Bengaluru, 26 June

Forest Minister Eshwara Khandre inaugurated South India’s first and largest leopard safari, in Bannerghatta Biological Park, on Tuesday.

The new safari which features 49 acres of enclosure set in a natural, semi-deciduous forest, adds to its array of wildlife attractions.  The project adhering to Central Zoo Authority guidelines costs around Rs. 4.5 crore.

The safari is open to the public on all days except Tuesdays. While the general entry fees remain unchanged, additional safari fees will be applicable.

Visitors can choose between a special AC bus and a regular bus for the safari. For adults the bus ticket cost Rs 500 for an AC buss and Rs 300 for a regular bus. For children aged 6 to 12 the ticket cost is Rs 130 and for senior citizens the cost is Rs 260.

Khandre emphasised the importance of educating visitors on the ecological significance of various tree species, urging them to plant saplings at home that are given at the park for discounted rates.

Speaking to Salar News, AV Surya Sen, Executive Director of BBP, said “We currently have 14 leopards that were rescued from the agricultural lands, and raised from when they were cubs. Out of these eight of them have been released in the safari enclosures. The rest of them have yet to be introduced as they are still young to be in and around the safari areas.”

In addition to the leopard safari, BBP announced several new developments like the skywalk that will connect the zoo to the butterfly park, five new animal enclosures for emus and rheas, hunting cheetahs, hamadryas and olive baboons, and Indian grey wolves, and a new baby elephant feeding centre. -Salar News