Sambalpur: Man-Eating Leopard from Nuapada Joins Sambalpur Zoo’s Breeding Program with 6-Year-Old Female Leopard
Sambalpur: Sambalpur Zoo has welcomed an 8-year-old male leopard, known for causing human-wildlife conflict, into its newly expanded enclosure. This leopard was captured in Khariar, Nuapada district, and transported to the zoo’s rescue center for a special breeding program.
The male leopard will soon be paired with a 6-year-old female leopard already living in the zoo. This pairing was approved by the Central Zoo Authority’s (CZA) 111th Technical Committee, following a recommendation from Odisha’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Wildlife.
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On September 9, 2024, the male leopard and female leopard were introduced to the same night house. Visitors can see them since October 1, 2024. For the first 2-3 months, the leopards will be displayed at various times to ensure they get along well. They are kept in separate chambers within the same night house to allow them to bond gradually. Once their behavior indicates that they are ready, the leopards will be brought together in the same space. This slow introduction improves the likelihood of a successful pairing.
CCTV cameras have been installed in both the leopards’ chambers and display areas to ensure their safety and monitor their interactions.
Until the leopards become comfortable with each other, they will be shown to the public at alternate times. A trained team will keep an eye on them 24/7, both physically and through constant observation, according to zoo sources.
In 2023, the leopard enclosure was expanded to 550 square meters to house multiple leopards. It also now includes a glass viewing area, offering visitors clear, unobstructed views of the animals. The viewing area measures 20×7 feet, providing a great experience for visitors.
