History of
Mysore Zoo
Mysore Zoo, established in 1892, is one of India’s oldest and most scenic zoos, known for its rich wildlife, conservation efforts, and lush, naturalistic enclosures.
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Mysore Zoo, established in 1892, is one of India’s oldest and most scenic zoos, known for its rich wildlife, conservation efforts, and lush, naturalistic enclosures.
(Foundation and Early Growth)
The initial phase of Mysore Zoo, marked by its founding, early land additions, official naming, and foundational landscaping by G.H. Krumbeigal.Zoo Established
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens was established by H.H. Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar Bahadur with an initial area of 10.9 acres.
Expansion and Ape Enclosures
An additional 6.22 acres were included. The first large ape enclosures in the country were built at Mysore Zoo.
Official Naming and Landscaping
The Zoo was officially named Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. Mr. G.H. Krumbeigal was engaged for landscaping.
(Administrative Shifts, Expansion, and Recognition)
This period saw the zoo's administration transition through different government departments, alongside significant land acquisition that expanded its area to 78 acres, and key recommendations for its role as a breeding center.Transfer to Horticulture Dept. & Expansion to 78 Acres
Administration was transferred to the Horticulture Department. An additional 50 acres (Kensington Gardens, Thandisadak) were acquired, increasing the total area to 78 acres.
Recommendation as National Breeding Centre
The Indian Board for Wildlife recommended designating Mysore Zoo as a National Breeding Centre.
Transfer to Forest Department
Administration of Mysore Zoo was transferred to the Forest Department.
(Major Acquisitions and Governance by ZAK)
Key developments include the acquisition of Karanji Lake, significantly expanding the zoo's area, and the transfer of administration to the newly formed Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK).Acquisition of Karanji Lake
Karanji Lake (77.02 acres) was acquired, increasing the zoo's total area to approximately 155 acres.
Transfer to Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK)
Administration of Mysore Zoo was transferred to the Zoo Authority of Karnataka, established in 1979.
(Modern Era: Community Engagement, Conservation, and Self-Sufficiency)
This era marks significant community engagement with the founding of Friends of Mysore Zoo, launch of key programs like the Youth Club and animal adoption, alongside ongoing conservation efforts, achievement of financial self-sufficiency, and recognition of its long history.Friends of Mysore Zoo (FMZ) Founded
Founded by Sally Walker to support the Mysore Zoo, driven by observations of visitor behavior and staff conduct, and to promote zoo reform.
Launch of Key Community and Conservation Initiatives
Key programs were initiated, including the highly successful Youth Club, the animal adoption scheme, and the establishment of the Koorghalli Rescue Centre.
Achieved Self-Sufficiency
The Zoo attained self-sufficiency in managing its affairs.
Contemporary Status & Legacy
Mysore Zoo, with over 128 years of history (as of c. 2020), is a modernized facility housing over 1450 specimens of 168 species, emphasizing conservation and education.