AI-Generated Summary
Sakkarbaug Zoological Gardens in Junagadh, Gujarat, has agreed to send a trio of pure-bred Asiatic lions and a female wild ass to Vandalur Zoo in Chennai. This initiative, part of the national animal exchange programme, will end Vandalur's 15-year wait for pure-bred Asiatic lions. The transfer, pending final approval from Gujarat's Chief Minister, aims to boost Vandalur's conservation and breeding programmes by introducing a distinct gene pool. In return, Vandalur will send various species including an Indian gaur and white tigers to Gujarat.
In a nutshell
This agreement underscores Gujarat's pivotal role in the ex-situ conservation of the endangered Asiatic lion, leveraging Sakkarbaug Zoo's internationally recognized breeding program. The exchange highlights a significant collaborative effort between states to enhance genetic diversity and strengthen national wildlife preservation initiatives.
Source: Times of India
