Bhubaneswar: The Nandankanan Zoological Park is set to expand its animal collection with the arrival of several new species under an exchange programme with Indira Gandhi Zoological Park. The initiative aims to enhance genetic diversity and strengthen conservation efforts at both zoos.
According to officials, Nandankanan will receive ring-tailed lemurs (1 male and 1 female), wild dogs (1:1), a sulphur-crested cockatoo (1:0), bonnet macaques (2:2), and nilgai (1:1) from the Visakhapatnam zoo. In return, Nandankanan will send swamp deer (1:2), four-horned antelope (1:2), Assamese macaques (1:1), mouse deer (2:2), and gharials (1:2).
The animal exchange programme has been approved by the Central Zoo Authority in New Delhi and is scheduled to take place between March 7 and March 10, 2026. Officials said coordinated efforts are underway to ensure the animals are transported safely and comfortably.
A team from the Visakhapatnam zoo has already arrived at Nandankanan to oversee logistical arrangements for the transfer.
Zoo authorities said the programme will introduce the ring-tailed lemur as a new species at Nandankanan while also contributing to improved genetic diversity and conservation outcomes for both institutions.
