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Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park

Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, also known as Chhatbir Zoo, is a significant zoological park located near Zirakpur, India. Established in the 1970s, it is recognized as the largest zoo in Punjab and plays a role in showcasing a diverse collection of wildlife.

Key Facts

  • Established in the 1970s, formally named Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park in 1977.
  • Located near Zirakpur, India, approximately 20 km from Chandigarh.
  • Home to 369 mammals, 400 birds, and 20 reptiles.
  • Features India's longest walk-in aviary, measuring 300 meters long.
  • The aviary showcases 32 species of indigenous and exotic birds across five themed sections.
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park
Founding Year
1970
Number Of Animals
789
Notable Exhibits

India's Longest Walk-In Aviary

Location City
Zirakpur
Notable Animals

Asian Palm Civet, Asiatic Lion, Bengal Tiger, Gharial, Indian Elephant, Jaguar, Lion-Tailed Macaque

About Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park

Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park: A Wildlife Haven

Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, more commonly referred to as Chhatbir Zoo, is a significant zoological park located near Zirakpur in India. Established in the 1970s, it has grown to become the largest zoo in Punjab. Situated approximately 20 kilometers from Chandigarh on the Chandigarh-Zirakpur-Patiala route, the park was officially named in honor of the then governor of Punjab, Mahendra Chaudhary, in 1977.

Diverse Collection and Unique Features

The zoo is home to a substantial collection of wildlife, comprising 369 mammals, 400 birds, and 20 reptiles. Its animal population includes a variety of species, some of which were brought from the Guwahati Zoo in Assam. A particularly noteworthy feature of Chhatbir Zoo is India's longest walk-in aviary, stretching 300 meters in length. This expansive enclosure showcases 32 different species of indigenous and exotic birds, thoughtfully arranged within five distinct thematic sections: Terrestrial, Rock & Duck, Woodland, Japanese Trail, and Rainforest.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park commonly known as?

Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park is also commonly known as Chhatbir Zoo. This informal name is widely used when referring to the zoological park.

Where is Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park located?

The zoo is situated close to Zirakpur, India, and lies on the Chandigarh-Zirakpur-Patiala route. It is approximately 20 kilometers away from Chandigarh.

When was Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park established?

The zoo was constructed in the 1970s. It was formally christened as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park in 1977.

What are the notable features of Chhatbir Zoo?

A key highlight is India's longest walk-in aviary, which is 300 meters long and displays 32 species of birds. The aviary is designed with five distinct themes, including Terrestrial, Rock & Duck, Woodland, Japanese Trail, and Rainforest.

What types of animals can be found at Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park?

The zoo houses a large variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Specifically, it is home to 369 mammals, 400 birds, and 20 reptiles, including species like the Asiatic lion, Bengal tiger, and gharial.