It goes without saying that the pandemic has had a ghastly impact on human life and continues to do so. But in the same vein, there has been a substantial effect on animals too as many wildlife sanctuaries and zoos have been running empty for over a year. Thereby, actor and the current ambassador of the Karnataka Forest Department, Darshan Thoogudeepa, has come out with a special message for the public wherein he implores everyone to choose animal adoption. Through the help of a brief video message that was released through social media, the Challenging Star sheds light on the prevailing concerns for zoo authorities in Karnataka and how, due to a considerable decrease in the footfall, the staff and the animals are affected as a result.

"There are nine zoos across Karnataka which means that there are over 5000 animals sheltered in them. And because of the pandemic, the influx of public from all over the country has dropped significantly - this results in a lack of funds to feed the animals or provide salaries to the staff that works in these zoo establishments. These people need our help more than ever and it takes only a small effort on our part which animal adoption. By paying a fixed amount (per year), you can choose to adopt an animal of your choice and support the authorities in their well-being - for eg.: to adopt a love bird, you would be required to pay Rs. 1000. The cost of taking care of a tiger would Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 1.75 lakhs for an elephant" said Darshan in the video while also highlighting the ways to go about the adoption.

The government of Karnataka appointed him the brand ambassador of the forest department not very long ago.

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