- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Sun, 11 Jan 2026 01:50 PM (IST)
- Source:Jagran News Network
The ongoing cold wave has significantly changed the atmosphere at Dehradun Zoo, with reptiles going into hibernation and mammals becoming the main draw for visitors. Snakes, pythons, and other reptiles housed in the zoo’s serpentarium are no longer visible to tourists as they have entered a dormant state due to falling temperatures.
According to Ranger-in-Charge Vinod Lingwal, all reptile species have gone into hibernation and are expected to remain inactive for around three months. They are likely to become active only after temperatures begin to rise in February. He said that due to comparatively milder cold conditions this year, reptiles entered hibernation slightly later than usual.
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The Snake House currently has snakes hidden under blankets and sawdust, with heaters installed in the enclosures to protect them from the cold and maintain a controlled temperature. Despite these arrangements, visitors are unable to see the reptiles, leading many to return disappointed. The Dehradun Zoo’s serpentarium houses 11 species, including venomous reptiles such as the King Cobra, Indian Cobra and Russell’s Viper, all of which are cold-blooded animals.
With reptiles out of sight, tigers and leopards have become the main attraction for zoo visitors. However, the impact of the cold is evident on them as well, with tigers often seen basking in the sun throughout the day. Zoo veterinarian Dr Pradeep Mishra said the diet of the Bengal Tiger has been modified for the winter season. The tiger is being fed around 9 kg of meat daily, along with jaggery, raw eggs, honey and multivitamin supplements to boost immunity.
Special arrangements have also been made for other animals. Deer are being given boiled water mixed with jaggery, carom seeds and asafoetida to help them cope with the cold. Animals that can consume eggs are being fed them twice a day. Paddy straw has been placed on the roofs of enclosures, blankets have been spread on the floors, and thermometers have been installed to monitor temperatures.
The zoo has also introduced a special winter diet for its macaws, which includes dry fruits such as walnuts and cashews. Native to South American forests, the colourful macaws become active with the first rays of the morning sun and add vibrancy to the zoo with their loud calls.
The Snake House at Dehradun Zoo houses species such as the Burmese Python, Russell’s Viper, King Cobra, Indian Cobra, Sand Boa, Reticulated Python, Rock Python, Tree Snake, Rat Snake, Ball Python and Iguana.