PNHZP adopts special heating measures amid Darjeeling’s winter chill

DARJEELING,: To combat the bitter cold gripping Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) in Darjeeling, authorities have implemented special heating arrangements for the animals in the zoo.

The Darjeeling Hills have recently experienced fluctuating weather with temperatures dipping below 3°C during early mornings on particularly cold days.

PNHZP director Basavraj Holeyachi stated, “We want to ensure the well-being of the animals, especially during the coldest days. While many of our animals are adapted to high-altitude, cold conditions, we are taking precautionary measures to prevent any adverse effects of the winter chill. We have installed humidifiers and heaters in the night shelters for use when necessary.”

To further aid the animals, around 25 heaters and hot-air blowers have been placed near the enclosures of carnivorous species. Additionally, the night shelters, constructed with wooden planks, help maintain warmth by providing insulation.

With Darjeeling experiencing hailstones on Monday and daytime temperatures dropping, experts predict a further decline in temperature in the coming days.

Meanwhile, director Holeyachi assured that two male red pandas brought from Rotterdam Zoo in the Netherlands are in good health and adapting well to their new environment. The pandas, brought under an exchange program on December 25 last year, are currently in quarantine at the Topgaydara breeding center run by the PNHZP.

Founded in 1958, the PNHZP is renowned for its efforts in the captive breeding of endangered Himalayan species including Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Tibetan Wolf, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr and Satyr Tragopan (crimson horned pheasant).