The Department of Zoological Gardens says the lack of financial resources to meet the daily food requirements of animals at the Dehiwala Zoo and other gardens around the island has reached a critical state.
At a discussion at the Department of Wildlife officials noted that zoos are facing severe shortages of food for animals due to factors including the decrease in foreign tourist arrivals, drop in tourist arrivals due to the fuel shortage and increase in the prices of food items.
Meanwhile, it was revealed that elephants that are subjects of court cases have been vested with the Department while Rs.45 million is required annually for the upkeep of the animals.
Officials further noted the Department is Rs.59 million in debt to food suppliers.
The Department of Zoological Gardens further stated that a minimum of Rs.120 million is required this year for expenses, with necessary financial allocations.
