Plea filed in US against import of penguins

A US-based nature conservationist has recently launched an online campaign, appealing people to protest against the BMC and the state government’s plan of getting six Humboldt penguins at Byculla zoo.

The petition, being largely circulated by local conservationists, raised questions on the ability of drought-hit state, struggling from heat waves to be able to maintain the IUCN protected species. The total population of these penguins dropped to 3,300 to 12,000 from over 1 million in the mid-19th century.

The petition by nature lover Neetu Jindal, states that since the population of the penguins are declining over several years due to human interference with habitat loss and over-fishing, they are awarded safety under several international wildlife protection laws.

“The species is under threat in their own habitat and on the other hand, India is trying to bring six of these Humboldt Penguins by building an artificial habitat. If captivated, these social animals will be torn apart from their colonies. Aquariums and exhibits can never replicate the natural habitat of an animal,” said Ms Jindal in her petition.

She further added that the artificial habitat of forced temperatures, painted rocks, imitation water bodies, synthetic enclosures, sharp lighting and commotion created by hundreds of visitors will cause distress to the penguins. “Without their wild habitat, natural light and fresh air, declining health and mental issues that is not uncommon in captive animals and birds, will start to affect these penguins. Keeping any animal in such conditions is downright cruel, much less a creature that is already on the brink of endangerment,” added Ms Jindal.

The petition also points out the previous cases where The Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Byculla Zoo were found to be in continues need of funds and we not able to take care of the current stock of captive animals.

“In drought-hit Maharashtra, creating an environment for animals that need numerous gallons of water is nothing but wasteful. Especially when farmers in Maharashtra are committing suicide in thousands due to the lack for water for crops. This money could be given to them for recuperation,” added another conservationist from Mumbai, attached with forest department, on the condition of anonymity.

The petition urges people to sign for the cause and tweet to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief minister Devendra Fadnavis to not import the penguins to the state.