Jackals Roam Free in Delhi Zoo Premises
Several jackals managed to escape their enclosure at the National Zoological Park in Delhi, prompting an intensive search operation and raising serious questions about management protocols at the facility. The incident, which came to light on Saturday, November 23, 2025, has led zoo authorities to launch an internal investigation while teams work to locate and secure the remaining animals.
Search Operation and Recovery Efforts
According to official statements released on Sunday, November 24, 2025, one of the escaped jackals was successfully guided back to the holding area during the morning hours. However, two to three animals remain outside their designated enclosure, with officials noting that one or two might be "free-ranging" within the zoo premises.
The escape was discovered when three to four jackals were spotted near the bushy forest area of the off-display jackal holding zone near Azimganj Sarai in Beat No. 10. Zoo administration immediately deployed trap cages and specialized teams to safely recover the animals. The tranquilization team has been placed on standby, ready to intervene if the situation demands such measures.
Systemic Failures and Previous Incidents
A senior zoo official did not mince words when describing the incident, stating clearly that "there was serious mismanagement" that allowed the jackals to escape through a small gap in the rear fencing of their enclosure. This isn't the first such incident at the Delhi zoo facility located on Mathura Road in South Delhi.
Earlier this year, approximately 12 barking deer escaped from their enclosure, with many remaining unaccounted for despite recovery efforts. In September, a Brahminy kite also managed to escape from its cage, indicating a pattern of security lapses at the facility.
The zoo's annual inventory records reveal that as of March 21, the facility housed nine jackals total—four males, two females, and three unsexed individuals. Officials have confirmed that the current number in the holding area matches inventory records, suggesting the escaped animals represent only part of the population.
Enhanced Security and Ongoing Monitoring
Authorities have assured the public that the jackals are not in visitor movement areas, minimizing immediate risk to zoo patrons. Comprehensive monitoring through both staff patrols and CCTV surveillance continues around the clock as the search operation progresses.
The Joint Director of National Zoological Park has been directed to conduct a thorough enquiry into the matter and submit a detailed report. Meanwhile, the escaped jackals enjoy the highest level of legal protection under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022, which mandates stringent conservation measures for protected species in India.
