117 deaths of animals in zoos this year; maximum at Delhi Zoo: Government

NEW DELHI: Over 110 animals have died in zoos across the country in the current year with maximum number of deaths reported from Delhi's National Zoological Park, Lok Sabha was informed today.

"A total number 117 deaths of animals have occurred in 26 zoos in 17 states and Union Territories in the current year," Union Minister of State for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar said in a written reply.

Out of these 117 cases, 25 deaths have occurred at the National Zoological Park in Delhi.

The minister said that since most of the deaths of animals in zoos are due to natural reasons, such as old age, cardiac arrest, pneumonia and septicaemia, no action is required to be taken by the government.

He said that the Central Zoo Authority has stipulated norms under Recognition of Zoo (Amendment) Rules, 2013 with reference to protection of animals which include timely supply of quality food and water, regular screening for parasitic loads, upkeep and healthcare of zoo animals and screening against zoonotic diseases by the veterinary officer of the zoo.