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Source-This post is based on the article “At 14, Darjeeling zoo now has world’s largest number of snow leopards in captivity” published in “The Indian Express” on 11th January 2024.
Why in the News?
After 40 years of a conservation breeding program, the Darjeeling zoo now holds the world’s largest captive snow leopard population. This takes the total number of snow leopards to 14 which is evenly split between 7 males and 7 females.
What is the snow leopard conservation breeding program at Darjeeling Zoo?
1) It is the first and only conservation program in the country for snow leopards.
2) It was initiated at Darjeeling Zoo in 1985.
3) A major highlight of the conservation breeding program is the utilization of a broad genetic pool for snow leopard breeding.
What are the features of Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (Darjeeling zoo)?
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | It is situated in Darjeeling, in the Indian state of West Bengal. |
| Features | 1. It is the largest high altitude zoo in India. 2. It specializes in breeding animals adapted to alpine conditions. 3. It has successful captive breeding programs for the snow leopard, the endangered Himalayan wolf and the red panda. 4. The zoo serves as the central hub for Central Zoo Authority of India’s red panda program. 5. It is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). |
About Snow Leopards
UPSC Syllabus- Environment
