Panaji: In a rare development, six wild dog pups were born inside an enclosure at the state’s only zoo in the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. “Unlike planned animal exchanges or managed breeding programmes, this is a case of in-situ adaptation wherein wild animals make independent choices within a protected landscape,” a senior zoo official said.The story goes back nearly two years, when a pack of wild dogs roaming the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary strayed too close to the zoo’s empty tiger enclosure while chasing wild deer. In the confusion of the hunt, a pair crossed into the enclosure and never left. No capture operation followed, and no relocation attempt was made by the zoo authorities either, who happily fed and cared for them. The animals adapted, slowly growing accustomed to their surroundings.“Nothing was forced. They entered on their own and stayed on their own,” the official said.Over time, the pair settled into the enclosure, exhibiting natural behaviour and eventually breeding. The six pups are now a month old. True to their species’ instincts, the pair remained fiercely protective, keeping the pups hidden deep inside their den.Caretakers say sightings were minimal. The mother is seen briefly, collecting meat and disappearing back into the den, while the male stands guard outside, motionless and alert. Any hint of human presence is enough for the pair to retreat, leaving no visible sign of the pups behind.“Even counting them was difficult,” the officials said.For now, the pups are staying out of sight, which the zoo says is normal. Wild dog cubs typically emerge only after a month to six weeks, often during quieter hours or at night. Zoo authorities are hopeful that in the coming weeks, the pups will begin venturing out.
