KATHMANDU: The government has initiated a process to classify zoos into three categories based on size, wildlife diversity, and service facilities.
The Ministry of Forests and Environment has begun the legal procedure by preparing a draft titled ‘Standards for the Establishment and Operation of Zoos, Wildlife Rescue Centres and Wildlife Hospitals, 2082’ and has invited public feedback within 15 days. The draft was prepared following a secretary-level decision taken on April 7.
The proposed standards aim to streamline wildlife conservation efforts, including genetic resource preservation, research, conservation education, breeding, rescue, rehabilitation, and treatment of animals.
According to the draft, zoos or wildlife parks with at least 50 hectares of area and a minimum of 100 wildlife species will be classified as large zoos or wildlife parks. Similarly, those with at least 20 hectares of area and at least 40 species will be categorized as medium zoos, while facilities with at least five hectares and at least 10 species will fall under small zoos.
The ministry has also proposed categorizing zoos based on management structure, distinguishing between those operated by government bodies and those managed by institutions or other legally established entities.
Under the draft, a zoo is defined as a facility where animals are managed and displayed for purposes such as conservation education, recreation, breeding, genetic preservation, and research, in line with international zoological practices.
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