Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jun 26: After remaining closed for nearly three months due to a bird flu scare, Goa’s only zoological park, located within the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, officially reopened to the public on Wednesday, bringing relief to wildlife enthusiasts and tourists.

The zoo was shut down on April 1, following the mysterious deaths of three civets and two jungle cats during the second week of March. Concerned by the sudden fatalities, the Forest Department quickly moved to isolate affected enclosures and restricted public entry as a precautionary measure.

Samples from the deceased animals were sent to the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal. Lab results later confirmed avian influenza (bird flu) as the cause of death in the two jungle cats. However, the reason behind the deaths of the three civets remains undetermined.

In a formal order issued on Wednesday, Jiss K Varkey, Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife and Eco-Tourism, North Division), stated:

“Consequent upon receipt of two consecutive negative test results for Avian Influenza from ICAR-NIHSAD Bhopal and in accordance with the guidelines of Central Zoo Authority, it is hereby ordered that the Bondla Zoological Park will be open for visitors with immediate effect.”

Officials confirmed that comprehensive disinfection protocols and surveillance were carried out over the past several weeks to ensure the safety of both animals and visitors.

Bondla Zoo, a popular attraction for families, school groups, and nature lovers, houses a variety of species including leopards, deer, reptiles, birds, and wild cats. Its closure had left a noticeable gap in Goa’s eco-tourism circuit.

With its reopening, the Forest Department has urged visitors to follow hygiene protocols and avoid feeding or disturbing the animals, ensuring continued safety in the wake of the recent outbreak.