Ahead of the Durga Puja festivities, Kolkata’s iconic Alipore Zoological Gardens has welcomed from Jharkhand’s Bhagwan Birsa Zoological Park in Ranchi.The new arrivals include two gharials, two ostriches and two Himalayan black bears, brought to Kolkata through an animal exchange programme approved by the Central Zoo Authority. Last year nine new animals from neighbouring Odisha’s Nandankanan Zoological Park, in a move that has delighted wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Zoo officials confirmed that the fresh arrivals include a pair of lions, a tigress, two Himalayan black bears and four mouse deer — the last being a species on the brink of extinction due to rampant poaching and shrinking habitats.

For now, the animals have been placed in specially designed night shelters within the zoo premises. Authorities say they will remain in quarantine for at least a week to acclimatise to their new environment before being introduced to the public.

“This is part of an exchange programme between the two zoos. The animals will only be released for public viewing once they have fully adjusted,” said a senior official at Alipore Zoo.

Rare and endangered

The arrival of the mouse deer, also known as chevrotain, has drawn particular attention. Often described as looking like large rodents with delicate limbs, the species has become rare in India. Illegal hunting and the destruction of forested habitats have drastically reduced their numbers.

“The mouse deer is a very shy, nocturnal animal. In the wild, they are almost impossible to spot. Having them in Alipore Zoo offers a chance to create awareness about their conservation,” said a Kolkata-based wildlife activist.

The Himalayan black bears and the tigress are also expected to attract large crowds once they are moved to their enclosures.

A tradition before Puja

This is not the first time the Alipore Zoo has brought in new residents ahead of Durga Puja, West Bengal’s biggest festival. Last year too, animals from other Indian states were relocated to Kolkata before the holiday season, boosting footfall at the zoo.

During Puja, thousands of families visit the zoo as part of their festive outings, making it one of the busiest public attractions in the city. “For many children, seeing a lion or a bear up close is unforgettable. These additions will make the zoo a bigger draw this year,” said a parent visiting the facility on Saturday.

Conservation and concerns

While the news has been welcomed, animal welfare groups have urged authorities to ensure that the new arrivals are not overexposed to crowds too quickly. “Acclimatisation is crucial, especially for animals brought from a different climate. Their health must come before visitor excitement,” said a representative of a local NGO.

For now, the animals remain out of public view, but the anticipation in Kolkata is growing. As one zoo official remarked, “These new guests are our pride. They symbolise not just attraction, but also the urgent need for conservation.”