Experiencing the Wonders of Nature at the Zoo 🌿🦁

There's something truly magical about stepping into a world where the wild meets the human realm – a place where we can come face to face with creatures we've only seen on screens or in books.

However, my experience was not in sync with these bookish words. To be honest, visiting this zoo made me a little sad and the whole experience was not fun at all.

It's not about seeing the misery of the captive animals but much more. Let me share my experience!

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Last month we went to the Recreation Park and Rangpur Zoo, located at Rangpur; Bangladesh. You will wonder knowing this is the second largest zoo in Bangladesh in terms of size (21.51 acres) but unfortunately not for the finest experience.

This zoo was established in 1989 so I have many experience visiting the place as a child. Now after so many years, I feel very different.

The entry fee was $.20 which is very cheap. As we entered the zoo, we were expecting a sense of anticipation and wonder will envelop us. But that didn't happen. After we entered the zoo, it felt like there was a lack of management everywhere. The gardens were not well taken of, there were puddles here and there. On top of everything, the animals were looking sad!

All the animals were in small cages which they were living year after year. The zoo promised they will increase the standard of living and the food quality of the animals when they established the zoo. But after all these years, there's no change. And seems like this place is only for misery; things will never change.

I found some of the animal's cages were empty. When I asked the keeper, they replied some of them died, some are in the vet hospital for better care, etc.

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I remember this deer cage used to be very green. Now, look at it! I'm not sure why there was no grass on the ground anymore. Also, the deer were looking for food and some tourists were even feeding them. I didn't find any food in their cages though.

When I visited this zoo 5/6 years back, there were many deers as well as different animals. But now, I found many cages were empty, and some animals died.

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This made me sad knowing the tiger died a few months ago. This is the old aged lion, waiting for its death too!

The alligators look fine though.

There were hippos, bears, different species of birds, some other animals, and reptiles as well. Some of their cages are so small, it will make you sad for sure.

In between all those negative feelings, this beautiful creature made our day.

We encountered the peacock at the perfect time when it was dancing. How beautiful it is!

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Ultimately, a day at the zoo is a journey of discovery – a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences that leaves a lasting impression.

The nature inside the zoo may not look like not well taken care of but I enjoyed the green.

The zoo is a place of joy and laughter, especially for families like us with young children. Excitement radiates from the little ones as they see their favorite animals up close. It's a chance to inspire a love for wildlife and instill a sense of wonder and respect for all living beings.

My son couldn't see the animals clearly through the nets on the cages. He preferred to run around this path, around the lake, and all.

We took a seat on the bench on the side of the lake. There is a canteen inside the zoo but they couldn't offer any food at that time only some chips and pops. So we had to leave the place earlier.

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However, amidst the feeling, visiting a zoo evoke moments of contemplation. I couldn't help but was thinking about the ethics of captivity and the complexities of providing a suitable environment for animals bred in captivity. These reflections underscore the importance of responsible zoo management and the pursuit of alternatives that prioritize the well-being of animals.

The place would be much better if they can provide better care and living places for the animals. I know, it's not a safari park but at least they can manage bigger cages and better service. Also, there was nothing for recreation for the families, no food zone, no entertainment/education hub, etc.

My words may sound saddening but this was my raw experience.

If only the authority considers improving the standard of the zoo then the tourists can embrace the feeling of wonder, joy, and respect for the animals. It would be blissful if we could have more chances to continue to appreciate the beauty and splendor of our planet's diverse inhabitants. 🌍🐾

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