|
Nandankanan National Park - Located at a short distance
from Bhubaneshwar, there lies a miraculous zoo in the
splendid environs of the Chandaka forest. The zoo
contains a botanical garden with the soothing sound of
water of the Kanjia Lake. Due to its being a successful
breeding ground for endangered species such as Asiatic
lion , Indian crocodiles, Sangal lion, tailed macaque,
Nilgiri |
 |
|
langur,
Indian pangolin, mouse deer and countless birds,
reptiles and fish; a part of the zoo has been declared
as a sanctuary.
34aquaria, another part of the zoo is home to a large
variety of fresh water fish. The reptiles at the zoo are
also guarded well in a park. Its cave like entrance
takes the desired care of numerous species of
crocodiles, lizards, turtles and snakes who share the
park with natural ease.
With 67 species of mammals, 18 varieties of reptiles
and 81 species of birds coexisting in the deeply forest
boundaries; the zoo enjoys an excellent reputation both
nationally and inter nationally for successfully
breeding black panthers , gharial crocodiles and white
tigers in captivity.
Extensive research and concentrated efforts of the zoo
officials have been instrumental in giving a new
direction to the existence of White Tiger, one of the
rarest creatures in the World. The natural environs of
Nandankanan facilitated the mating and the entire zoo
got filled with unmatchable excitement and jubilation,
in 1980 when the first litter of White tigers were born
to Deepak and Ganga, to tawny tigers. Subsequent litters
of white tigers have been distributed to zoos both home
and abroad. Currently, Nandankanan is home to over 34
white tigers and is famous for its white tiger
population. Nandankanan or the garden of Gods offering
the most natural and growth conducive environment to
these royal animals has become an all time favorite for
tourists and locals both.
Just 20 kms from the state capital, the zoo is spread over a
sprawling area of 20 kms.
|
