Taipei Zoo Relocates Malayan Gharial "Kulong" to Renovated Habitat

Recently, Taipei Zoo renovated the old pool at the entrance of its Tropical Rainforest Area. The Malayan gharial, "Kulong", which originally lived there, was temporarily relocated to the Temperate Animal Zone. After the renovation, the pool is now wider and more spacious. Yesterday, a team of 30 zoo staff members carefully moved the over 700 kg "Kulong" back to its renovated habitat in the Tropical Rainforest Area. The gharial is adapting well to its new environment.

The zoo invites the public to visit the Tropical Rainforest Area and take photos with "Kulong" while the water is clear. "Kulong", measuring about 5.5 meters in length, has reached a weight of 720 kg, its highest record before spring. Although this relocation was part of routine space management, it was a major operation. Unlike mammals that can be desensitized to transport crates through training, the Malayan gharial required meticulous planning to remain calm during the move.

Early yesterday morning, over 30 staff members were on standby. After thorough discussions and rehearsals, they successfully secured "Kulong" with ropes and gently guided it into a transport crate. The team quickly measured its length and weight and took blood samples. Using dual cranes in the Temperate Animal Zone, "Kulong" was safely transported to the Tropical Rainforest Area.

Currently, "Kulong" is adapting well to its new habitat. During the hottest part of the day, it swims and explores its surroundings with its tail swishing in the warm water. The zoo welcomes visitors to take photos with "Kulong" but reminds them to speak softly and avoid tapping on the glass or feeding it.