Staff reporter
Guwahati: The Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden in Guwahati has intensified its wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts following a decline in survival rates among rescued animals. Since April last year, the zoo has rescued 544 birds, mammals, and reptiles, with 68% surviving. However, recent data for 2025 reveals a concerning drop, with only 56% of the 69 rescues this year making it through, while 30 animals have succumbed despite care.
In response, the zoo is expanding its infrastructure to enhance treatment and rehabilitation facilities. A new rescue and rehabilitation center is in development, alongside a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital set to be completed by year-end. “While our existing infrastructure has been crucial, the rising number of rescues necessitates improved facilities,” a zoo official stated. “The upcoming hospital will enhance treatment capabilities, and the new centre will provide a better recovery environment for rescued wildlife.”
Currently, the zoo operates two dedicated rescue teams comprising expert veterinarians and animal keepers. These teams respond to distress calls and conduct proactive rescues, bringing injured or stranded animals to the zoo for medical care. To ensure the safety of the zoo’s existing inhabitants, rescued animals first undergo quarantine before reintegration or release into the wild.
Collaboration with local forest divisions plays a key role in rehabilitating rescued animals, with locations like Garbhanga and Rani forests serving as safe release sites. The zoo has also urged the public to contribute by reporting distressed animals to the central control room at Aranya Bhawan, Panjabari, enabling timely interventions. Despite challenges, the zoo remains committed to improving wildlife rescue operations, emphasizing both immediate care and long-term rehabilitation to boost survival rates.
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