Pilikula Biological Park in Mangaluru begins implanting microchips to tag various species of animals

Pilikula zoo in Mangaluru uses microchips to tag various species of animals. A microchip is a tiny electronic device implanted under the subcutaneous layer of skin.

Pilikula Biological Park in Mangaluru, one of the major zoos in India, has taken up tagging of select species of wild animals under captivity by implanting microchips.

At present, microchipping of King Cobras selected for captive breeding is in progress. Other select species of animals will be tagged with microchips shortly, according to park Director H. Jayaprakash Bhandary.

The park has more than 1,200 wild animals, including mammals, birds and reptiles. In addition to King Cobras, many other animals and birds have been breeding at the park. The main objectives of the zoo are conservation, education and scientific research of wild animals, he said.

Since most animals of a species look identical, microchipping helps identify them. During captive breeding, he said, avoiding in-breeding is important. Implanting microchips helps prevent in-breeding through identification of individuals during breeding, Mr. Bhandary explained.

A microchip is a tiny electronic device implanted under the subcutaneous layer of skin. Microchips have a separate receiver, which consists of a hand-held scanner. Name of each animal and transponder numbers are recorded in a stud book, the Director said.

He said that tigers, lions, and panthers will be implanted with microchips next. Other species selected for tagging include Stripped hyena, Wild dog, Indian grey wolf, Sloth bear and crocodiles of Gharial and Nile species.

While taking up the implanting process, gender of King Cobras and other animals is identified. The length, weight and height of animals will also be recorded.