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Vizag Zoo Welcomes Black Panther After 40 Years, Adopted by Toddler

The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam has unveiled a female black panther to the public for the first time in four decades. The four-year-old panther, named Reshma, was acquired from the Assam State Zoo through an animal exchange program. In a unique philanthropic act, the panther has been adopted by 21-month-old Nihira Malineni, the zoo's youngest-ever adopter, whose family donated ₹1.25 lakh for its annual care. The panther was released into its enclosure by senior forest officials after completing its mandatory quarantine period.

Key Points: Black Panther Returns to Vizag Zoo After 40-Year Hiatus

  • First display in 40 years
  • Adopted by 21-month-old Nihira Malineni
  • Acquired via animal exchange with Assam
  • ₹1.25 lakh donation for care
  • Successfully completed quarantine
2 min read

Shadow of forest returns: Vizag Zoo unveils Black Panther after 4-decade hiatus

A rare black panther is now on display at Visakhapatnam's Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, adopted by a 21-month-old under the zoo's scheme.

"The shadow of the forest is now officially out of quarantine. - Zoo Officials"

Visakhapatnam, April 22

In a historic moment for wildlife enthusiasts in Andhra Pradesh, the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park officially released a female Black Panther into its public enclosure on Tuesday, marking the first time in 40 years that the rare melanistic leopard has been on display at the Vizag Zoo.

The rare feline's arrival has sparked significant interest among wildlife enthusiasts and tourists alike. She was unveiled and released into her enclosure on Tuesday by Dr PV Chalapathi Rao, the State Forest Department's Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF).

The release ceremony was highlighted by a unique act of philanthropy. The Black Panther has been officially adopted by Nihira Malineni, who, at just 21 months old, has become the zoo's youngest-ever animal adopter.

A cheque of ₹1.25 lakh was donated by her family to cover the panther's care and maintenance from April 21, 2026, to April 20, 2027, under the IGZP Animal Adoption Scheme.

Visakhapatnam Zoo Park Curator Mangamma stated that the four-year-old Black Panther named Reshma was brought from Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden under the animal exchange program The feline was moved to the viewing enclosure following the successful completion of its mandatory quarantine period.

The Black Panther's return was made possible through a strategic Animal Exchange Programme with the Assam State Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden in Guwahati.

"We brought Black Panther from Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden under the animal exchange program... Yesterday, the animal was released into its enclosure. The name of the Black Panther is Reshma, and she is around four years old... A 21-month-old Nihira has adopted the Black Panther for one year. From yesterday onwards, for one year, they'll pay for its well-being for food and medication."

"After the completion of the quarantine period, it was kept for public display. Yesterday, our Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Vishnu Mangalagiri PV Chalapathi Rao sir, released the animal into its enclosure," added Mangamma.

With the "shadow of the forest" now officially out of quarantine, visitors to the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park can once again witness the powerful presence of the Black Panther.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Wonderful initiative. The animal exchange program between states is a great way to promote biodiversity. Hope Reshma settles in well in her new home. The adoption scheme is also a brilliant way to involve the community in conservation.
R
Rohit P
While it's great to have a new attraction, I hope the zoo's primary focus remains on the animal's welfare and not just on tourism revenue. The enclosure must be spacious and enriching for a creature like this. Proper care is paramount.
P
Priyanka N
What a beautiful gesture by little Nihira's family! Teaching children about conservation from such a young age is the way forward. ₹1.25 lakh is a significant contribution. More power to them! 👏
M
Michael C
The black panther is such a majestic and elusive animal. It's good to see cooperation between Assam and Andhra Pradesh zoos. These exchange programs are vital for genetic diversity and education. Planning a trip to Vizag soon!
K
Kavya N
"Shadow of the forest" is such a poetic and fitting name. Hope the zoo authorities also use this opportunity to educate visitors about the importance of protecting leopards and their natural habitats in our forests, which are under constant threat.

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