Amidst the harsh winter, the Punjab Forest and Wildlife Preservation Department has implemented special measures at Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park in Chhatbir to ensure a comfortable environment for animals, birds, and reptiles. Room heaters and heat convectors have been installed in night shelters for carnivores like tigers, leopards, lions, and other wild cats. Special temperature control arrangements have been made for both old and young animals.
Temporary shelters or huts have been set up for herbivores using binding wire and ropes, equipped with waterproof arrangements in all enclosures. Herbivorous animals have been provided with paddy straw and wheat husk bedding for warmth. Bird cages have been covered with fibre cloths, jute mats, and polythene sheets to protect them from the cold and rain, with bedding materials like paddy straw, wheat husk, and rice bran for nesting.
The reptile house now features oil-fin heaters that maintain natural humidity levels. Enclosures for reptiles have been furnished with wheat husk, dry leaf foliage, and heavy blankets for comfort. UV lamps have been installed in the reptile section, while special aquarium water heaters with a circulation system are being used for turtles and tortoises.
