The Madhya Pradesh forest department on Friday brought four new hybrid lions from Assam to Van Vihar, which was left with only three lions after the death of an aged lion a few months back.
Located near the Chief Minister’s residence, Van Vihar is the smallest national park spread in an area of 450 hectares and is home to several wild animals, including tigers and lions.
“These lions will take the number of lions to seven. We have to make them first get accustomed to Bhopal climate as it is quite hot here compared to Assam. These lions will be declared a part of the Van Vihar family soon after they feel at home here,” said Smita Rajora, director, Van Vihar.
A 13-member team comprising Van Vihar doctor Atul Gupta and deputy director P.K. Ghai brought the lions from Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden to the national park. All the four lions were brought in a specially-designed vehicle, undertaking a 72-hour journey.
The lions in the age bracket of 10 to 12 years are being fed special food and kept in continuous observation under a special team of veterinary doctors. “Lions are not new to us. We understand their needs and other habitat-related requirements,” said Ghai.
Among the four lions, twins Varu and Vrinda were born in 2007, whereas Montu was born in 2005 and Laba in 2004. The lions will share the national park with other inhabitants such as chital, sambhar, blue bull, tiger, leopard, hyena, sloth bear and crocodiles.
