Sambalpur: Sambalpur Zoo has introduced a man-eater leopard, which was captured and shifted from Khariar in Nuapada district to a rescue centre in Sambalpur Zoo, to its expanded and renovated enclosure.
This 8-year-old male leopard, previously involved in human-wildlife conflict, will now cohabitate with a 6-year-old female leopard, said sources.
As per the reports, the Central Zoo Authority’s (CZA) 111th Technical Committee has approved the pairing of the male leopard with Sambalpur Zoo’s existing female leopard, following a recommendation from Odisha’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Wildlife.
On September 9, 2024, the male leopard was introduced to the same night house as the 6-year-old female leopard. The public display commenced on October 1, 2024.
Initially, the leopards will be displayed alternately for 2-3 months to ensure compatibility. To facilitate bonding, they are housed in separate chambers within the same night house. Once their behaviour indicates readiness, they will be integrated. This phased introduction aims to maximize the chances of a successful pairing, said zoo sources.
For enhanced safety and monitoring, CCTV cameras have been installed in both leopard chambers and display enclosures.
Until they are compatible, the leopards will be displayed at alternate timings. Trained teams will conduct 24/7 physical monitoring and continuous observation, added zoo sources.
The leopard enclosure at Sambalpur Zoo has meanwhile undergone significant upgrades such as expansion to 550 sq.m in 2023 to accommodate multiple leopards, a glass viewing facility for unobstructed views and a 20×7 feet glass viewing area that provides optimal visibility.
