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Vandalur inmates beat the heat in comfort
by Jaikumar

          Vandalur (Chennai): The Vandalur animals have a comfortable time in the summer. Authorities at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park near Chennai have made arrangements for enough water for drinking, wading, bathing, and to keep the animal shelters cool. A special menu has also been prepared for four chimpanzees,acquired from Singapore two years ago. These chimps are given a nutritious diet that includes milk, chana grams, apples and banana. Water is sprayed all over the enclosures thrice a day to beat the scorching heat. Srinivasan, an elephant keeper, takes care of their special needs. "In October, 2005, our zoo got four chimpanzees, two male and two female from Singapore named-Kuppi, Kokkitokko, Sokki and Toeri. Keeping in view the new environment, particularly the summer heat, we have been taking extra care of these chimps," said Srinivasan. "As usual, their daily diet includes Kadala (chana gram) 10 bananas, five apples and milk. They are fed more (butter milk) and lassi (churned curds). Water is regularly sprayed in their enclosure. Coolers have been fixed. A well, ropes and handle bars have been set up for their recreation," he added. "Their furniture also includes a dining table and chairs. All care is being given. In case, anything abnormal is observed, the vet is instantly informed," Srinivasan said.

           For the elephants, water-filled troughs have been provided to enable them to laze. The also enjoy a mud bath occasionally. Watching the animals enjoy their food and relaxation time has brought a smile to the faces of onlookers, especially children. The tiny-tots and their parents are simply fascinated to see these animals being fed and bathed in the zoo. "I am very happy to come here. The children are very happy during summer holidays. When water is sprayed on monkeys, they chatter in ecstasy and the children are very happy," said Anbhazhagan, a visitor. Spread over 510 hectares, the zoo houses at least 46 endangered animals. It is considered one of the biggest zoos in South East Asia, comprising over 170 species of mammals, aviaries and reptiles. Set up originally in 1855 in the heart of Chennai, it was shifted to Vandalur in 1979.
-May 1,  2007