Zookeepers trained on management of captive wildlife

Dimapur, Aug. 21 (EMN): Nagaland Zoological Park (NZP), in collaboration with Aaranyak- a scientific and industrial research organisation with a mission of carrying out research, training and conservation activities in Northeast India- conducted a two-day training programme for zookeepers on management of captive wildlife at NZP on August 18 and 19.

An update from NZP stated that a wide range of related topics were covered including primates and enrichment, birds and its enrichment, basic of husbandry practices, treatment, care and managements, and hands-on training in the zoo. It stated that the training had provided participants with an initial understanding of the basic principles of husbandry practices, experience with the methods and techniques used for enrichment of the captive animals. The course consisted of daily lectures and field exercises.

Speaking at the inaugural programme, the chief wildlife warden and additional principal chief conservator of forest (territorial), Vedpal Singh, welcomed the trainee from NZP and interns from Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Pondicherry. He informed that the training was first of its kind in Nagaland. He expressed confidence that the training would help trainees build their capacity in the management of captive animals at the zoological park.

Also speaking on the occasion, the director of NZP, Dr. C Zupeni Tsanglai, stated that zoo keepers are the backbone of the park and added that without their dedication and hard work, it would be impossible to keep any animal at the zoo.

Dr. Tsanglai also thanked Aaranyak for supporting the noble cause.

Dr. Dilip Chetry, head of primate research and conservation initiatives of Aaranyak, called upon the participants to make use of the training to enhance their knowledge on animal husbandry and enrichment. Dr. Chetry also highlighted the different primates in Nagaland and its importance for the conservation.

The inauguration session was also addressed by Dr. Michael Imti Imchen, zoo veterinarian at NZP.

The second day training programme was inaugurated by Dharmendra Prakash, principal chief conservator of forest and head of forest force, wherein he assured all the help and support from the department of Environment and Forest and Climate Change, government of Nagaland.

Dr. Bijay Gogoi from Assam State Zoo, Guwahati, and Dr. Samshul Ali of Wildlife Trust of India, also spoke on the occasion.