Bannerghatta National Park in Bengaluru has recently welcomed a delightful addition to its family – a female giraffe named Shivani. Born to Bharat and Babli, Shivani, at the age of 1 year and 8 months, made the journey from Mysore to the Bannerghatta Biological Park in a specially arranged vehicle. After a three-and-a-half-hour trip, Shivani finally arrived at her new home, where she now roams freely among the park’s lush surroundings. However, Shivani’s arrival signifies more than just a picturesque sight; it marks a heartfelt quest for companionship, particularly for Gauri, the park’s sole giraffe resident.
Gauri, who has been residing in Bannerghatta Biological Park since her transfer from Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens in 2018, has been living a solitary life for the past three to four years. The impact of loneliness on Gauri has been evident, with visible signs of paleness and a decline in her appetite. Concerns over Gauri’s well-being prompted the park administration to embark on a mission to find her a suitable companion.
After years of searching, the park administration’s efforts bore fruit with the arrival of Shivani from Mysore. However, introducing Shivani to Gauri requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition. To facilitate their adjustment, a barricade-like structure has been erected, allowing the giraffes to familiarise themselves with each other without any potential conflicts. Once Gauri and Shivani have adapted to one another, the barricade will be removed, granting them the freedom to roam together within the park’s confines.
The initiative to find a companion for Gauri isn’t a novel one. In 2020, she was introduced to a male giraffe named Yadunandan in an attempt to alleviate her loneliness. However, tragedy struck when Yadunandan accidentally became trapped in the treatment area and succumbed to his injuries, leaving Gauri once again without a companion.
The arrival of Shivani offers renewed hope for Gauri to find companionship and happiness in her new friend. Beyond being a mere addition to the park’s wildlife, Shivani represents the park’s commitment to the well-being and social enrichment of its animal residents. With Shivani’s presence, Bannerghatta National Park takes another step forward in its mission to provide a nurturing and fulfilling environment for its cherished inhabitants.
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