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Question

Which one of the following is the highest altitude zoo in the world?

This question was previously asked in
CDS I 2016 English Previous Year Paper (14-Feb-2016)
The correct answer is

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Exploring the World's Highest Altitude Zoos

The question asks to identify the highest altitude zoo in the world among the given options. Altitude plays a significant role in the type of animals that can be housed in a zoo and the conservation efforts required. Zoos located at high altitudes often focus on species adapted to mountainous environments.

Analyzing the Options for Highest Altitude Zoo

Let's look at the options provided:

  • Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA. It is known for its high elevation among North American zoos, but is not considered the world's highest.
  • Pandit G. B. Pant High Altitude Zoo: Located in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India. This zoo is situated at a considerable altitude and is focused on high-altitude species.
  • Himalayan Zoological Park: This is a general term and could refer to various parks in the Himalayan region. It is not specific enough to identify a single zoo as the highest.
  • Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Located in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. This zoo is specifically known for its focus on conservation breeding programs for endangered Himalayan species.

Identifying the Highest Altitude Zoo: Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Among the given options, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling is widely recognized and often cited as the highest altitude zoo in the world. It is situated at an average altitude of 2,073 meters (6,800 feet).

This zoo plays a crucial role in the conservation of rare Himalayan fauna, including the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, and Himalayan Black Bear. Its location at a high altitude provides a suitable environment for these species.

While other zoos like the Pandit G. B. Pant High Altitude Zoo are also at high elevations, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park holds the distinction of being the highest among major, recognized zoos involved in conservation efforts at such altitudes.

Comparison of Potential High Altitude Zoos (Approximate Altitudes)
Zoo Location Approximate Altitude
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park Darjeeling, India ~2,073 m (6,800 ft)
Pandit G. B. Pant High Altitude Zoo Nainital, India ~2,100 m (6,890 ft) - Note: Altitude of Nainital town. Zoo altitude is within this range. Some sources cite similar or slightly lower average altitudes for the zoo itself compared to Padmaja Naidu. Recognition as "highest" often refers to established, well-known conservation zoos.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Colorado Springs, USA ~2,040 m (6,693 ft)

Based on general recognition and historical context in such questions, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the intended answer for the highest altitude zoo.

Revision Table: Key Facts about High Altitude Zoos

Concept Description
High Altitude Zoo A zoo located at a significant elevation above sea level, often specializing in species adapted to mountain or high-altitude environments.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park Located in Darjeeling, India; famous for Red Panda and Snow Leopard breeding programs; often cited as the world's highest zoo.
Conservation Breeding Programs run by zoos to breed endangered species in captivity with the aim of reintroducing them to the wild or maintaining a healthy population.

Additional Information: Significance of High Altitude Locations for Specific Species

Locating zoos at high altitudes is particularly beneficial for animals that naturally inhabit cold, mountainous regions. These environments often have lower temperatures, specific vegetation, and air pressure that these species are adapted to. Conservation efforts for animals like Snow Leopards, Red Pandas, and certain types of mountain ungulates are significantly aided by housing them in zoos situated in similar climatic conditions to their natural habitats. This helps in their breeding, health, and overall well-being in captivity, contributing to their survival.

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