Belagavi: The series of blackbuck deaths at Kittur Rani Channamma mini zoo in Belagavi continues, with another animal found dead early Monday morning, raising the total fatalities to 31 in just five days. The alarming trend has triggered concern among wildlife authorities and conservationists.
According to the forest department, the deaths occurred over a short span. 8 blackbucks on November 13, 20 on November 15, one on the morning of November 16, another on the evening of the same day, and now one more on November 17. Only seven blackbucks remain in the enclosure, and authorities are making intensive efforts to save them.
A team of specialist veterinarians from Bannerghatta National Park has been treating the remaining blackbucks. The zoo’s governing authority president, Rangaswamy, visited the facility to inspect the situation and review ongoing measures with the officials.
Initial assessments suggest that the deaths may be caused by a bacterial disease called Haemorrhagic Septicemia (HS), which can kill animals within 24 hours. The veterinarians suspect that the pattern of deaths corresponds with this highly virulent disease. Samples from vital organs including the liver and kidneys of the deceased blackbucks have been collected and sent to the Bengaluru Veterinary Science Institute for detailed analysis. The final report is expected to confirm the exact cause of death.
Meanwhile, District In-charge Minister Satish Jarakiholi held a crucial meeting in Belagavi’s Kuvempu Nagar with senior officials, including Rangaswamy (Zoo Authority President), DFO Kranti, and ACF Nagaraj Balehosur, to discuss preventive measures and ensure proper management of the remaining animals.
Authorities are taking all necessary steps, including quarantine, medication, and enhanced monitoring, to prevent further fatalities. The situation has also prompted calls for enhanced biosecurity measures at mini zoos across the state to protect endangered species like blackbucks from infectious diseases.
The forest department has appealed to the public and media to cooperate and avoid unnecessary panic until the cause is officially confirmed.
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