<p class="15"><b><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';mso-ansi-font-weight:bold;font-size:12.0000pt;">GANGTOK,:</span></b><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> Nestled in the serene landscapes of Eastern Himalayas, the Himalayan Zoological Park in Bulbulay, Gangtok is at the forefront of conservation efforts aimed at protecting some of the region's most endangered species. The park houses a variety of species including the Red Panda, Blue Sheep, Thar and bears. Among these, the Himalayan Black Bear holds special significance, not only due to its frequent sightings in the wilds of Sikkim but also because of the alarming decline in its population over the years. </span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> Authorities at the zoo says the conservation at the Himalayan Zoological Park is “not just about protecting animals; it’s about ensuring their survival through meticulously planned breeding programs”. These efforts are spearheaded by a dedicated team of zoologists, veterinarians, and support staff who work tirelessly to create a safe and nurturing environment for the animals. Their work has borne fruit, as evidenced by a recent and remarkable event in the park. </span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> A pair of Himalayan Black Bears, affectionately named “Kaley” and “Kali” by the park staff, have given birth to three healthy cubs. One cub was born last year, and two cubs were born this year. This event is particularly noteworthy because it occurred within the usual cycle of hibernation in captivity which suggests that the bears feel exceptionally comfortable and secure in their surroundings.</span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> <font face="Bookman Old Style">“The birth of these cubs when the bears are going through hibernation cycle in captivity is a testament to the quality of care and the stable environment we’ve provided,” said Sangay Gyatso, Director of the Himalayan Zoological Park. “Typically, the mating season begins in October, with the cubs being born in February during the mother’s hibernation period. However, in this case, the cubs were born in a traditional natural cycle in captivity which is a significant milestone for us.” </font></span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> The park’s success in breeding and conserving these bears is a reflection of the larger efforts being undertaken to safeguard endangered species across the Himalayan region. The Himalayan Black Bear, in particular, has seen its numbers dwindle due to habitat loss, poaching, and other threats. The birth of these cubs is a beacon of hope in the ongoing struggle to preserve this species for future generations. </span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> To further support these efforts, the Himalayan Zoological Park has launched the “My Child From Wild” program, which encourages individuals to adopt animals from the zoo for a specified period. This initiative is designed to involve the community directly in conservation efforts, making the work of the zoo more transparent and accessible to the public. By adopting an animal, people can contribute to its care and wellbeing, thereby playing a vital role in the preservation of endangered species. </span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;">“We want to bring the public closer to the work we’re doing here,” Gyatso explained. “Programs like ‘My Child From Wild’ not only help in the financial running of the zoo but also create a personal connection between the community and the animals. When people are directly involved, they become more aware of the challenges these species face, and they’re more likely to support conservation efforts.” </span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> The birth of the three bear cubs has sparked excitement among both the staff and the local community, symbolizing a step forward in the zoo's mission to protect and nurture the wildlife of the Himalayas. The zoo's management is optimistic that such milestones will inspire more people to take an active interest in conservation, particularly as Sikkim and the surrounding Himalayan region face increasing environmental pressures.</span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> In addition to raising awareness, the involvement of the public through programs like “My Child From Wild” is crucial for the zoo’s sustainability. It allows for the continued funding of conservation projects and ensures that the zoo can maintain the high standards of care necessary for the wellbeing of its inhabitants. “Pokchee” the Red Panda from the zoo has recently been adopted by actress Shyama Shree Sherpa. </span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> Gyatso emphasized the importance of these collective efforts. He stated, “Conservation is not something we can achieve alone. It requires the support and participation of the entire community. We are hopeful that with more people joining us, we can make a significant difference in the lives of these animals and secure a future where they can thrive.”</span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="15"><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"> The Himalayan Zoological Park invites everyone to learn more about their work and consider becoming part of their conservation journey. For more information or to participate in the “My Child From Wild” program, the zoo authorities can be contacted directly at 7864941547. “The future of Sikkim’s wildlife depends on collective action, and every contribution helps in safeguarding these majestic creatures for generations to come,” said animal rights activist Sagar Singh. </span><span style="mso-spacerun:'yes';font-family:'Bookman Old Style';mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:12.0000pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
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