Just ahead of the upcoming tourist season, the Nandankanan Zoological Park has brought great news for wildlife enthusiasts and families.
On the occasion of State-Level Wildlife Week celebrations, the zoo administration officially opened new enclosures featuring 36 newly arrived animals and birds across 11 rare species for public viewing today.
Among the star attractions are African zebras, kangaroos, Bennett’s wallabies, meerkats, and tufted capuchin monkeys. The bird section has also received a vibrant upgrade with the addition of scarlet ibises, sulphur-crested cockatoos, and three colourful species of macaws—exotic species rarely seen in the region.
Designed for optimal animal comfort, the state-of-the-art enclosures allow visitors to observe these species from a close yet safe distance. Zoo authorities emphasised that these additions will enrich the visitor experience, drive conservation awareness, and serve as an educational showcase, particularly for children and first-time guests.
Surging Footfall and Infrastructure Upgrades
Nandan Kanan has experienced a steady surge in visitor numbers in recent years:
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FY 2024–25: Recorded a historic 39.52 lakh visitors.
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Calendar Year 2025: Increased to 40.20 lakh visitors.
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FY 2025–26: Maintained strong momentum with approximately 39.76 lakh tourists.
With the peak winter tourist period (November through February) around the corner, footfall is expected to reach new heights. Last winter, the zoo recorded daily turnouts exceeding 43,000 visitors, a number expected to be surpassed this season.
Deputy Director Pradeep Mirase expressed confidence that the combination of new foreign species and upgraded facilities will attract more family-oriented crowds and school groups this winter. To accommodate the expected influx, the park management has strengthened visitor amenities, including streamlined ticketing counters, expanded parking zones, purified drinking water outlets, and upgraded security arrangements.
