A recent report from the National Audit Office sheds light on concerning conditions at the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens,
revealing that 15 animals live alone in their enclosures, 35 female animals and 21 male animals are living without partners.
The tragic case of a female Japanese Macaque, who had lived alone for approximately 15 years at the Dehiwala Zoo, came to a sad end on 9 March 2022.
The post-mortem revealed that the animal’s depression contributed to the exacerbation of cancer cells.
The audit findings highlighted the severe impact of solitary living on the mental and physical well-being of animals. Ethical considerations within animal welfare strategies emphasise the necessity of providing an environment that allows for the natural behaviour of animals in the Zoo.
In response to these findings, the Zoo management said the groundwork has been laid to participate in various international animal exchange programmes.
The Zoo authorities expressed their commitment to addressing the issue, stating that they have already secured a partner for a black jaguar as part of their efforts to improve the well-being of the animals in their care.
(ceylontoday.lk)
