Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens Mysuru Zoo
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, also known as the Mysuru Zoo(Mysore zoo) is one of the best zoological gardens in India. Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar established this Zoo in the year 1892 for the Royals. Furthermore, after the attainment of freedom, it was handed over to the Department of Parks and Gardens of the State Govt. The Zoo’s meticulous planning is responsible for making it a special zoological garden. It tends to create a natural habitat for the animals in it. From Big to small cats, Aquatic to terrestrial birds, and Primates to reptiles, one Hundred and Sixty-Eight species find their place in this zoo. The world’s first caesarian section delivery performed on an elephant in Mysore zoo gave it global fame and recognition.
Located near the palace in Mysore, The Zoological Garden covers an area of 157 acres. It is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in India. It plays the role of an orphanage to the abandoned animals. Various exhibitions are regularly held here with an insect exhibition stealing the show. Following this, the Zoo carries forward certain Education Programmes such as Youth Club activities, Literary Competitions, and Summer Camp activities. The Karanji Lake was put under Zoo jurisdiction in 1976 and since has been a calm and serene place for boating
History of Mysore zoo
Property of 1892, the zoo has been under the control of different kings and governments. Naming it after its founder Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar Bahadur in 1909 was a way of extending thanks for his efforts in its creation. During his visits to European countries and Africa, the Maharaja used to bring animals which fascinated him. These included Giraffe, Antelopes, Bears, Chimpanzee, and Primates. It has till now established a niche for being a home to some of the rarest family members like American Bison, Californian Sea lions, Guanaco, Polar Bear, Secretary Bird, Kangaroo, Penguin, and White Elephant in the past.
Mysore zoo did not start big. At first, the zoo had only 10.9 acres of land to its use. Gradually with time, more land was allotted giving an opportunity for sheltering more animals. The Mysore Maharajas and the Government together groomed and nourished the gardens. The official control of the zoo was passed on from the Royalty to the Horticulture Department in 1948 and then to the Forest Department in 1972. In 2001, clubbing of all the zoos in the state under the Zoo Authority of Karnataka took place.
