<h4>Introduction to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park</h4><p>The <strong>Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park</strong>, commonly known as <strong>Darjeeling Zoo</strong>, is a prominent institution located in <strong>Darjeeling, West Bengal</strong>. It holds a significant position in India's wildlife conservation landscape, particularly for its specialized breeding programs.</p><p>Established at an altitude of approximately <strong>7,000 feet (2,134 meters)</strong>, it is renowned for its focus on preserving and breeding endangered Himalayan animal species.</p><h4>Pioneering Snow Leopard Conservation</h4><p>The <strong>Darjeeling Zoo</strong> is uniquely distinguished by hosting the <strong>only conservative breeding programme for snow leopards in India</strong>. This initiative is crucial for the long-term survival of this elusive and endangered big cat.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The <strong>snow leopard (<em>Panthera uncia</em>)</strong> is listed as <strong>Vulnerable</strong> on the IUCN Red List. Conservation breeding programs like the one at Darjeeling Zoo play a vital role in maintaining genetic diversity and providing a safeguard against extinction.</p></div><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Conservative breeding programs</strong> are a form of <strong>ex-situ conservation</strong>, where species are bred in controlled environments outside their natural habitats to ensure their survival and potential reintroduction.</p></div><h4>Broader Conservation Initiatives</h4><p>Beyond the iconic <strong>snow leopard</strong>, the <strong>Darjeeling Zoo</strong> extends its critical conservation efforts to several other endangered Himalayan species. These programs are integral to preserving the unique biodiversity of the region.</p><ul><li><strong>Red Pandas</strong>: The zoo has a successful breeding program for the <strong>red panda (<em>Ailurus fulgens</em>)</strong>, another charismatic and threatened species native to the Eastern Himalayas.</li><li><strong>Mountain Goats (Bharal)</strong>: It also undertakes breeding initiatives for <strong>mountain orals</strong>, referring to species like the <strong>Bharal (Himalayan Blue Sheep)</strong>, which are crucial prey for snow leopards.</li><li><strong>Pheasants</strong>: Various species of Himalayan <strong>pheasants</strong>, often indicators of healthy forest ecosystems, are also part of the zoo's conservative breeding efforts.</li></ul><h4>India's Largest High-Altitude Zoo</h4><p>The <strong>Darjeeling Zoo</strong> holds the distinction of being the <strong>largest high-altitude zoo in India</strong>. Its unique geographical location allows it to provide suitable environments for species adapted to cold, mountainous climates.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>The specific altitude and focus on <strong>Himalayan fauna</strong> make <strong>Darjeeling Zoo</strong> a key example for questions on <strong>ex-situ conservation</strong>, <strong>biodiversity hotspots</strong>, and <strong>wildlife protection in mountainous regions</strong> in <strong>UPSC GS Paper III</strong>.</p></div>