Delhi Zoo Seeks Companion for Lone African Elephant

New Delhi: The Delhi Zoo is actively exploring options to provide a companion for Shankar, their lone African elephant, who has been exhibiting increasingly aggressive behavior due to a prolonged "musth" condition.

Shankar, a 29-year-old male elephant brought to the National Zoological Park in 1998, has been experiencing elevated testosterone levels, leading to unpredictable and potentially dangerous behavior. The zoo has been working to manage his condition, including reinforcing his enclosure and providing veterinary care.

"We are in ongoing discussions with the forest department to find a suitable companion for Shankar," said a Delhi Zoo official. "The goal is to provide a more natural and socially enriching environment for him."

Shankar's aggressive behavior has posed challenges for the zoo, resulting in injuries to staff and damage to the enclosure. While his condition has improved with veterinary intervention, he continues to exhibit aggressive tendencies.

The zoo is committed to ensuring Shankar's well-being and safety. As part of their efforts, they are reinforcing the walls of his enclosure to allow for more freedom of movement without compromising his or others' safety.

With PTI inputs