Call for more trained staff at Nehru zoo

HYDERABAD: It seems a lack of trained zoo-keepers and officials is causing lax upkeep of the Nehru Zoological park. “Even two years back, the zoo used to be a lush green space and many visitors came back for a revisit. But many areas have turned dry and some species are not here anymore,” said SK Nannemiya, a visitor.The zoo, which is spread over 380 acres, houses around 2,100 wild animals and birds. “On an average 9,000 people visit daily. But 56 animal-keepers, 71 gardeners and 16 other officials are not enough to keep the zoo clean and maintain sustainable development of animals,” said MA Waheed, the zoo curator. He added they needed at least 35 more zoo-keepers and 15 gardeners, who have basic understanding of the animals’ food and other habits.“Some of the zoo-keepers are just class VII pass. There is a need for well-educated and trained zoo beat officers who can help in better all-round maintenance of the zoo and especially animal enclosures,” Waheed said. He added he had appealed to the Central Zoo Authority of India for more staff but there was no positive response. The zoo has recently hired about 20 workers and 25 security personnel.When asked about reasons of death of 20 wild species over the last year, Waheed said, “There are many reasons behind the death of an animal which could be the weather, food habits, health problem and zoo-keepers not taking proper care of the animals. That is why we need well-trained and sufficient staff,” he observed.“According to CZAI guidelines, zoo-keepers and officials should have constant interaction to understand conservation issues, animal feeding schedules and kitchen maintenance. But it it is not witnessed here,” said Dr MA Hakeem, assistant director (veterinary). Zoo-keepers should have an idea on things like natural instincts of animals and enclosure designs. “For instance, big cats like lions and tigers have the habit of marking their territory. The staff should be able to identify symptoms of a disease-stricken animal and changes in their behaviour pattern. Then only they can provide better support to control deaths of animals in the zoo,” he added.