5-year-old rock python dies at Delhi zoo

The snake section at Delhi’s National Zoological Park was temporarily closed for visitors after a five-year-old rock python died on Tuesday, reducing the python population to seven in the reptile collection.

The officials said that the 10-foot-long reptile had been undergoing treatment for the past two days.

“The exact cause of death will be confirmed only after the post-mortem examination and laboratory diagnosis. The samples have been sent to the lab for analysis,” Sanjeet Singh, the Zoo director, said, adding that the reptile had gone into hibernation, but due to distress, it emerged from its hideout. Upon inspection, it was given treatment.

The Delhi zoo park made headlines recently after three jackals crossed the animal enclosure area and escaped into the adjoining forest. The zoo authorities said that while two of them were safely herded back, one is still at large.

Winter arrangements made

The zoo officials informed that detailed species-wise and age-wise strategies have been chalked out for the winter. These include species- and individual-specific protocols for both young and old animals, along with paddy-straw bedding and huts for herbivores and birds. “Wooden planks and mats have been arranged for carnivores and primates, while room heaters and dehumidifiers have been installed in animal enclosures,” an official said.

Special arrangements have also been made in the reptile house for thermoregulation and humidity monitoring. The winter diet of the animals has been modified to include nuts, jaggery and sugarcane, supplemented with additional nutrients and immuno-boosters. Bamboo jaffri (mats) and thatches have been added to bird enclosures and other sensitive sections, and blankets are being provided for young primates. A strict veterinary protocol for winter is also being enforced, the officials said.