Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park, situated in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India, is the largest zoological park in Asia, established in 1987. It spans an extensive area and is renowned for its diverse animal enclosures and a particularly notable, exceptionally heavy leopard named Balaji.
Key Facts
- ›Established on September 29, 1987.
- ›Covers an area of 5,532 acres.
- ›The largest zoological park in Asia.
- ›Features specialized enclosures like Mayuravani (peafowl) and Mrugavani (herbivores).
- ›Housed an exceptionally heavy leopard named Balaji, weighing up to 143 kg.
Mayuravani, Mrugavani, Vrukavihar
Balaji
About Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park is a significant zoological institution located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India. Established on September 29, 1987, it holds the distinction of being the largest zoological park in Asia, covering an expansive area of 5,532 acres.
Key Features and History
The park is designed with specialized enclosures to cater to different animal groups. Mayuravani is dedicated to the housing and display of peafowl, while Mrugavani serves as a habitat for herbivores. Vrukavihar is a multi-species enclosure that accommodates smaller carnivores alongside a variety of birds, including parakeets, mainas, ducks, geese, flamingos, swans, pelicans, and raptors.
A notable resident of Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park was an exceptionally heavy leopard named Balaji. Captured in 1996 at the age of 12, Balaji weighed between 108–113 kg, with his weight later reaching 139–143 kg, far exceeding the normal weight for leopards of its class. The park's management had reportedly been in contact with Guinness World Records authorities regarding its potential entry as the largest leopard. Balaji lived a long life for a leopard, passing away at the age of 27 on June 11, 2013, due to illness and old age.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park established?
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park was established on September 29, 1987. Its founding marked the beginning of a significant conservation and animal exhibition space in the region.
How large is Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park?
The park is exceptionally large, covering an area of 5,532 acres. This extensive size makes it the largest zoological park not only in India but also across the continent of Asia.
What are some of the notable features or exhibits at the park?
The park includes specialized enclosures such as Mayuravani, dedicated to peafowl, and Mrugavani, which houses herbivores. Vrukavihar serves as a habitat for smaller carnivores and a variety of birds, including waterfowl and raptors.
Was there any particularly famous animal at the zoo?
Yes, the zoo had a famous leopard named Balaji, known for its exceptional weight. Balaji weighed between 139–143 kg, significantly more than the typical weight for its species, and was being considered for entry into the Guinness Book of World Records.
How long did the leopard Balaji live?
Balaji, the exceptionally heavy leopard, lived to the notable age of 27 years. It passed away on June 11, 2013, due to illness and old age.
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