Bhubaneswar: Nandankanan Zoological Park is preparing to enrich its animal collection with an array of rare and notable species from around the globe.
Among the new arrivals will be the Red Kangaroo, the largest and most recognizable marsupial of Australia, which will be housed in a specially crafted enclosure dubbed ‘Australian Adventure’. This remarkable animal, known for its distinctive pouch, strong hind legs, long tail, and impressive jumping abilities, thrives in Australia’s arid and semi-arid landscapes. Zoo officials have confirmed that a dedicated habitat for the kangaroo has already been established.
In a post on its official X account, Nandankanan Zoological Park stated: “The Red Kangaroo, Australia’s largest and most iconic marsupial, is set to arrive at Nandankanan. Known for its powerful leaps and unique pouch, this fascinating species will soon be a new attraction at the zoo.”
Reports indicate that a formal agreement was signed on August 1 by the government with a transportation agency to facilitate the arrival of the Red Kangaroo, along with Cheetahs and African Zebras, from various states and foreign locations. Special enclosures have been constructed for both Cheetahs and African Zebras.
The Cheetah, which has been extinct in India since 1952, has been the focus of Project Cheetah initiated in 2022, with the introduction of animals from Namibia followed by later arrivals from South Africa and Botswana.
Additionally, Nandankanan will welcome the Blue Wildebeest, widely recognized for its part in Africa’s famed migrations. Authorities announced: “Famous for Africa’s legendary migrations, the Blue Wildebeest is heading to Nandankanan! A brand-new species arrives, bringing a whole new story and a touch of the African wilderness to Odisha.”
Enhancing the park’s diversity further, the Red Panda, a gentle mammal native to the Eastern Himalayas, will also join the collection. Zoo officials shared: “Red Panda, an Eastern Himalayan mammal, is set to arrive at Nandankanan. Known for its reddish-brown coat, bushy tail & gentle nature, it will soon add a new attraction to the zoo.”
With these new additions representing wildlife from Australia, Africa, and the Himalayas, Nandankanan is set to provide visitors with a more enriching experience of global fauna right in the heart of Odisha.
