Birsa Zoo Welcomes New Inhabitants in Major Animal Exchange
Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park in Ranchi has received Asiatic lions and crocodiles from the Nandanvan Zoo, Naya Raipur, as part of an animal exchange program. The new lion, Abhay, and lioness, Shabri, join the park following the loss of several big cats, meeting growing visitor demand.

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- India
Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park, commonly called Birsa Zoo, in Ranchi, has expanded its animal roster with the arrival of a pair of Asiatic lions and crocodiles. This update came through a statement on Tuesday.
The new residents arrived from Nandanvan Zoo and Safari in Naya Raipur, under an animal exchange initiative. The 14-year-old lion and four-year-old lioness have been named Abhay and Shabri, respectively, while the crocodiles also share the same age, the statement noted.
This addition is significant, following the recent deaths of two Asiatic lions and one hybrid lioness. In response to increasing visitor demand, efforts to enrich the park's attractions have been met with success, as confirmed by the presence of Forest Secretary Aboobacker Siddique at the animals' enclosure unveiling.
(With inputs from agencies.)