LAHORE, Oct 27: A committee has been formed for birds and animals` pairing at the Lahore Zoo because many birds and animals are single or have gone old and need urgent pairing for a healthy blood line.
According to officials, especially birds need pairing for many birds have either gone old or do not have proper cages. Mostly, the birds which have been confiscated are single.
The committee consists of six members and is headed by Abdul Qadeer Mahal, the Punjab Wildlife and Parks director. Zoo director Iqbal Khalid, Zoo Management Committee member Dr Riffat Suleman, Worldwide Fund for Nature conservation director Uzma Khan, Lahore Zoo Safari deputy director Riaz Ahmed and Zoo education officer Bushra Nisar Khan are members of the committee.
Officials said that birds and animals` pairing would not only be a source of comfort for them, but also add new exhibits and value to the zoo. The pairing will be carried out according to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
The committee will also be looking after animal welfare affairs like addition of new exhibits to the Lahore Zoo Safari.
The zoo has more than 600 birds of 73 species. Some macaws and blue crown pigeons have gone old and they are not fit for breeding. The zoo has two ostriches, but both are male. There are four emus: one male and three females. Similarly, sulphur crested cockatoo needs pairing, while cassowary is too old to pair.
German parrots Rosella and African grey parrots are also having pairing problem because of improper housing facilities. These parrots are kept in two cages in groups whereas they need to be paired in separate cages. The African grey parrot is a pricey bird, as it`s far more talkative compared to the local Alexandrine parrot.
Zoo also has Alexandrine parrots, but the pace of their breeding is not satisfactory. This talkative parrot has become endangered specie because of its massive netting.
Also, wallabies, chimpanzees, black footed grey languor and white and black colabus monkey need pairing.
