Birds, reptiles top Delhi Zoo adoptions: FY23 sees record collections

Birds, reptiles and small mammals such as blackbuck have emerged as the most frequently adopted species under the Animal Adoption Scheme of the National Zoological Park , with officials noting that the scheme saw its highest proceeds in 2022–23.

Launched during the Covid-19 pandemic, the initiative gained momentum at a time when prolonged zoo closures and funding pressures prompted authorities to seek greater public participation in animal welfare . With limited travel and recreational options, individuals, institutions and corporate bodies embraced symbolic adoption as a way to support conservation and remain connected to wildlife.

In 2022–23, a total of 39 individuals adopted animals, largely birds and reptiles, raising ₹20.47 lakh, the highest amount collected under the scheme so far. In 2023–24, the number of adoptions dropped to six, but these involved larger animals and still generated about ₹18 lakh . In 2024–25, around 15 people adopted animals, contributing ₹13.17 lakh . In the current financial year, 2025–26, about 35 animals have been adopted by 17 individuals , raising nearly ₹2.3 lakh , with birds accounting for a majority of the adoptions.

Officials said birds continue to dominate adoptions due to their affordability and ease of symbolic association, while larger mammals tend to be adopted mainly by institutions and corporate entities. Over the years, apart from birds and reptiles, small mammals such as blackbuck and Indian hog deer have also seen steady interest , while carnivores like jackals and wolves despite higher costs have attracted limited but significant institutional participation.

Adoption fees vary widely by species. Smaller birds such as budgerigars can be adopted for ₹700 per year , while a common barn owl costs ₹9,000 annually . Among reptiles, an Indian star tortoise is priced at ₹3,500, while a marsh crocodile costs ₹30,000 . For mammals, blackbuck and Indian hog deer cost ₹12,000 each, while adoption fees for jackal and wolf are ₹1.2 lakh and ₹1.8 lakh respectively, reflecting higher upkeep requirements.

Zoo authorities clarified that animal adoption is a symbolic, sponsorship-based initiative and does not involve taking the animal home. Adopters financially support the care of a chosen animal for a fixed period, with contributions used for food, veterinary care, enclosure upkeep and conservation awareness. The animals remain entirely under the zoo’s care. In return, adopters r eceive benefits such as an adoption certificate or membership card, free entry to the zoo and limited, supervised engagement, including celebrating special occasions at the zoo.

The National Zoological Park currently houses around 1,100 animals across 92 species of birds, reptiles and mammals , maintained in enclosures designed to resemble their natural habitats. Officials said the scheme aims to increase public engagement, accountability and awareness about wildlife conservation.

At present, animals can be adopted for a year, with an option to renew. To widen participation and sustain public interest, the zoo is now revamping the scheme to allow adoptions for shorter durations, including a single day or a month, officials added.