Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP)

Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) is a major zoological and ecological reserve located near Bengaluru, in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. Established to conserve biodiversity and promote environmental education, the park forms part of the Bannerghatta National Park, a larger protected area in the foothills of the Anekal Range of the Eastern Ghats. Spanning lush forested terrain, the park integrates a zoo, safari areas, a butterfly park, and rescue facilities, combining wildlife conservation with eco-tourism and scientific research.

Location and Geographic Overview

Bannerghatta Biological Park is situated approximately 22 kilometres south of Bengaluru city centre, covering an area of about 731 hectares within the greater Bannerghatta National Park, which extends over nearly 260 square kilometres.
The region’s landscape comprises undulating hills, scrub forests, and patches of moist deciduous vegetation interspersed with rocky outcrops. The park lies in the Deccan Plateau’s southern dry zone, with elevations ranging from 700 to 950 metres above sea level. It is drained by minor streams that ultimately join the Arkavathi River, a tributary of the Cauvery.
The park’s proximity to Bengaluru makes it one of India’s most accessible and frequently visited wildlife destinations, balancing conservation and recreation within a metropolitan context.

Historical Background and Establishment

The origins of Bannerghatta Biological Park trace back to the 1970s, when a small zoo was established to promote wildlife education and awareness among urban residents. Recognising its ecological potential, the Karnataka government formally declared the area as part of Bannerghatta National Park in 1971.
In 2002, the biological park was carved out as an independent entity to focus specifically on ex-situ conservation (breeding and care of animals outside their natural habitats), research, and visitor engagement. It is administered by the Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK) and functions under the guidelines of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) of India.

Structure and Key Components

Bannerghatta Biological Park is divided into distinct zones, each designed to serve conservation, education, or recreation purposes while ensuring minimal ecological disturbance.

1. Zoo Section:
   • Houses over 90 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds.
   • Enclosures simulate natural habitats, offering educational exhibits on biodiversity.
   • Major attractions include tigers, lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, bears, crocodiles, and various bird species.
2. Safari Area:
   • Covers approximately 5 square kilometres.
   • Visitors are taken on guided safaris through open enclosures to observe large animals in semi-natural conditions.
   • Divided into four main safaris — Lion Safari, Tiger Safari, Herbivore Safari, and Bear Safari.
   • These safaris promote understanding of animal behaviour while ensuring safe viewing experiences.
3. Butterfly Park:
   • India’s first butterfly park, inaugurated in 2007, covering about 7.5 acres.
   • Includes a butterfly garden, a conservatory dome, a museum, and an audio-visual room.
   • The conservatory maintains temperature and humidity suitable for butterfly breeding and sustains over 40 native species, making it an important centre for pollinator conservation.
4. Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre:
   • Provides care and shelter for injured, confiscated, and rescued wild animals.
   • Works in coordination with forest officials to rehabilitate animals affected by urban encroachment and illegal trade.
   • Plays a critical role in human–wildlife conflict management in the Bengaluru region.
5. Environmental Education and Research:
   • The park conducts awareness programmes, workshops, and nature camps for students and visitors.
   • Research activities include behavioural studies, breeding programmes, and ecological monitoring.

Flora and Fauna

Flora: The park’s vegetation is representative of dry deciduous and scrub forest ecosystems. Dominant tree species include Terminalia, Albizia, Cassia, Acacia, and Ficus varieties. Grasses and shrubs support herbivorous wildlife and provide nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
Fauna: Bannerghatta Biological Park sustains a rich variety of animals both within enclosures and in the surrounding forested landscape.

• Mammals: Tiger (Panthera tigris), Lion (Panthera leo), Leopard (Panthera pardus), Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus), Gaur (Bos gaurus), Elephant (Elephas maximus), Sambar (Rusa unicolor), and Spotted Deer (Axis axis).
• Birds: Peafowl, Hornbills, Parakeets, Owls, Eagles, and migratory species during winter.
• Reptiles: Indian Rock Python, Monitor Lizard, Cobra, and various turtles and crocodiles.
• Butterflies: Common Mormon, Blue Tiger, Crimson Rose, Southern Birdwing (state butterfly of Karnataka), and many others thrive in the butterfly enclosure.

Conservation and Research Initiatives

Bannerghatta Biological Park functions as an important centre for wildlife conservation, breeding, and scientific study.
Key conservation activities include:

• Captive Breeding Programmes: Focused on endangered species such as the Bengal Tiger and Lion-tailed Macaque.
• Wildlife Rescue Operations: Coordinated with the Forest Department to manage displaced animals.
• Habitat Restoration: Efforts to prevent soil erosion and revive degraded patches through afforestation.
• Species Monitoring: Use of camera traps and record-keeping to monitor animal health and behaviour.

The park also contributes to conservation education by collaborating with schools and universities, encouraging community involvement in wildlife protection.

Tourism and Visitor Facilities

Bannerghatta Biological Park attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited zoological destinations in South India.
Visitor facilities include:

• Safari rides using battery-operated vehicles and buses.
• Interpretation centres and information kiosks.
• Walk-through aviaries and animal exhibits.
• Cafeterias, rest areas, and eco-friendly pathways.
• Eco-lodges and guesthouses managed under regulated tourism frameworks.

The park emphasises eco-tourism principles, aiming to generate awareness and revenue without disturbing natural habitats.

Environmental Challenges

Despite its success, BBP faces several challenges linked to its proximity to Bengaluru and increasing urbanisation:

• Urban Encroachment: Expansion of city limits and construction near the park’s boundary have fragmented wildlife corridors.
• Human–Wildlife Conflict: Stray livestock grazing, waste dumping, and noise pollution threaten native species.
• Visitor Pressure: Overcrowding during peak seasons strains infrastructure and animal welfare measures.
• Water Scarcity: Seasonal shortages affect vegetation and water-dependent species.

Management strategies now focus on creating buffer zones, improving waste management, and introducing sustainable energy systems to reduce ecological impact.

Governance and Community Involvement

The park operates under the Zoo Authority of Karnataka, with oversight from the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment. Local communities participate in eco-development initiatives, tree planting drives, and awareness programmes.
Partnerships with NGOs and research institutions enhance monitoring, habitat management, and training of staff in animal care and conservation techniques.

Significance and Impact

Bannerghatta Biological Park serves as a model of urban conservation, demonstrating how wildlife preservation can coexist with a rapidly developing metropolitan region. It plays multiple roles:

• A biodiversity hotspot, supporting endemic flora and fauna.
• A centre for environmental education, inspiring public awareness.
• A tourism hub, contributing to Karnataka’s economy.
• A scientific resource, aiding research on wildlife management and ecology.

Its integrated approach — combining in-situ and ex-situ conservation, education, and sustainable tourism — reflects India’s broader commitment to preserving its natural heritage.