The Kittur Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo, located on the outskirts of Belagavi, is undergoing a ₹2.6 crore transformation aimed at boosting eco-tourism. Spanning 34.4 hectares, the zoo is being upgraded to qualify as a Medium Zoo, with an additional 20 hectares planned for expansion to house more animal enclosures.
Four major projects are nearing completion and are expected to be opened to the public by December. These include a modern reptile park, a new crocodile enclosure, and an iconic illuminated entry tower crowned with a statue of freedom fighter Kittur Rani Chennamma.
Reptile Park to Host Exotic Species
The upcoming reptile park is one of the zoo’s key attractions, set to feature 12 exotic snake species in male-female pairs, including the King Cobra, Rattlesnake, Rock Python, Reticulated Python, Green Anaconda, Lake Snake, and Monitor Lizard. The King Cobra and large pythons are expected to draw major attention.
New Crocodile Zone
A 1,200-square-metre crocodile enclosure is also under development. While the zoo already has a Mugger crocodile, two Gharials are expected to join the space soon.
In addition, a colourful bird zone now houses species such as lovebirds, cockatiels, sun conures, zebra finches, and rose-ringed parakeets. A dedicated area featuring unique sheep breeds from across India is also in progress.
To enhance visitor experience, a museum and an auditorium are under construction.
Iconic Entry Tower
The entrance has been revamped with a 65-foot-tall illuminated signage structure, bearing the statue of Rani Chennamma. Designed for high visibility, the tower can be spotted from over a kilometre away, attracting travellers along the highway.
Towards Medium Zoo Recognition
Range Forest Officer Pavan Kuraning stated that a proposal will be submitted to the Central Zoo Authority of India by month-end to upgrade the zoo’s status. “We aim to expand the zoo by 20 more hectares for additional enclosures,” he told reporters.
Currently, the zoo includes a safari and shelters 216 animals and birds, including three tigers, two lions, three leopards, bears, blackbucks, sambar deer, hyenas, and jackals.
