The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) in Visakhapatnam has taken a significant step in wildlife conservation by initiating a breeding program for the endangered Asiatic wild dog, also known as the dhole (Cuon alpinus). This initiative is crucial in safeguarding the dwindling population of these magnificent predators, which play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

Dholes are highly social animals that thrive in packs and exhibit remarkable teamwork while hunting. Despite being apex predators, they face severe threats from habitat destruction, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and diseases transmitted by domestic animals. Over the years, their numbers have drastically declined, making conservation efforts essential for their survival.

The Vizag Zoo has been home to dholes since 1992 and has actively contributed to their rescue and rehabilitation. With a well-maintained habitat and an experienced team of wildlife experts, the zoo has successfully increased its dhole population to 30, consisting of 24 males and six females. The new breeding initiative aims to further strengthen these numbers and ensure a genetically diverse and healthy population for future reintroduction programs.

The breeding season for dholes generally occurs between September and November, with a gestation period of about 62 to 63 days. The newborn pups are blind at birth and rely entirely on their mother and the pack for sustenance and protection. The zoo authorities have created an ideal environment that mimics the natural habitat of dholes, ensuring they receive proper care, nutrition, and medical attention.

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has laid down specific guidelines for captive breeding programs, ensuring that conservation breeding follows ethical and scientific principles. The Vizag Zoo is working in close collaboration with wildlife experts, veterinarians, and researchers to understand the behavioral and reproductive patterns of dholes, which will help refine breeding strategies.

One of the critical aspects of the program is to raise awareness about the importance of dholes in the ecosystem. Unlike big cats such as tigers and leopards, dholes are often overlooked in conservation efforts despite their critical role in maintaining prey populations and forest health. By highlighting their significance, the zoo hopes to garner more support for their conservation and protection.

In addition to breeding, the zoo also focuses on educating visitors about the plight of dholes through awareness campaigns, guided tours, and interactive sessions with experts. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable conservation model where these endangered canines can eventually be released into protected forest reserves, helping to restore their natural population in the wild.

The efforts of Vizag Zoo in initiating this breeding program showcase a commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of India’s rich biodiversity. By ensuring the survival of the Asiatic wild dogs, the zoo is contributing to the broader mission of ecological balance and wildlife protection.