In a significant achievement for India, the Red Panda conservation programme at Darjeeling Zoo has been selected as one of the top three finalists for the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) conservation award. This recognition underscores India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of endangered species.
Overview of the Red Panda Programme
The Red Panda programme at Darjeeling Zoo, officially known as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, has been pivotal in the breeding and reintroduction of Red Pandas into their natural habitat. Located in the Eastern Himalayas, the zoo plays an essential role in the global conservation of this species, which is threatened by several factors including:
- Habitat Loss: Deforestation and urbanization reduce the natural habitats available to Red Pandas.
- Poaching: Illegal hunting poses a direct threat to their survival.
- Climate Change: Changes in climate patterns affect food availability and habitat conditions.
Significance of the WAZA Award
Being shortlisted for the WAZA award marks a major milestone for both Darjeeling Zoo and India’s conservation initiatives. This award recognizes outstanding conservation projects that positively impact species survival. The Red Panda programme has received accolades for its success in:
- Increasing the population of Red Pandas.
- Conducting ongoing efforts to ensure the species’ survival in the wild.
Future Prospects
The final winner of the WAZA award will be announced at the upcoming WAZA annual conference. This recognition is expected to draw global attention to Darjeeling Zoo’s conservation efforts and the challenges that endangered species, like the Red Panda, continue to face.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What award has the Darjeeling Zoo’s Red Panda conservation programme been selected for?
a) Padma Bhushan
b) WAZA conservation award
c) Green Globe Award
d) International Wildlife Conservation Award
Answer: b) WAZA conservation award
2. What is the official name of the Darjeeling Zoo?
a) Himalayan Wildlife Park
b) Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
c) Eastern Himalayan Wildlife Sanctuary
d) Red Panda Conservation Centre
Answer: b) Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
3. Which of the following is NOT a threat to Red Pandas mentioned in the text?
a) Habitat loss
b) Climate change
c) Overpopulation
d) Poaching
Answer: c) Overpopulation
4. What has been the impact of the Darjeeling Zoo’s Red Panda programme?
a) It has decreased the Red Panda population.
b) It has increased the Red Panda population and ensured their survival in the wild.
c) It has led to the extinction of Red Pandas.
d) It has focused solely on education and awareness.
Answer: b) It has increased the Red Panda population and ensured their survival in the wild.
5. Where will the final winner of the WAZA award be announced?
a) Darjeeling Zoo
b) Eastern Himalayas
c) WAZA annual conference
d) United Nations Wildlife Summit
Answer: c) WAZA annual conference