Cold wave with the dipping mercury has paralysed the normal life and also hit zoo inmates badly.
The intense cold wave puts the authorities of Jawaharlal Nehru Biological Park (JNB) at Bokaro Steel City on toes. With the dipping mercury the zoo menu has taken an organic turn for the omnivores, herbivores and carnivores animals. The authorities are struggling to form a bed for them made of grass and protect them through jute curtains and change in diet. Heaters have also been arranged for the selected few to keep the birds and animals warm.
The diet chart of the carnivores has undergone a change to keep their body warmer and stronger to fight diseases of the winter. “Milk and eggs along with meat are made available for them to retain energy for a longer period,” a zoo official said. All birds and rabbits are provided with curtains made of jute for warmth and cosy nests. Heaters would also be fixed close to the cages of birds. They are getting meals three times a day in winter. Their food includes chopped spinach, wheat chappatis and fresh seasonal fruits, said the official.
“Special care has been given to the birds as for most of them winter is their mating season”, he added. The authorities have also planned bonfires to keep the animals warm with the further dip in the temperature. Also for water animals and birds, including ducks, flamingos, crocodiles and ghariyals, they are given sumptuous meals of fresh fish which is rich in proteins and fats so as to beat the chill.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Biological Park of Bokaro spread over 127 acres of land having more than 437 animals and birds with more than 75,000 trees and medicinal plants.