Tue Apr 22 17:09:09 UTC 2025: ## Vandalur Zoo: A Century and a Half of Wildlife Conservation in Chennai
**Chennai, India (April 23, 2025)** — The Arignar Anna Zoological Park, better known as Vandalur Zoo, celebrated a significant milestone this week, marking its rich history of wildlife conservation and public engagement. Established in 1855 as a small menagerie on the grounds of the Government Central Museum, the zoo’s journey reflects the evolution of conservation efforts in India.
Initially housed in Egmore, the zoo’s growing population and associated concerns led to its relocation to People’s Park in 1861. However, by the 1970s, the urban setting proved unsuitable, necessitating a move to the Vandalur Reserve Forest. After extensive planning and construction, overseen by renowned experts and incorporating international best practices, the zoo opened in its current location on July 24, 1985, under the patronage of then Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran.
Today, spread across 1,490 acres, the Vandalur Zoo is one of the largest in South and Southeast Asia, housing over 2,300 animals from 172 species. It has expanded its mission beyond display, establishing a rescue and rehabilitation center in 2001 and recently restoring the Otteri Lake within the park to enhance biodiversity. The zoo’s commitment to conservation, education, and public engagement continues to make it a vital institution in Chennai and a testament to the ongoing efforts to protect India’s wildlife heritage.
First Piper 