Dhole Conservation Breeding Programme

Mains Syllabus: GSIII - Conservation

Why in news?

Recently, the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park announced the successful birth of 14 dhole puppies, showcased a thriving breeding effort for this endangered species.

What is the dhole conservation breeding programme?

• Dhole conservation breeding programme – It is a captive breeding and release program focused on increasing the population of the Asiatic Wild Dog (dhole).
• It aims to mitigate threats like inbreeding and habitat loss, and to improve understanding of the species for better conservation efforts.
• The first dedicated conservation breeding facility for dholes in India was established in 2014.
• Location – Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• Implemented by – Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) and supported by Central Zoo Authority (CZA).
• Research and technical support - Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun and LACONES, Hyderabad
• Partner zoos for genetic exchange:
  • Nehru Zoological Park (Hyderabad)
  • Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur)
  • Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (Tirupati)
• Main objectives of the programme
  • Breed endangered dholes in captivity
  • Maintain a healthy gene pool
  • Understand dhole behaviour and social dynamics
  • Generate data for scientific research
  • Support potential future reintroductions into protected habitats

What is the methodology involved in breeding?

• Careful pair selection – Potential breeding pairs are identified based on health, age, and compatibility.
• Gradual introduction – Once deemed compatible, pairs are moved into a shared enclosure (day kraal) for natural mating over 3–5 days.
• Simulated natural habitat – Breeding areas are designed to mimic wild habitats with trees, dens, water pools, and space for natural behaviours.
• Low-interference monitoring – Pregnant females and new mothers are left undisturbed and caretakers observe from a distance to minimize stress.
• Monitoring and documentation – Each dhole are tagged, and records such as health, breeding status, and behaviour are maintained in studbooks for long-term genetic tracking and population management.

What are the positive outcomes of the programme?

• Conservation breeding centre at Visakhapatnam Zoo has successfully bred over 40 dholes, including 16 pups and it is recognised as a national centre for dhole conservation
• It provides a captive safety net for a declining wild species and led and contributed crucial insights into dhole social and reproductive biology.
• It encourages research into lesser-known carnivores and provoide valuable insights on Dhole conservation across India.
• It educates zookeepers and researchers through observation and shows the potential of well-managed conservation breeding.

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park has been formally recognised by the Central Zoo Authority as India’s flagship conservation breeding centre for Asiatic wild dogs.

What are the other major challenges encountered?

• Limited founder population – The breeding programme started with a very small number of wild-caught dholes, leading to a restricted genetic base, which risks inbreeding and reduces long-term viability.
• Genetic bottlenecks – Due to the low genetic diversity, there's an increased risk of inherited health problems and poor reproductive success, making it difficult to build a strong, diverse captive population.
• Unpredictable breeding behaviour – Dholes have complex social hierarchies, and successful mating often depends on stable pack dynamics.
• Stress and handling issues – Dholes are highly alert and fidgety, making it difficult to handle them for medical care or tagging.
• Physical restraint causes stress, so veterinarians rely on non-invasive techniques like blowpipes and remote monitoring.
• Lack of awareness and research gaps – There is limited scientific data on dhole behaviour, reproductive biology, and disease management.

What lies ahead?

• Developing a genetically strong and behaviourally stable captive population
• It serves as a referral and knowledge hub for dhole conservation in India
• Expanding collaboration across more zoos and wildlife centres.
• Preparing for eventual reintroduction into suitable protected habitats

Reference

The Hindu| Reviving India’s elusive predator