Chennai’s Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur breathed a collective sigh of relief on Monday, October 6, 2025, when Sheryaar, a five-year-old lion, returned to his night shelter at 4:30 p.m. after a three-day absence in the zoo’s 50-acre safari enclosure. The lion, originally brought from Bengaluru’s Bannerghatta Biological Park in 2023 through an animal exchange program, had been released into the safari zone on October 3 for a routine familiarization exercise. When Sheryaar failed to return to his shelter that evening, zoo authorities promptly initiated a comprehensive monitoring operation to ensure his safety while allowing him to explore his surroundings.
The zoo deployed five specialized search teams, comprising veterinarians, biologists, and animal caretakers, to track Sheryaar’s movements within the secure safari area. Advanced technology, including thermal and visual drones and over ten camera traps, was utilized to monitor the lion’s whereabouts. To support his well-being during this period, food and water stations were strategically placed across the safari zone. Zoo officials emphasized that Sheryaar remained within the secure boundaries of the enclosure at all times, alleviating concerns about public safety or an escape.
A 16-second video released by the zoo captured the moment Sheryaar sprinted back to the shelter, a sight that sparked relief and excitement among the staff who had been vigilantly tracking him for nearly 72 hours. The zoo’s director noted, “We are pleased to inform you that Sheryaar safely returned to the safari night shelter on his own. Such exploratory behavior is considered normal, as young lions adapt to their environment before settling into routine.” This behavior, experts explained, is typical for a young male lion adjusting to a new habitat, particularly one as expansive as the Vandalur safari zone.
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Further details from the zoo reveal that Sheryaar’s movements were closely monitored using real-time data from the camera traps, which captured images of the lion exploring various parts of the enclosure, including wooded areas and open terrain. The search teams also employed tranquilizer guns on standby as a precautionary measure, though they were not needed, as Sheryaar showed no signs of distress or aggression. The zoo’s robust safety protocols, reviewed by senior officials including the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Chief Wildlife Warden, ensured the situation remained under control. The operation highlighted the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and safety, with staff maintaining constant vigilance until Sheryaar’s return.
The incident coincided with the recent cancellation of the zoo’s “Wild Trail Run” event, originally scheduled for October 5 as part of Wildlife Week celebrations, due to administrative reasons. Sheryaar’s safe return underscores the effectiveness of the zoo’s management and safety measures, reinforcing its reputation as a leading conservation and zoological park in India.
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