After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the highly anticipated lion safari at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP), Vandalur, is scheduled to reopen at the end of May. The zoo, which has already witnessed an influx of visitors since April, has gradually reopened its various facilities such as the butterfly park, children`s park, aquarium, and the nocturnal animal house.
The lion safari, however, has been the last attraction to be resumed as the zoo had experienced the loss of a few lions during the pandemic. To replenish their lion population, the AAZP recently acquired two lions through animal exchange programs, with the latest addition arriving from the Bannerghatta Biological Park on April 22. Currently, there are six lions ready for the safari and three housed within the enclosure.
Despite the availability of lions, the safari will not commence immediately due to pending transport arrangements. The zoo authorities are diligently working on finalizing the necessary preparations and anticipate a tentative start date for the safari by the end of this month. Visitors can look forward to experiencing the thrill of observing these majestic creatures up close as the summer vacation season draws to a close.
With the forthcoming reopening of the lion safari, the AAZP aims to provide an engaging and educational experience for visitors while ensuring the well-being and conservation of these magnificent animals.