Establishment and Maintenance of Zoological Parks

Establishment  and Maintenance of Zoological Parks

  Establishing a zoological park is a tedious and an expensive job. Equally difficult is its maintenance. Lot of experience, Knowledge and efforts are required to be put in.

Establishment of Zoological Park 

   It is essential to provide proper habitat and environment to the animals which should be as near to their natural habitat as possible for their healthy growth. The other thing which zoological park managers are concerned with is that the animals should be exhibited in near natural conditions. For this purpose the moated enclosures are preferred where animals and the visitors have no visual barrier in between.

Selection of Site. While selecting the site, it is very important to see that not only adequate area is taken for the present requirements but some area is reserved for future expansion also. It is essential that the site selected is close to the city and near a main road so that it is well within the reach of a common man and can be conveniently approached by bus or other means of transportation. It should also be kept in mind that the site is well wooded and well drained so that healthy habitat and environment can be provided to the animals.

  Layout. The layout and designing requires services of trained and experienced foresters and wildlife experts. An architect should be essentially associated with park for designing and translating deferent ideas and preparing detailed drawings for the same. The layout should be done on phylogenetic basis. A large guide map should be laid out near the entrance of the park.

 Animals for the Park. The most important component of a zoological park is the initial stock of animals. Before even the park is conceived, arrangement to procure animals or at least the commitment of various zoological parks and agencies who may have agreed to supply the animals should be obtained so that park does not starve  of animals.

Public Amenities. For visitors there should be adequate transport arrangements to and from the park ad well as in its interior. Special arrangements should be made for the handicapped persons and children. Canteens kiosks and restaurants should be laid out at convenient places to provide  refreshment on reasonable rates. In addition well maintained parks, lawns and toilets should be provided. A children park would be an added attraction. All the roads and parks should be adequately indicated by direction boards. A proper car park must be laid out. All closed days should be prominently written on hoardings..

Personnel Management. Since the park staff had to stay at site, their convenience and requirements must be taken care of. Schooling and health facilities should be easily available. Apart from this, incentives in kind and cash  other prerequisites like free housing, electricity, water etc.  should be provided to keep them satisfied in their job. A proper and imaginative promotion policy should be devised. Therefore, a human relations approach should be followed in management. It must be ensured that the staff posted is willing completely devoted and dedicated. Frequent transfers of the staff should be avoided to prevent dislocation and deterioration in the quality of work.