Chief Wildlife Warden of the State for
seeking no objection from the States point of view. Thereafter submit the
proposal to Central Zoo Authority for their approval.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Climate Change, Govt. of India, Indira Paryavaran Bhawan, New Delhi for
obtaining a no objection certificate towards import of the animals.
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Procedure and process for acquiring Animals from Zoos abroad
Officer before hand itself. This will facilitate faster release of animals at the
airport.
Important Notes:
1. It is mandatory to obtain prior NOC from the concerned Chief Wildlife
Warden of the state before applying to Central Zoo Authority.
2. It is mandatory to seek prior permission of the Central Zoo Authority for
importing any animal into an Indian Zoo.
3. Very young and very old animals should not be imported. General age
class should be between 4 to 6 years, i.e the animals should have been
properly weaned and do not depend on their mothers / Keepers for food.
The importing zoo should obtain detailed history sheets of the animals
being acquired prior to agreeing to receive them. (All accredited zoos
in the world are on ISIS data base and maintain records as per the ISIS
norms.)
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
4. If the importing zoo is receiving exotic animals for first time, they should
train their keepers on husbandry matters either at the exporting zoo or
in any Indian zoo having the animals, before the animals land up in the
zoo.
5. As permissions are required to be obtained from multifarious
government agencies, continuous persuasion is required.
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Guidelines for release of zoo animals into the wild
Objectives of release of zoo bred/ captive bred animals into the wild
1. Augmenting the depleting number of endangered species in any
ecosystem.
2. Reintroducing the species in an area which was part of its historical
range, from which the species has disappeared or become extinct
due to various factors.
3. Introduction of the species in areas outside its recorded range
of distribution, in the habitat that have the potential to hold and
support the species on a sustained basis without becoming a
vermin/ pest.
4. Experimental releases for developing expertise in rehabilitating
the zoo bred/ captive bred animals in the wild and preparing
detailed protocol for planned release of the species for any of
above objectives.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
218
Guidelines for release of zoo animals into the wild
Socio-economic-Legal Requirements
(i) Socio-Economic studies should be made to assess the impacts,
costs and benefits of the proposed release to the local population.
(ii) Thorough assessment of the attitude of the local people to the
proposed release project should be made and their apprehension
if any, should be properly redressed. No release of animals in wild
should be made in the wild against the wishes of the local people.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
General
(i) The execution of all the phases of the release programme should
be carried out under the supervision of multi disciplinary team of
experts.
(ii) Long term and short term indicators for quantifying the success of
the release programme should be identified.
(iii) Detailed programme for all the phases of the release should be
developed so that each stage can be meticulously implemented in
planned and scientific manner.
(iv) Necessary vaccinations against local endemic and epidemic
diseases should be given to all the livestock that is likely to share
the habitat with the released species.
(v) Transport plan for the animals should be so prepared and
executed that no mortalities take place during the transport.
(vi) Appropriate orientation and training programmes should be
organized for all the persons involved in the release programme.
*****
220
Guidelines on minimum dimension of enclosures for
housing animals of different species in Zoos
The Central Government has, through amendment of the Wild Life (Protection)
Act, 1972 and notification of Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009, prescribed
minimum standards and norms for housing, upkeep and healthcare of Indian
animals housed in the different zoos of the country. However guidelines on
the minimum dimension on housing of various exotic species of animals
and birds are not yet prescribed 137 species of exotic animals and birds are
currently housed in various Indian zoos.
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222
Guidelines on minimum dimension of enclosures for
housing animals of different species in Zoos
223
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
224
Guidelines on minimum dimension of enclosures for
housing animals of different species in Zoos
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
226
Guidelines on minimum dimension of enclosures for
housing animals of different species in Zoos
Elephant 8.0 6.0 5.5 Slow loris and 1.0 1.0 1.5
Slender loris
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
228
Guidelines on minimum dimension of enclosures for
housing animals of different species in Zoos
NOTE
1. The dimensions have been given only in respect of the species,
which are commonly displayed in zoos.
2. No dimensions for outdoor enclosure have been prescribed for
Chinkara and Chowsingha because of the problem of infighting
injuries. The enclosure for these species could be a group of small
sized enclosures with fewer animals in each. Care should be taken to
ensure that there should be no competing mating males in each small
enclosure.
3. The designs of enclosures for endangered species, not covered by
this Appendix, should be finalized only after approval of the Central
Zoo Authority.
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230
Guidelines on use of innovative exhibit design and barriers' design
for holding and display of animals and birds in Indian Zoos
231
Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
232
Guidelines on use of innovative exhibit design and barriers' design
for holding and display of animals and birds in Indian Zoos
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
234
Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers in Zoo Management in India
3. Gift Shop
Help in the gift shop with assisting customers and perform basic retail
procedures.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
and will involve in Zoo animal enclosure area and public utility area cleaning,
landscaping, sign boards' designing, etc
7. Substitute
Volunteer will be on call to come in when a need arises such as in situation
where another volunteer is unable to make their scheduled time. Be trained in
the numerous areas so that they can fill in or substitute when required.
8. Tour Guide
He/she will take groups around the premises and explain and interpret nature
of the animal and exhibits to the visitor. This requires an outgoing, enthusiastic
and dedicated individual.
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Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers in Zoo Management in India
RECRUITMENT:
New Volunteers will be recruited through advertising in zoo website, print and
electronic media. Those who have completed secondary school examination
shall be eligible to act as volunteer. Those volunteering for specialised jobs
requiring higher or specialised qualification should at least hold minimum
qualification in that field. Test and Personal Interviews shall be conducted to
select the volunteers. Prospective Volunteers will be required to complete an
orientation process and complete an application form (Annexure I). An ID
shall be issued to all volunteer.
1. Requirements
Applicants to the programme must be 18 years of age or older. An
enthusiastic, friendly and positive attitude and the ability to work well with a
diverse audience and under diverse and adverse condition is also required.
All applicants must be cleared by a background check before they begin
training.
2. Training
The Zoo Education Department shall be responsible for the orientation
training of all Volunteers. Training sessions for new Volunteers shall be offered
at least twice a year, the scheduling and content of which shall be planned
by the Education wing. Continuing Education and Membership workshops
and special sessions shall be held throughout the year. Workshops will be
arranged by the Volunteer Education Committee. Social activities suited to
the needs and interests of the Volunteers shall be planned throughout the
year. In case of need, volunteer may be sent to the zoos/facilities in the same
or other city for orientation to provide best exposure.
3. Time Commitment
Volunteers must work based on time commitment schedule, decided in
consultation with volunteer and zoo volunteer programme co-ordinator.
Benefit to Volunteer
1. Special Awards Certificate of Participation
A zoo volunteer who has rendered service of at least 30 days during a period
of one year will be granted a Certificate of Participation.
A Zoo Volunteer who has been active for two (2) or more consecutive years,
and who has contributed exemplary and exceptional service to the Zoo,
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
2. Payment to Volunteers
Volunteering is an opportunity for people to give their time, energy and skills.
Volunteers are entitled to out-of-pocket expenses for their volunteering
activities. Where someone incurs expenses as a direct result of their
volunteering activities they should be reimbursed. Out of pocket expenses for
volunteers may include:
yy travelling expenses to and from where they are working as a volunteer
yy other subsistence costs – e.g. food and drink
yy any special clothing and/or tools
yy training
Zoo may also opt some other suitable staff welfare scheme for the volunteer
as well to encourage and boost their confidence in taking up assignments
in the zoo. The volunteer must sign the Statement of Confidentiality and
Organizational Ethics (Annexure II).
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Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers in Zoo Management in India
WARNING OF RISK
Despite being careful and proper preparation, instruction, medical advice,
conditioning and equipment, there is still a risk of serious injury when
providing volunteer services. Understandably, not all hazards and dangers
can be foreseen. Volunteers must understand that depending upon the
volunteer services, certain risks, dangers and injuries due to accidents,
inclement weather, slip and falls, inadequate or defective equipment, failure
in supervision or instruction, premises defects, horseplay, carelessness, lack
of skill or technique, and all other circumstances inherent to the particular
volunteer services exist. In this regard, it must be recognized that it is
impossible for the Zoo to guarantee absolute safety.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Annexure - I
VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM
yy Name:
yy Father's Name:
yy Date of Birth:
yy Nationality:
yy Address:
yy City:
yy Home Phone & E-mail:
yy Cell Phone & Work Phone:
yy Areas of Interest:
yy Hours of service willing to render ( Indicate days and month):
yy Languages Spoken:
yy Fluency in languages:
yy Previous experience of voluntary service (NSS, NCC, NGO etc)
Background Information
Have you ever been convicted of a crime other than minor traffic violations?
Yes/No
yy Offence Date
yy Location Fine/sentence
yy Are you currently on probation, parole, or awaiting trial?
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Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers in Zoo Management in India
The information in this application is true and complete, and I have not
knowingly withheld any information. I understand that misrepresentation may
be cause for dismissal. I authorize verification of all information contained in
this application. I understand that as a volunteer at the Zoo I will be expected
to demonstrate a commitment to uphold the mission of the organization, to
maintain an environment of integrity for people and for animals, and to focus
on customer service, with respect for all employees, volunteers and guests.
As a volunteer at the zoo, I agree to follow all zoo guidelines and policies.
In addition, I give consent to the Zoo to emergency medical attention in the
event that I am not able to give consent, and if my emergency contacts are
not available. I am aware that Zoo has the right to release me from service
at any time, just as I have the right to withdraw from volunteer service at any
time.
Volunteer Signature
Date
Note:
Please attach resume and certificate of voluntary service in any organisation
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Annexure - II
I further understand that violation of any matters listed above may be grounds
for dismissal.
I also certify that the information provided on this application is true and
complete. False statements on this application shall be considered as
grounds for termination. I also understand that this is not a paid position.
Signed_________________________________
Date___________________________________
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Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers in Zoo Management in India
Annexure - III
2. Identification
Volunteer must wear photo ID provided.
4. Conduct
Zoo’s Volunteer Program is highly regarded by staff and Volunteers alike and
has a reputation for excellence. As a Volunteer staff member, a Volunteer’s
actions represent the Zoo and the Volunteer Program as a whole. Use of
inappropriate language, drugs or alcohol, and fighting are all grounds for
dismissal from the program. Any disputes or problems should be handled in
a calm manner and should be reported to service or staff supervisor and the
Volunteer Coordinator immediately.
Volunteers are important role models and often the most visible representatives
of the Zoo. Guests learn a lot from their attitude, comments, and behaviour. It
is expected that volunteer will behave in a manner that is appropriate to ones’
Volunteer position at the Zoo.
The Zoo should be confident in professional abilities of all staff both paid and
Volunteer. Everyone is expected to follow the same basic common sense
rules of conduct that will protect the interests and safety of visitors, animals,
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
and organization. Certain actions and forms of behavior will not be tolerated
and may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal. A determination of
appropriate action will take into consideration the circumstances surrounding
the incident and the Volunteer’s overall record.
Disciplinary Policy
Verbal Warning:
Any complaint from a service area supervisor or other Zoo staff member will
result in a meeting with the Volunteer Coordinator and verbal warning filed in
the individual’s file.
Written Warning
A second infraction will result in suspension from the program for a period of
time to be determined by the Volunteer Coordinator and Education Curator. A
written warning will be filed in the individual’s program file.
Dismissal
A third infraction will result in dismissal from the program.
Dissatisfied Customers
Occasions arise when a visitor is harsh, discourteous, speaks in raised voice
and abusive, volunteer should remain calm and handle the situation without
being disturbed or agitated.
yy Volunteer should take a deep breath, remember that the visitor is upset
and deserves your attention
yy He/she must listen to visitors patiently
yy To the visitor, a problem is important even if it doesn’t seem so to a
volunteer.
yy Problems with food products sold in the restaurant or kiosk can be
directed to the restaurant staff.
yy Problems with animal exhibits and visibility of animals should be
explained
yy Problem with zoo infrastructure and facility the volunteer may direct
them to the executing staff
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Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers in Zoo Management in India
wireless to initiate the search protocols. Please be aware that there is also
a wireless at the entrance and office. It is important to stay in the area where
the child/parent was last seen. Do NOT walk around the zoo with the child/
parent looking for the lost person. The staff will look in the park and direct
help to your location.
Unruly Guests
These persons could be rude to a volunteer or other visitors, feeding the
animals, or doing things in the zoo that are not allowed (climbing over exhibit
fences, harassing animals, etc.).
yy This may be reported to the supervisor or another zoo staff/ personnel.
yy If they are not available, it should be told to the receptionist or ticket
booth staff. Zoo staff are the best people to deal with this type of
situation.
yy Unless a person or animal is in immediate danger, such miscreants
should not be “reprimanded”.
Zoonosis
Volunteers that handle animals do run the risk of acquiring/transmitting
zoonotic diseases. Zoonotic diseases are those which are shared by man and
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
animals. All Volunteers that handle animals should adhere to the following
procedures.
Volunteers that work in the animal care areas must produce a negative TB
test annually. TB test results should be kept on file in the Volunteer office.
Frequent hand washing and disinfecting of the environment is recommended
as a way to prevent the transmission of zoonotic diseases.
Media
The Zoo Management must approve all media communications including,
interview and/or article requests. If a volunteer is contacted by local media
for an interview regarding Zoo, he/she notify the Volunteer Coordinator. If
approached by a media representative while on zoo grounds, he/she should
refrain from answering any questions or sharing his/her opinions on a zoo
matter, unless it has been previously approved by a representative of the
zoo management. Media requesting information from a volunteer should
be directed to Reception at the entrance. Any unauthorized interview or
attempt to contact a member of the media regarding any zoo business made
by a Volunteer will result in immediate disciplinary action, not limited to but
including dismissal from the Volunteer program.
1. Upon Arrival
Volunteer will enter name, date, service area worked, and total hours
worked on the Volunteer Hours book/ time sheets located in the Volunteer
coordinator’s office/ Reception office. Volunteer should sign-in on arrival and
sign-out when leaving. From these time sheets, staff can compile monthly
records of all Volunteer service areas. Signing in when volunteer arrives at
the zoo enables the staff to locate him/her in the event of an emergency.
The volunteer should check bulletin board for updates/new information and
then go to assigned work area.
2. Before Departing
Volunteer should check the schedule for any changes.
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Guidelines for the Utilization of Volunteers in Zoo Management in India
*****
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Annexure IV
I do hereby fully release and forever discharge the Parties ['zoo'?] from any
and all claims for injuries, damages, or loss that I may have or which may
accrue to me and arising out of, connected with or in any way associated with
my volunteer services. I have read and fully understood the above important
information, warning of risk, assumption of risk and waiver and release of all
claims.
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Guidelines for Developing Framework Mechanism for Mobilizing
Financial Support for Supplementing Management of Zoos
Zoos are conservation centres with a large potential to educate visitor and
develop understanding and empathy for wildlife. They serve as institution of
knowledge and learning about the life history of captive animals.
The zoos need to make their operations sustainable through judicious use of
available resources, using various marketing tools to raise funds for attaining
financial stability without compromising on the welfare of animals in their
collections and conservation goals.
The zoos run by trusts and private sector may also use these guidelines for
availing benefits. It is true that unless zoos have best marketing strategy
they cannot tap the financial resources from the organizations and private
individuals. Zoos can be self sustaining and financially stable if they can raise
funds through innovative marketing. A workshop on marketing, fund raising,
and resource management was organized by the Central Zoo Authority at
Kolkata from 27th -30th April 2009 in collaboration with Zoological Garden,
Alipore to discuss the marketing and fund raising opportunities for the zoos in
India. More than 27 zoo directors and 2 International resource persons from
Singapore attended the workshop. Following practices may be adopted in
marketing and fund raising in zoos:
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
The zoos under Government control are not free to openly canvass for
raising funds as the maintenance funds are allotted by Govt and the zoo
managers do not consider it as important part of their activity. It is necessary
that the state govt should explore avenues to make zoos self sustaining and
financially sound so that the welfare of animals do not suffer.
SWOT Analysis
Each zoo should carry out a SWOT analysis and develop a financial business
model based on its core strength and enter into a dialogue with organizations
and private individuals to support the zoos for conservation. The zoos have to
decide the marketing module best suited to their strengths. SWOT analysis
can indicate your current position and the way forward. It can give insight
to your strength, sphere of your excellence, your advantages, valuable
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Guidelines for Developing Framework Mechanism for Mobilizing
Financial Support for Supplementing Management of Zoos
assets and resources, visitor perception of your strength. It can also give you
areas of your weakness, where you can do better, locate your weak areas of
management, your vulnerability. The opportunities in an ex-situ conservation
facility with respect to Conservation breeding, education and research, green
initiatives and education are immense and we need to capitalize on them. The
zoos are facing criticism on Animal ethics and welfare and media perceive
them as vulnerable entities. Internally and externally there are threats to its
progress and growth in spite of good legislation, rules and guidelines. The
zoos have to reorient themselves and incorporate significant changes in
the outlook of the management and keep abreast with new technologies,
concepts and ideas emerging in management of animals.
This exercise will create a business model innovation; understanding the logic
through which the business can create and deliver value for the customers/
clients.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
The business vision should be clear. How far you can work and achieve under
the existing Govt norms. Do you need to set up a special purpose unit under
a society model.? Will the state govt agree to this dispensation? How you can
convince the govt to give you the powers to raise and deposit funds and also
plough back and revolve the funds from entry fees and other collections. You
have to develop the vision and strategy for management and business. For
this set out the guiding principles and ethics.
Maximise Strengths
Location, surrounding, natural landscape and water bodies etc What is
your zoo known for, your hallmark, find it, develop it and make your position
statement in society. Develop rapport with other organisations private or govt
in entertainment and allied sector. How your zoo has adapted to the changing
role and philosophy about wildlife. What is your visitation and market share
as compared to other natural landscapes and entertainment centres. How
to increase your market share. You have to make the system of governance
and management work for you. Your vision should be to become a major and
important natural resource recreation and learning centre in your city with a
top position. Most important is to develop your brand and then strategically
associate and align with other supporting business (theme park, botanical
garden, transport sector, caterers etc) What is your target audience, do you
have a separate and exclusive niche audience .You may have to revise tariff
rates and operating hours to strategically take your business forward.
Zoos Dilemma
The Govt zoos bound by rules framed for govt service, finance, maintenance
procedures etc can not effect any changes deviating from govt procedures
and feel themselves restricted in executing new ideas and business concepts.
They need to form society and adapt elements of organizations management
and ethics to produce results. Govt zoos have to learn to set up and operate
towards achieving sound financial returns within the govt norms. This calls
for a optimum, efficient and effective allocation of resources, a quick turn
around time and growth of the zoo. The zoo manager should be more than an
administrator, a business manager.
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Guidelines for Developing Framework Mechanism for Mobilizing
Financial Support for Supplementing Management of Zoos
HRD-Training
The zoos have to work and invest in the staff on training and development as
staffs are the most important assets that build an image of your organisation.
Rude and discourteous staff can ruin any organisation Empower your staff
with knowledge and efficiency of work, Provide appropriate courses, reward
and grant incentives for enhancing performance.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
The positioning and branding of the zoo activity features and exhibits with right
names which attracts people can do wonders for your zoo image. Positioning
zoo towards target audience can attract large number of people. Work out the
unique selling proposition in consonance with the target audience. Make your
zoo different from others. Brand is a unique image builder and connects to
value, emotion etc and excites people and makes them loyal towards brand
and people want it all the time.
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Guidelines for Developing Framework Mechanism for Mobilizing
Financial Support for Supplementing Management of Zoos
l. Donors conditions
The donors would require concessions and preferences with regard to entry
in zoo and acknowledging their contribution and role which can be agreed by
consultation within the ambit of the guidelines Possible request from donors
are: waiver of entry fee, preferential entry, visit to enclosures, erection of
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
board with details of sponsors and acknowledging their role in the official
website.
2. Fund raising:
Fund raising is an integral part of the zoo to make it self sustaining and
financially sound. Govt rules do not encourage active fund raising events
as done in foreign zoos. Considering the restriction imposed in Financial
Rules of Government (GFR), if needed, it is advised that the zoos may have
a Registered Charitable Society/ Foundation for receiving the funds from
people and organizations for the better management. The many States have
created zoo authorities to plough back the revenue generated by the zoo
in terms of entry fee etc. for the better management of the zoo. The States
who does not have State zoo authorities yet may constitute the same for
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Guidelines for Developing Framework Mechanism for Mobilizing
Financial Support for Supplementing Management of Zoos
the purpose of fund raising and its utilization. It is observed due to lack of
information or awareness, zoos don’t know how to receive and utilize such
fund. Following criteria may be adopted to raise the funds.
a. The zoo should be allowed to raise & use funds by their respective
operators or governments.
b. The zoo may have a Registered Society/ Foundation comprised of
all stakeholders to raise fund and utilize same for the development
of zoos.
c. Zoo should also be allowed to spend their revenue generated
from ticketing.
d. Funds or the services in the zoos may be generated using some
of the below suggested ways:-
o Appropriate advertising in zoos by organizations.
o Making friends of zoos through charging fee.
o Outsourcing or establishing souvenir shops in zoos.
o Monetary donation from individuals and organizations.
o Monetary endorsement by organizations to zoos.
o Parking of vehicles.
o Endorsement from the organizations for certain services
e.g. cleaning and hygiene in the zoo, road, enclosures,
hospital and office maintenance in zoo premises.
o Zoo can also receive certain equipments as donation
such as furniture, computer, and battery operated vehicle,
veterinary equipments, stationary item, ticketing machine
etc
o .Sponsorship for various activities viz transport, drinking
water kiosk, education programme for school children,
hygiene and health care of animals, uniform and other
accoutrements for staff, medical camps etc
o Adoption of exhibits–providing feed for animals and
maintenance of enclosure and health care etc
o Sponsoring conservation breeding programmes, ex-
situ & in-situ conservation of animals, species recovery
programme etc
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
All zoos will develop protocol for receiving such aid, fix price or amount
of different services and adoption of animals. All such aid will be entered
into records and subjected to the audit. The zoo will have annual audit by
competent authority for said grant and aid as well. Attempt should be made to
deploy marketing professionals to market the image of zoo and raise of funds.
*****
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Advisory - Banning Elephants from Zoo collections
* Issued to the Chief Wild Life Wardens of all States/ UTs vide Central Zoo
Authority Letter No. 7-5/2006-CZA (Vol.II) dated 7th November, 2009.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
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Recommended guidelines during stakeholder meetings on “Elephants' Upkeep in Zoos”
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
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Recommended guidelines during stakeholder meetings on “Elephants' Upkeep in Zoos”
*****
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
Time and again, it has been brought to the notice of this Ministry that the
State Governments through various departments, organizations, tourism
development corporations in particular, have been planning to develop
dolphinarium in the State with main aim to attract tourism for commercial
purpose with the intention of organizing dolphin show etc.
Whereas under Section 2(39) of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 the definition
of ‘zoo’ is given as an establishment, whether stationary or mobile, where
captive animals are kept for exhibition to the public [and includes a circus and
rescue centres but does not include an establishment of a licensed dealer in
captive animals.]” and as such, the dolphinarium will fall under the definition
of ‘zoo’,
Whereas as per 38H (1) of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, no zoo shall
be operated without being recognized by Central Zoo Authority and as per
Section 38H (1A) a zoo shall not be established without obtaining prior
approval of the Central Zoo Authority. Moreover, such zoo requires approval
of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, in terms of the Order dated 20.11.2000
passed in W. P. No. 47/1998-Navin M. Raheja V/s Union of India and Ors.
Whereas as per Section 38H (4) of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, no
recognition to a zoo shall be granted unless the Central Zoo Authority is
satisfied that it is for the interest of protection and conservation of wildlife,
Whereas the Gangetic dolphin and Snubfin dolphin are listed in Schedule-I
and all Cetacean species are listed in Schedule II part I of the Wild Life
(Protection) Act, 1972,
Whereas Government of India has declared Gangetic Dolphin as its national
aquatic animal with a view to protect these endangered species,
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Policy on establishment of Dolphinarium
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
8. The food preparation area should be clean and free from flies, insect
pests as well as pathogenic microorganisms.
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Suggested Health Monitoring Protocol for Zoos
12. Individual animal should be carefully observed every day for its physical
state, food and water consumption, urination, defection, alertness and
activity. Similarly careful examination of an animal’s den and enclosure
can also be rewarding.
14. Some animals are very shy or hyper excited, like mother with cub and
pair during mating. During such occasions consideration should be
given for the use of phones or even video cameras with which cats may
be monitored remotely.
16. Periodic screening of all the animals for parasitic, bacterial and viral
infections is essential part of health management. The faecal screening
should be carried out every three month. There is a need of sero
epidemiological survey of major viral diseases in large felids.
17. The collection and examination of blood samples for nutrients, parasites
and body status is recommended every eyar. Whereas, bacteriological
screening of animals for important bacterial pathogens should be
carried out every six months.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
18. On the basis of the report of parasitic study, the deworming should
be carried out using suitable drugs. Even if no parasite are detected
in the periodic screening it is recommended giving anthelmintics to
all the animals every six months. At the same time alternative use of
deworming drugs is essential to avoid drug resistance.
19. To control the entry of feral dogs, cats and mongoose, zoo and cage
boundary should be made in such a way that it prevents entry of such
animals.
Date : 08.10.2004
Place : New Delhi
* Issued to the Chief Wildlife Wardens of all states and Director/ Curators/
Zoo-Incharge of all Large, Medium and Small Zoos having large Carnivores
species vide letter No. 25-1/2002-CZA(M), dated 18.11.2004.
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7 (p). Measures for preventing Avian Influenza
Incidences of avian influenza virus (bird flu) has been reported from the
South-East Asian countries, which has affected domestic poultry. Human
beings have also been reported to get infected by this disease which has led
to deaths.
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Legislation, Policy, Guidelines and Strategy
To
The Forest Secretaries/ Chief Wildlife
Wardens of all states/ UTs.
Sir,
Instances have come when the state Governments and Directors
of Zoos have requested to allow them to sell their excess animals to circus
parties on the plea that they are having excess of animals like lions, leopards
and tigers etc. and due to limited accommodation, there excess animals are
maintained in small cells. Moreover, feeding expenditure on these animals is
also stated to be a problem. The matter was discussed in the meeting of the
Expert Committee of Indian Board for Wildlife on zoos held on 15.1.1986.
After careful consideration, it has been decided not to allow the sale of excess
animals of Indian Zoos to Circuses. However, such zoos may exchange their
excess animals with other Indian zoos authorized by Government of India or
State Government/ Municipal Corporation. It would also be appropriate to
curtail or stop breeding alongwith those animals which are getting surplus.
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CENTRAL GOVERNMENT ORDERS PROHIBITING SALE OF ANIMALS BY ZOO
No. 3352/87-WL-I
Government of India
Department of Environment & Forests and Wildlife
(Wildlife I Section)
Paryavaran Bhavan, Phase II, C.G.O. Complex,
Lodhi Road, New Delhi
To
The Chief Wildlife Wardens of all the States.
Sir,
We have received reports about some zoos entering into commercial
transactions with private circuses for disposal of the zoos animals.
Instructions have already been issued vide this Ministry’s letter No. 3-55/87-
WL-I, dated 28.10.87 that the zoos should not enter into any transactions of
animals with the circuses/ private indivisuals. The surplus animals should
invariably be disposed of through exchange programmes between different
zoos. Population control measures should also be adoptaed in respect of the
species which are breeding excessively.
2. It may be brought to the notice of the zoos that under section 49B of
the Act there is a total ban on any commercial dealings of scheduled animals
and any zoo carrying out commercial transaction in violation of scheduled
animals would be liable for prosecution under the Act. Similarly, in respect
of other animals also any dealings of wild animals can be done only under
licence under section 44 of the Act. Therefore, the zoos are not entitled to
carry out any trade in respect of any wildlife species. The violators of the
provision of the Act would be liable for punishment under the Act. You may
further ensure that while suitable action is taken against the defaulting zoos
no legal certificate of ownership should be issued in favour of any circus or
private individuals for the animals acquired from the zoos.
*****
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