Belagavi zoo on alert after 28 Blackbucks died under unclear circumstances

Twenty-eight blackbucks have been reported dead under mysterious circumstances at the Kittur Rani Chennamma Zoo in Belagavi over the past three days, leading to an immediate probe being ordered by the Karnataka government.

It was confirmed by zoo officials on Saturday that of the 38 blackbucks housed in the facility, 28 had been lost since Thursday, causing alarm among forest authorities. The deaths were described as “deeply concerning” by Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwara Khandre, and directions were issued for the exact cause to be determined at the earliest.

According to Assistant Conservator of Forests Nagaraj Balhasuri, it was reported that eight blackbucks had died two days ago, followed by 20 more on Saturday. A possible bacterial infection was suspected by the zoo’s veterinary doctor, although officials stated that the actual cause was yet to be confirmed.

Viscera samples of the deceased animals have been sent to Bannerghatta Zoological Park in Bengaluru for laboratory analysis. It was stated by Balhasuri that the samples had been sent to ascertain the exact cause of death.

In a statement issued by Minister Khandre, it was noted that preliminary indications suggested an infectious disease. It was further stated that precautionary measures had been taken to prevent the spread of the infection to other animals in the zoo. A recommendation was made for the formation of an expert committee to investigate whether contaminated food or water, or disease transmission from domestic animals such as cats, might have played a role.

“It is a matter of concern that animals in the zoo are dying in this way. It was emphasised that such incidents should not recur, and that appropriate action would be taken as per rules if negligence on the part of the staff is found,” the minister’s statement read.

A warning was issued that strict action would be taken if staff negligence is established. Monitoring of other animals across the zoo is being carried out as the investigation continues.