Hyderabad: The Nehru Zoological Park (NZP) has added to its roster of exotic wildlife with the introduction of a pair of Serval Cats, which were released into a newly prepared enclosure for public viewing on Sunday. Native to the African continent, these sleek, spotted cats can live up to 16 years in captivity.
Following the release, Dr. C. Suvarna, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF), inaugurated the revamped Fossil Park Garden. A visual highlight of the zoo, the garden features diverse plant species arranged in the shape of the Telangana map.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. C. Suvarna highlighted that Nehru Zoological Park is renowned for its diverse collection of animals housed in open moated enclosures.
“With the addition of the Serval Cats, our zoo’s collection has grown to 195 species. The zoo’s captive breeding programme is commendable, with nearly all species successfully bred within the facility,” she noted.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Suvarna, accompanied by PCCF (Wildlife) Elusing Meru, Zoo Director Sunil S. Hiremath, and other forest department officials, kickstarted a mega plantation drive as part of the Vana Mahotsavam celebrations. Saplings of Ficus, fruit-bearing, and shade-giving trees were planted near the reptile house to enhance the zoo’s green cover.
