Zoos of Western India protect a number of animals including rare and endangered species. A variety of animals are kept in these zoos, confined within enclosures where they are displayed to the public. Mostly wild animals are kept here and the zoos focus on the protection of animal rights. Given below are the Zoos of Gujarat, Zoos of Maharashtra, Zoo of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Zoo of Daman and Diu.
Zoos of Gujarat
Gujarat hosts a number of zoos. Kamla Nehru Zoo is a famous zoo of the state located along the Kankaria Lake. Inhabitants of the zoo are a number of albino animals such as American alligator, deer and red-necked wallaby. Besides this, reptiles and other animals are also found in the zoo. Sakkarbag Zoo is considered as the third oldest zoo of the country. It is famous for breeding Gir lions and supplying it to other zoos. The zoo also hosts a museum which has a unique collection of stuffed animals, inscriptions, art furniture, ancient coins etc. Another important zoo of the state is Junagadh Zoo. It is located in Junagadh district and is also renowned for Gir lions. It is an old zoo built in the year 1863 by a nawab with the objective of saving lions from extinction.
Zoos of Maharashtra
A number of zoos are also situated in Maharashtra which serves to protect and preserve numerous species of animals. Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park was established in 1999. It houses a vast variety of reptiles, birds, mammals etc. Katraj Snake Park is well known for snakes and about 160 species of snakes have been identified here. Established in 1986, the zoo is situated in Pune. Mumbai Zoo, also known as Veermata Jijabhai Bhonsle Udyan, is situated near Byculla. A huge number of endangered species are found in the zoo in addition to other animals like lions, tigers, monkeys, bears and elephants. Maharaj Baug and Zoo is situated in Nagpur and was founded by the rulers of Bhonsle dynasty. The zoo houses some of the very rare species of birds.
Zoo of Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Dadra and Nagar Haveli has a mini zoo, more specifically a deer park. It was established in the year 1987.
Zoo of Daman and Diu
Daman and Diu also has a mini zoo, more specifically a deer park. It was established in the year 1992.
Thus it can be said that Zoos of Western India play a key role in the preservation of natural resources of the country. They also serve as great tourist attractions and as excursion centers.
