CTG Zoo plans tiger-for-zebra swap

Chattogram Zoo is planning to acquire zebras through an animal exchange programme after being left with only one female zebra following the deaths of five others over the past several years.

Zoo authorities said a proposal has been sent through the Deputy Commissioner’s office to the relevant authorities, seeking zebras from another zoo or safari park in exchange for surplus tigers.

Officials said the zoo currently has 17 tigers, more than its available space can accommodate. Under the proposed plan, three pairs of zebras would be brought in exchange for one pair of tigers, subject to approval.

The six zebras were imported from South Africa in 2018. According to zoo officials, five later died due to injuries from fights and complications during childbirth, leaving only one female alive.

Deputy Curator Shahadat Hossain Shuvo said the zebra enclosure has since been expanded, making it suitable for additional animals. He expressed hope that the exchange would help increase the zebra population and provide a companion for the lone female zebra.