Sambalpur: Summer Heat has increased the concern of the Deer Park authorities

“A leopard sleeps in the cooler, a bear eats a watermelon“

Sambalpur: Deer Park, which is said to be the only zoo in Sambalpur, has made various arrangements to save the animals from the scorching summer. Sambalpur has been the hottest city in the state since June and the temperature hovers around 45 degrees Celsius, the deer park on Moti Jharan Hills is bustling day and night.

According to the information, all 27 enclosures of Deer Park are covered with green nets from the top and four sides with bamboo fences. These nets are sprinkled with water twice daily. When the temperature is highest during the day, water rains on the animals and birds, soaking them. Last month, the leopard was found sleeping in front of a cooler in its chamber, outside the size of its enclosure.

In addition, the enclosure is topped with a bamboo canopy to keep it cool. Keeping the intense heat in mind, the 27-enclosure city has doubled the jungle experience. The leopard enclosure which was earlier 250 square meters has now been made 500 square meters. A cooler is installed in the chamber where the leopard rests in this enclosure. Due to the intense heat outside, during the day, the leopard has changed the food habits of all 17 types of 330 animals.

Birds and herbivores are additionally fed watermelons and cucumbers. Glucose water is being provided to everyone to drink. Adequate water supply is provided in all enclosures. Medicines and necessary vaccines have been provided to all. In terms of animal health, a regular veterinary specialist has been appointed in the zoo this year. Therefore, the health of all the animals can be checked every day. A veterinary hospital and a surgery room with modern equipment have been set up inside the zoo. A rescue center with all equipment for emergency needs has also been opened.

Sambalpur Zoo now has different types of animals like leopard, bear, antelope, sambar, Chitra deer, reptiles like pythons, and different types of birds, DFO Anshupragya Das said. A botanical garden has now been developed in Sambalpur Deer Park. A 1 km long walking track is arranged for people to take their morning walks and arrangements for children to play. Regular watering is done to keep flowers, lawns, etc. during sunny days. Battery-powered wheelchairs are available for senior citizens and children. Therefore, Sambalpur Zoo brings the experience of the forest within the city, said Ms. Das.