Introduction

Nandankanan Zoological Park is one of the 14 large zoos of the country. Established on 29 th
December 1960 as the first zoological park of the State, it has progressively emerged as an
eminent and vibrant centre for biodiversity conservation and environmental education. As a primer
large zoo of India, it has spearheaded many significant improvements to provide highest standards
of housing, husbandry and health care to the captive wild animals and contributed towards
enriching our knowledge on the biology of endangered species.
Nandankanan exemplified the inimitable amalgamation of in-situ and ex-situ conservation
initiatives. The Zoological Park together with the Kanjia lake and the Botanical Garden has been
declared as Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary over an area of 4.37 sq. km. on 3 rd August, 1979.
The sprawling zoo houses 154 species of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. The natural
forest areas of Nandankanan provide home to a rich assemblage of free-living wild animals
including 13 species of mammals, 15 species of reptiles, 71 species of birds, 20 species of
amphibians, 85 species of butterflies and 51 species of spiders. The State Botanical Garden which
spreads over an area of 75 ha adjoining the Zoological Park was handed over to Nandankanan
Management since August, 2006. This is one of the most important plant conservation facilities in
the State. More than 704 species of plants have been documented in the State Botanical Garden.
There are two important wetlands present in Nandankanan namely Kanjia lake (66 ha) and Kiakani
lake. The former is the main water source for Nandananakan Zoological Park and State Botanical
Garden. It also plays an important role in wetland education and supporting rich diversity of flora
and fauna. Therefore, it has been listed a Wetlands of National importance by the Ministry of
Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Government of India in the year 2006.
We have completed another outstanding year of biodiversity conservation, zoo management, research
& education. Nandankanan has been an excellent place for eco-tourism which attracted more than 3.18
million visitors during the year. There was significant improvement in the infrastructure development,
animal collection, health care, fodder production and conservation research. Many zoo education and
awareness pogrammes including Celebration of World Wetlands Day, World Pangolin Day, World
wildlife day, Wildlife Week, World Elephant Day, International tiger day, Foundation Day etc. were
organized during the year 2016-17. Many species of indgenous and exotic animals including Indian
tiger, Lion, Giant squirrel, Jungle cat, Rhesus Macaque, Gaur, Common palm civet, Hog deer, Barking
deer, Sambar, Brow antlered deer, Spotted deer, Hippopotamus, Estern rosella, Swainson's lorikeeet,
Emu, Java sparrow, Grey pelican, Black kite, Night Heron, Barn owl, Alexandrine parakeet, White Ibis,
Gharial, Water monitor lizard etc. have bred successfully in the Park during the year. Nandankanan had
successfully reared three Fore horned antelope fawns received on 16.02.2017 from Sambalpur Forest
Division.
During the year, Wifi-CCTV surveillance system with 8 transmission towers and 43 cameras was
installed in the park. As a step towards cashless transaction, Nandankanan started online ticket
booking from 29.12.2016. Visitors can book ticket online for Nandankanan Zoological Park as well
as State Botanical Garden. Many enclosures were renovated notable Jackal enclosure and
supplemented with standoff barrier, signages and landscaping.
This financial year we have welcomed 48 new animals of 10 species to the zoo in animal
exchange programme with objective of infusion of new blood line to the existing stock and also
addition of new species to the zoo collection. However, we said goodbye to some long-time
residents of our zoo, notably Nandan, the one horned rhinoceros and Susama, the tigress. These
animals are part of the zoo's history and will be missed.
There has been a substantial improvement in the field of health care reflected in thre reduced
annual death rate of 1.62% during the year. This was possible due to sincere efforts by our staff in
order to maintain highest standards of health care and animal husbandry practices and close
cooperation with college of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Odisha University of
Agriculture & Technology, Bhubaneswar and also with the valuable advice and guidance of the
Health Committee and Technical Committee on important health care issues.
The Zoological Park has always been an outstanding centre for education and research. Five
research papers were published during the year in different national and international journals and
periodicals on various aspects of ex-situ conservation, health care and management of captive
wild animals.
Information on various aspects of management and development of Nandankanan during the year
2016-17 has been provided in the present Annual Report. I would like to thank all my staff for their
hard work and dedication that made it a successful year in the maintenance and development of
Nandankanan. I believe that Nandankanan will continue to grow as a world class zoo and to
contribute significantly in the field of wildlife conservation, education and research in coming years.

Mr S. K. Acharya, IFS
Director
Nandankanan Biological
Park
MISSION
To achieve the distinction of an outstanding zoo through World Class
Conservation, Education, Research and Exciting visitor experiences by
connecting people to biodiversity conservation.

OBJECTIVES
Housing of wild animals and birds with special emphasis on research and education on their ecology,
behavioural biology, physiology and enrichment in a semi-natural environment.
• Conservation breeding of the endangered species in captivity with least human imprints and to
release them in nature to recoup their status in the wild.
• To facilitate research and scientific study on animal behavior, enclosure enrichment, feed,
nutrition and reproductive biology.
• To promote education & awareness amongst visitors towards conservation of wildlife.
• To ensure housing of captive animals and birds with special emphasis on health care, animal
welfare and excellent animal husbandry.
Nandankanan Zoological Park is one of the premier large zoos located
amidst a beautiful natural setting recognized by Central Zoo Authority,
Government of India. Unlike conventional zoos, it spreads over vast 3.62
sq.km of undulating topography with natural moist deciduous forest, water
bodies and enchanting landscape that provides the zoo inhabitants an
appropriate ambience to live in harmony with the nature. It was dedicated to
the public on 29th December 1960. More than 3.2 million tourists visited the
Zoological Park during 2016-17. Most of the animals of Nandankanan live in
open, large moated areas surrounded by natural vegetation. This gives them
a feeling of living close to their natural habitat. The Zoological Park is a part
of Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary.
1
BOATING
Boating on paddle or rowing boats in the blue water
of Kanjia lake is an exhilarating experience. The
multi-storey Boat Ghat is renovated to give new looks
providing enough space for the visitors to relax and
enjoy the picturesque fresh water lake spreading over
an area of more than 66 ha. The boating service is
outsourced for better management and satisfaction of
the visitors. The lake is also known for its rich floral
and faunal diversity and is declared as a Wetland of
National Importance by Government of India.
White tiger safari
A unique White tiger safari established on 1 st
October, 1991 over an area of 12 ha in natural
surroundings. It provides exposes you to
unique situation where the visitors are
confined in a vehicle and the animals roam in
the open jungle. Nandankanan is the first zoo
in India with a white tiger safari.

Reptile Park
A reptile park, with a life size Tyrannosaurus at
its entrance with an interpretation centre houses
26 species of reptiles including Crocodiles,
Lizards, Turtles and Snakes. One would
encounter crocodiles, King cobras and
a huge Reticulated python inside the reptile park
Toy Train
The toy train has been a great attraction For
the children. Its starts from the toy train station
which goes round a circular track of 1.58 Km.
along the lake and thickly vegetated hillock
area with free ranging herbivores. The entire
facility is now under renovation
 Zoo museum
The zoo museum established in Nandankanan to
preserve, display and interpret the animal specimens
of zoological importance for public viewing and nature
education. The museum displays taxidermy
specimens, formalin preserved specimens of early
developmental stages of animals and eggs of flightless
birds. This facility will be of great interest to the visitors
in general and school children in particular.

Battery Operated Vehicle

To facilitate elderly and physically challenged
visitors in particular and tourists in general,
Battery Operated Vehicles (BOVs) are
available for tourists for an hourly trip around
the zoo on payment of Rs.50/- per head and
Rs 750/-and Rs 500/-per trip of large and small
BOVs respectively.

Electronic gate entrance system

An automated electronic entry gate system has
been installed in the Zoological Park on 30.03.2012.
Each visitor is issued with a bar-coded ticket for
entering through any of the six electronic gates into
the park. This gives an exact figure of adult,
children and foreigner visitor entry statistics at any
point of time. This facility is the first of its kind for
entry into any tourist place in Odisha.

Amphibian enclosure
An amphibian enclosure has been
established with viewers gallery over a plinth area of
56 m2. Necessary behavioural enrichments like
flowing water, saw dust, live plants, water pool etc.
have been provided within the enclosure. The
enclosure is designed to house and display
amphibian species. Nandankanan is the first premier
large zoo to exhibit amphibians.
 Library
If one has got time and an aptitude for learning
then the centrally located library, with a
wonderful collection of more than 3000
books and journals on wildlife, veterinary
and other matters can serve one's satisfaction.

ENTRY FEES AND OTHER CHARGES

NANDANKANAN ZOOLOGICAL PARK

8 Entry Fee:
Indians (Above 12
years) - Rs.25/-
Children Age group of
3-12 - Rs. 10/-
Foreign visitor - Rs.100/-
Differently able
persons
& Children below 3
years - FREE
Rs.200 &
Tourist Cottage - 300/-
Film Still Camera - Rs.5/-
Digital Still Camera - Rs. 10/-
Handy cam camera - Rs.100/-
High end Video
Camera
(Amateur
Photographer) - Rs.500/-
Movie
Camera(Professional
Photographers) - Rs.4,000/-
Safari
Lion safari & White tiger
safari - Rs. 30/-
Herbivore safari - Rs.10/-
Bear safari - Rs. 10/-
Toy Train - Rs.10/-
Aquarium
Adult - Rs.10/-
Children - Rs.5/-
Boating (for 30
minutes)
Paddle Boat (2
seater) Rs.35/-
(4
seater) Rs.70/-
Family boat Rs.120/-
Wheel chair for differently able
persons- Free
Perambulator for Rs.2/- per
children hour
Battery Operated Rs. 50/- per
Vehicle - person
Month wise number
VETERINARY CARE
Nandankanan Biological Park has always given priority
for highest standards of animal husbandry and
veterinary care. Monitoring of animal health starts from
the moment of its birth/arrival at the zoo. Prevention of
disease/ailment is the main motto of the health care
program of Nandankanan.
A dedicated veterinary hospital is located inside the park.
Three full time veterinary surgeons are providing
veterinary services to the captive animals and birds with
specialist support from the College of Veterinary Science
& Animal Husbandry (C.V.Sc & A.H) Bhubaneswar and
input from an array of experts. A five member 'Technical
Committee' constituted by Government of Odisha
regularly monitor and review the health care and related
matters. A close liaison is maintained with the C.V.Sc &
A.H., Bhubaneswar and the services of the 'Health
Committee' from C.V.Sc & A.H are requisitioned in case
of emergency. A strict protocol for vaccination, deworming
and prophylactic chemotherapy is meticulously followed
to prevent diseases.
 ANNUAL REPORT ON BIRTH OF CAPTIVE ANIMALS
AT NANDANKANAN ZOOLOGICAL PARK
FROM 01.04.2016 TO 31.03.2017

Sl. No. Date MAMMALS 33. 04.10.2016 Spotted deer 2(M)

1. 20.04.2016 Indian tiger (Normal 2 (M) 34. 06.10.2016 Hippopotamus 1(US)

coloured) 35. 10.10.2016 Brow antlered deer 1(F)
2. 30.04.2016 Blackbuck 1(F) 36. 11.10.2016 Hog deer 1(US)

3. 22.05.2016 Spotted deer 3(US) 37. 12.10.2016 Blackbuck 1(US)

38. 21.10.2016 Spotted deer 3(1M+2F)
4. 23.05.2016 Spotted deer 2(US)
39. 21.10.2016 Hog deer 2(US)
5. 24.05.2016 Spotted deer 2(US)
40. 27.10.2016 Hog deer 1(US)
6. 06.06.2016 Spotted deer 3(US)
41. 29.10.2016 Nilgai 1(US)
7. 07.06.2016 Spotted deer 2(US)
42. 06.11.2016 Hog deer 1(US)
8. 08.06.2016 Spotted deer 2(US)
43. 08.11.2016 Sambar 1(US)
9. 25.06.2016 Spotted deer 2(1M+1F)
44. 15.11.2016 Spotted deer 2(1M+1F)
10. 01.07.2016 Spotted deer 4(3M+1F)
11. 05.07.2016 Jungle cat 3(US) 45. 29.11.2016 Hog deer 2(US)

12. 05.07.2016 Spotted deer 2(US)

46. 30.11.2016 Sambar 1(US)
13. 13.07.2016 Gaur 1(M)
47. 04.01.2017 Spotted deer 2(M)
14. 19.07.2016 Spotted deer 3(1M+2F)
15. 31.07.2016 Common palm civet 4(US) 48. 14.01.2017 Spotted deer 3(2M+1F)

16. 01.08.2016 Spotted deer 3(1M+2F) 49. 17.01.2017 Spotted deer 3(1M+2F)
17. 05.08.2016 Indian tiger 3(1M+1F white 50. 19.01.2017 Brow antlered deer 1(US)
cubs and 1 male
melanistic cub ) 51. 24.01.2017 Spotted deer 4(M)
18. 09.08.2016 Indian tiger (Normal 2(1 white colour 52. 25.01.2017 Hippopotamus 1(US)
coloured) male +1 Normal
colour female) 53. 27.01.2017 Spotted deer 4(M)
19. 19.08.2016 Four horned antelope 1(US)
54. 28.01.2017 Hog deer 2(US)
20. 31.08.2016 Blackbuck 1(F)
55. 29.01.2017 Spotted deer 5(2M+3F)
21. 31.08.2016 Barking deer 3(US)
22. 31.08.2016 Spotted deer 2(F) 56. 01.02.2017 Spotted deer 5(3M+2F)
23. 04.09.2016 Sambar 1(US) 57. 03.02.2017 Spotted deer 3(1M+2F)
24. 06.09.2016 Spotted deer 3(F)
58. 04.02.2017 Spotted deer 5(3M+2F)
25. 08.09.2016 Blackbuck 1(US)
26. 18.09.2016 Spotted deer 2(M) 59. 17.02.2017 Spotted deer 4(3M+1F)

27. 21.09.2016 Spotted deer 5 (US) 60. 01.03.2017 Spotted deer 8(7M+1F)
28. 22.09.2016 Common palm civet 4 (US)
61. 05.03.2017 Spotted deer 7(5M+2F)
29. 23.09.2016 Spotted deer 4(US)
62. 06.03.2017 Lion 1(US)
30. 28.09.2016 Spotted deer 4 (US)

31. 30.09.2016 Hog deer 1(US) 63. 08.03.2017 Spotted deer 4(2M+2F)

32. 30.09.2016 Spotted deer 5(US) 64. 16.03.2017 Spotted deer 7(4M+3F)

27
 STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN, NANDANKANAN

The State Botanical Garden spreads over an area of 75 ha. is situated in the sylvan settings of the moist deciduous
forest of the sprawling green Nandankanan Sanctuary hemmed between two wetlands. The Botanical Garden was
established in the year 1963 and was under the management of Horticulture Department. The management of the
State Botanical Garden was transferred to Nandankanan on 01.08.2006. One would be definitely impressed by the
nature's symphony and the exquisite touch of the wilderness here. This is one of the pioneering plant conservation
and nature education centre of the State. The Botanical garden is sure to provide memorable experience to the
green enthusiasts. The State Botanical Garden is situated inside Nandankanan wildlife sanctuary. Kiakani lake with
an area of about 25 ha. is located inside the State Botanical Garden.
Timing INFRASTRUCTURE
The Garden remains open in all public days except The Botanical Garden covers 21 different theme
Mondays from 7.30 AM to 5.30 PM (April to based gardens spread all over undulating landscapes
September) during summer and 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM mixed with natural vegetation and meadows. The
(October to March) during winter. following important facilities are available in the State
Botanical Garden at Nandankanan.
BOTANICAL GARDEN
BOTANICAL GARDEN Glass house
Children upto 12 years- Free A spacious glass house of 2013 sqft. Has been
developed for housing succulent plants. A state of art
Adult - Rs.10/-
green house of 5200 sqft. Houses the cultivars of 60
Two wheeler - Rs.30/- species of indoor plants like Aglaonema, Philodendron,
Three wheeler - Rs.30/- Calathea, Cordyline, Diffenbachia, Spathiphyllum,
Four wheeler - Rs. 100/- Peperomia, Monstera, Hemigraphis, Asplenium etc.
Heavy vehicle- Rs.200/- The Cacti House
Picnic spot A 1080 sqft polyhouse houses of important species of
Smaller pindies - Rs. 250/- + Rs. 50/ cacti and succulents and a glass house of 2013 sqft.
(Service charges ) each. Displays many species of indoor plants.
Bigger pindies - Rs. 500/- + Rs. 50/ Bonsai
(Service charges ) each. A rich collection of more than 400 Bonsai plants are
Each room of the barrack - Rs. 1200/- + Rs. 100/ available adjoining to the Glass house.
(Service charges ) Children Park
FRH-I- (Suit-I) - Rs.3000.00+ Rs. 100/- A niche for the kids has been created within the
Service charges natural setting by providing swings, merry-go-round,
FRH-I-(Suit-II) - Rs.2500.00+ Rs. 100/-
sliding chute etc.
Service charges Artificial Zoo
FRH-II - Rs.2500.00+Rs. 100/- Models of animals are used to explain the ecological
Service charges niche with an objective to generate awareness
amongst the children.
Holiday Cottage - (ground floor) Rs.2500.00+ Rs. 100/-
Service charges Nursery
Holiday Cottage - (first floor) Rs.2500.00+ Rs. 100/- A well equipped nursery exists in the garden for
Service charges production of different seedlings and to accommodate
the plants for display and sale. It is having a captive
Special picnic pindies - Rs. 1500/- + Rs. 100/-
vermin compost unit.
(Service charges) each
 Educational Benefits of Visiting a Zoo
Enhanced Language Development
As children walk around the zoo, they are exposed to words and concepts. It also
encourages dialogue between parents, children and even siblings. While walking around
with your child, it is important to label every animal and ask questions. This will help
increase their vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Promotes Family Bonding

Visiting a zoo is the perfect way to spend a day together as a family. Grandparents,
parents, cousins and siblings can all find something to enjoy at the zoo. One of my
fondest recent memories is visiting the Turtle Back Zoo with my mom, grandmother and
two boys. It was an exciting and magical day for everyone!

Attend Special Events and Activities

Many zoos offer exciting and educational activities and special events. For example,
Turtle Back Zoo and Cape May County Zoo both offer night-time programs where visitors
get a first hand look at how animals behave and interact at night. Other events may
include conservation days and days dedicated to specific animals. Seasonal events such
as the holiday lights at Turtle Back Zoo and Zoo Boo at the Bergen County Zoo are also
great events for families to enjoy.

Encourages Environmental Awareness

Visiting a zoo helps children understand the importance of taking care of the environment
as it has a significant impact on the lives and welfare of animals. Zoos also teach families
about the importance of conservation and animal care. Children can especially learn
about the impact humans have on animals at Popcorn Zoo as this zoo only takes in
animals that are sick, elderly, abandoned, abused or injured. Visitors can learn the unique
story about each animal as they walk around the zoo.

Offers Educational Programs

Most zoos offer educational programming including camps that help children become
more aware of animal behavior, care and conservation. These programs, like the ones
offered at The Bergen County Zoo, offer a structured, fun and hands-on learning
environment for kids and families. They often include stories, songs, crafts and activities.
These multi-sensory based learning programs are perfect for instilling knowledge about
animals.

Great Exercise
Most zoos cover a vast amount of land which allows for ample exercise. Space Farms
Zoo, for instance, has wide open spaces including several hills which is perfect for getting
the heart pumping. Many zoos also provide playground areas for children to work those
gross motor skills while making new friends. My favorite zoo playground is the Prehistoric
Playground at the Turtle Back Zoo.

Increase Academic Knowledge

Even if you don’t attend the educational programs, activities or special events, children will
still absorb an insane amount of knowledge when visiting a zoo. They will use all of their
senses to take in their surroundings and expand their understanding about animals and
their environment. They will learn the way an animal smells, the sounds he makes, the
way he feels and what he looks like. Zoos offer a true multi-sensory approach to learning!

Get Hands-On
For many kids, and adults, the best way to learn is by doing and feeling. Many zoos offer
petting and feeding areas which allow kids to truly immerse themselves in the animals
lives. The Turtle Back Zoo also offers an amazing Touch Tank where visitors can touch
live sharks and stingrays. It is an experience the kids will not forget!

Sparks Curiosity
As soon as a child enters a zoo, their eyes widen and the wheels start turning. “Mommy
can I see that animal?” “Mommy where does that animal come from?” “Mommy can I take
that one home?” Kids are innately curious which allows them to learn and take in their
environment. Zoos encourage curiosity thus encourage learning and brain development!

Allows for Exploration and Self-Discovery

What I love most about the zoo, is that it allows children to explore their environment and
make new discoveries. This all leads to cognitive, language, motor and academic growth.
While exploring a zoo, children go on a wild adventure full of running around, asking
questions and engaging in storytelling. These activities are key for healthy development!
Exploring their environment also helps children become more self-aware. They learn what
animals they like and don’t like. They also learn to move past their fears and trepidation
about certain animals, reptiles and bugs.
 Conclusion
Zoos are important for education and conservation and bio-diversity.
We have created safe habitats for seven animals in order to save City Zoo!
Animals all have their own habitat needs in order that they are healthy, live
long lives, and have babies.
A visit to a zoo is one of the most enthralling and exciting things. It is
an interesting way to let the children see animals, which they cannot see
otherwise. A visit to a zoo is an entertaining activity not just for children but
also for adults as it increases their knowledge and makes them wonder at the
marvelous of nature.
 CONTENT’
1-INTRODUCTION
2-MISSION
3-OBJETIVES
4-ENTRY FEE
5-VETERINARY CARE
6-ANNUAL REPORT ON BIRTH OF
CAPTIVE ANIMALS
7-STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN
8- BENEFITS
9-CONCLUSION