Are Wallabies Legal in India?

The diminutive and endearing marsupials known as wallabies are native to Australia and are frequently maintained as exotic pets elsewhere in the world. However, it’s unclear whether owning wallabies is permitted in India. The possession of the majority of exotic animals, including wallabies, is prohibited by India’s laws protecting wildlife. Wallabies cannot therefore be kept as pets in India.

However, as long as they have the required licences and adhere to the rules established by the Central Zoo Authority, zoos in India are permitted to house wallabies and other exotic animals. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and the Central Zoo Authority govern zoos in India, and they require them to take care of the animals well and prevent their exploitation for profit.

The Central Zoo Authority must first provide you the required licenses if you want to open a zoo in India. The procedure entails presenting a thorough proposal explaining the species you want to keep, the amenities you’ll offer, and the programs for education and conservation you’ve got planned. You can start setting up the zoo as soon as the proposal is accepted.

It’s a common misunderstanding that zoos exist purely for profit. While it is true that zoos make money from ticket sales and other ventures, their main objectives are to advance research, teaching, and conservation. Zoos are essential for saving endangered species, safeguarding animal habitats, and raising public awareness of the value of biodiversity.

On the other hand, the issue of outlawing zoos is still up for debate. Zoos, according to their detractors, are immoral and cruel, and the animals ought to be permitted to exist in their natural environments. On the other side, proponents think that zoos are an essential tool for education and conservation, and they offer a secure environment for creatures who can’t thrive in the wild.

The Covid-19 pandemic caused substantial financial losses for zoos all over the world in 2020. Despite the lack of precise data for Indian zoos, it is believed that over $300 million in revenue was lost by zoos worldwide. Zoos still play a key role in wildlife conservation and education despite the financial difficulties.

In conclusion, while it is illegal to own wallabies as pets in India, zoos that adhere to the rules and obtain the appropriate licences may do so. Zoos are crucial for encouraging conservation and education, but there is still continuous discussion about the ethics of their operations. However, zoos continue to be an important tool for the protection of wildlife and public education in India and other countries.