Jamshedpur Zoo Reports Loss of Ten Blackbucks to Bacterial Infection

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a concerning development, ten blackbucks at Tata Steel Zoological Park in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, have died between December 1 and December 6 due to what is suspected to be a bacterial infection, according to officials. The last report of death occurred on December 6. Among the zoo's population of 18 blackbucks, only eight remain.

The deceased animals were sent to Ranchi Veterinary College for a thorough examination. Dr. Pragya Lakra, an Assistant Professor of Veterinary Pathology, indicated that the likely cause of death is Haemorrhagic Septicaemia, a bacterial condition known as Pasteurellosis, stemming from Pasteurella bacteria. Additional investigations are planned to ascertain the precise cause of mortality.

Dr. Naim Akhtar, the deputy director of TSZP, confirmed that the initial death was recorded on December 1 and that samples were dispatched to Ranchi Veterinary College for testing. Jamshedpur's Divisional Forest Officer, Saba Alam, noted that the Central Zoo Authority has been notified and all necessary precautions are actively being undertaken to curb the disease's spread.

Dr. M.K. Gupta, head of the Pathology Department at Ranchi Veterinary College, elaborated that Pasteurella has rapid body transmission, significantly impacting the lungs and leading to abrupt fatalities. The typical symptoms seen include high fever, swelling in the neck, and diarrhea. Dr. Akhtar assured that antibacterial treatments have commenced and the situation is currently contained.

In light of these developments, Birsa Biological Park in Ranchi has raised its alert status. With 69 blackbucks in its care, the zoo has enacted preventive measures, including the application of anti-viral and anti-bacterial sprays and regular sanitation protocols in susceptible regions. This facility accommodates around 1,450 animals and birds spanning 83 species over 104 hectares.

Authorities are vigilantly keeping the situation under close observation to avert any further wildlife losses, prioritizing the safety and health of all animals in the vicinity.