Jackals Missing from Delhi Zoo: Management Still Unaware of Exact Number

New Delhi: The recent escape of jackals from their enclosure at Delhi Zoo continues to pose a significant challenge for zoo authorities. Officials admit that the exact number of missing jackals remains uncertain, raising concerns about growing lapses in wildlife management and safety protocols.

Partial Return but Uncertainty Persists
On Monday, one more jackal returned to its enclosure, bringing the total number of jackals back to two. However, the total count of jackals that ventured into the zoo’s forested areas is still unknown. Despite CCTV monitoring, authorities have been unable to determine precisely when the jackals escaped or how many were involved.

No Signs in Visitor Areas
Earlier statements from the zoo estimated that three to four jackals had escaped. With two returning, the remaining missing jackals are believed to be one or two. Zoo Director Dr. Sanjeet Kumar confirmed that searches continue with the help of staff, CCTV footage, traps, and specialized teams. Fortunately, no signs of jackals have been found in visitor areas, ensuring public safety.

Management Struggles with Counting
A zoo official revealed that the number of escaped jackals is based purely on estimates. “Not knowing the exact count highlights growing negligence in wildlife conservation here,” he said. The zoo currently has a vacant ranger post, a key position responsible for direct wildlife supervision. In the absence of a ranger, the curator, Dr. Manoj Kumar, has temporarily taken over these duties.

Escape Caused by Broken Enclosure
The escape reportedly occurred due to a damaged iron mesh in enclosure beat number 15. Although zoo protocols require daily inspections of 20 enclosures, these have not been consistently followed for years. Most responsibilities have been left to animal keepers, many of whom are daily-wage laborers handling over 80% of the workload. Lack of regular monitoring and updates on animal counts contributed to the current situation.

Authorities continue the search for the remaining jackals and have emphasized stricter monitoring and maintenance of enclosures to prevent future escapes.