Bangladesh National Zoo has welcomed four new animals from South Africa – two Common Elands (one male and one female) and two male Wildebeests – to enhance species diversity and attract more visitors, officials said on Tuesday.
State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku formally released the animals at a ceremony at the zoo.
The state minister said the government is working to elevate the country’s zoos to international standards, with various initiatives to develop Bangladesh National Zoo as a modern institution combining conservation, research, education, and recreation.
“The addition of new animals is part of that initiative. The arrival of these new animals will not only provide visitors with a new experience but will also enrich the country’s biodiversity conservation activities,” he said.
Sultan Salauddin Tuku called on zoo authorities to take necessary steps to make the zoo more attractive by ensuring a cleaner, more modern, and visitor-friendly environment.
The Common Eland is one of the largest antelope species in Africa, while the Wildebeest is a well-known wildlife species inhabiting African grasslands. Their addition will further enrich the zoo’s animal collection and create new attractions for visitors.
Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Md. Shahjaman Khan, Zoo Director Mohammad Rafiqul Islam Talukder, and other senior officials were present at the event.
