New Delhi, Sept. 1 -- The Delhi Zoo's lone Egyptian vulture Jatayu, which has spent more than two decades without a mate, will finally have company, with authorities in talks with two zoos in other states to find a suitable pairing for the ageing bird.
Jatayu was rescued after it migrated to Delhi and was brought to the National Zoological Park more than 20 years ago. Since then, it has been the only Egyptian vulture housed there as other inmates died due to age and health related issues.
A Delhi Zoo official told PTI that discussions are currently underway with two zoos for a possible pairing for Jatayu. However, the process is still in a preliminary stage and the zoo has not disclosed the names of the institutions being considered for the proposed arrangement.
"Talks are on with two zoos for the pairing," he said, adding that they would be able to share details only after the proposed transfer or exchange is formally worked out.
He said that the zoo is also looking at conservation facilities in Pinjore, Haryana, where officials are scheduled to visit on September 6 to understand the ongoing vulture breeding and conservation programme.
The vulture breeding and conservation centre at Pinjore has been working on conservation breeding of critically endangered Gyps vultures and has also undertaken programmes to release captive-bred birds into the wild. The facility is jointly run by the Haryana Forest Department and the Bombay Natural History Society.
Egyptian vultures generally begin breeding at around four to five years of age and form long-term pair bonds. They typically lay one egg per breeding season, with both parents involved in incubation and raising the chick.
The species can live for around 25 years in the wild and potentially longer in captivity, allowing individuals to remain reproductively active for several years.
The official said birds and other animals cannot simply be brought to the zoo from such facilities and are acquired through established mechanisms such as animal exchange programmes or gifts. Any vulture brought to Delhi would therefore have to come through one of these approved arrangements
Jatayu is not the only one. The National Zoological Park is seeking partners for 16 species represented either by lone individuals or same-sex groups, with some animals having remained without mates for several years, as part of efforts to boost breeding and introduce fresh bloodlines.
Delhi Zoo is seeking mates for several lone animals, including ostriches, rhea, rhino and barn owl, while planning exchanges to add species and strengthen genetic diversity.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.