We spent yesterday at the Nehru Zoological Park in Hyderabad. It is the largest zoo in India and we're lucky to have it in our city. It has over 300 acres of land and over 250 different species of birds and animals. The phrase 'Zoo Park' is quite accurate. There are many large areas to sit and relax in the shade. The animal enclosures were often separated from the walkways by large moats rather than by fences or plexiglass. It made a nicer viewing atmosphere and made it seem more 'natural' for the animals. Perhaps the best benefits of going to a zoo in India was the hot climate. I should specify that it was a benefit for viewing the animals rather than a personal benefit (I was dripping with sweat the whole day). Rarely have I been to a zoo where the animals were out and about as much as they were here. It was very hot yesterday with a light breeze. Almost every single animal was out of its cave and visible if not moving around. It was a great improvement from going to the Washington DC Zoo in the winter and wondering why all of these hot weather animals were inside their shelters.
Once again, we were an attraction as well. Crowds would form around us and stare at us, not only at the animals. Friendly Indians would approach us and attempt small talk in English. On more than one occasion Indian parents would push (sometimes literally) their young children to say hello to us. Sometimes the poor kids would squeak out a shy "Hello", other times they'd engage in polite and friendly conversation. You could see the pride in the parents' eyes.
We had a great day at the zoo and didn't have the energy for the safari through the lion habitat. We'll save that for next time. Another great part of the day was our driver, Prasad, who helped us immensely by buying tickets, jumping lines, and most importantly by carrying Sammy around the zoo. I think he carried her more than she walked around by herself and also more than anyone else carried her, which was a godsend on such a hot day.
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