What Caused the Death of 28 Endangered Blackbucks in K'taka?
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Synopsis
The alarming death of 28 endangered blackbucks at a Karnataka zoo has raised serious concerns. With authorities awaiting key forensic reports, questions linger about the reasons behind this tragic incident. Wildlife advocates express outrage over potential negligence by officials responsible for the animals’ welfare.
Key Takeaways
- 28 blackbucks died in three days, raising alarms.
- Forensic reports are awaited to determine the cause.
- Conflicting statements from officials raise suspicions.
- Investigation into potential negligence by the Forest Department is ongoing.
- Experts stress the need for better health monitoring.
Belagavi (Karnataka), Nov 16 (NationPress) The troubling demise of 28 blackbucks within a mere three days at the Kittur Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo in Belagavi has ignited significant concern across Karnataka. Authorities are currently awaiting the results from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and post-mortem examinations to uncover the cause.
This alarming incident involving blackbucks—an endangered species safeguarded under the Wildlife Protection Act—has led to a wave of outrage from wildlife advocates and animal enthusiasts.
A team of two veterinarians has traveled from Bengaluru's Bannerghatta National Park to perform a second round of post-mortem examinations on three blackbucks on Sunday. They will also collect samples of the feed provided to the blackbucks over the past week and conduct health assessments on 10 surviving individuals.
The situation surrounding the deaths of the 28 blackbucks at the Kittur Chennamma Mini Zoo has escalated. Forest officials have indicated to the minister that the deaths were linked to feeding issues, while media sources have reported a potential bacterial infection. Such conflicting statements, made even before the release of the FSL report, have raised considerable suspicion.
It is important to note that blackbucks died under questionable circumstances at the Kittur Chennamma Mini Zoo located in Bhutaramanahatti village of Belagavi taluk. The rapid loss of 28 blackbucks within three days has raised significant alarm. On November 13, eight blackbucks were reported dead, with samples sent for laboratory analysis to determine the cause. Remarkably, before those results could be obtained, another 20 blackbucks succumbed.
Investigations are ongoing to ascertain if the mysterious deaths stemmed from negligence by the Forest Department or an outbreak of disease. Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has mandated stringent precautions and warned of disciplinary action if staff negligence is identified.
Initial findings suggest a bacterial infection as the likely cause of the mass deaths, highlighting serious concerns regarding the alleged negligence of the zoo’s veterinary team and forest personnel.
Experts believe that the casualty rate could have been significantly reduced had the infected blackbucks been identified and isolated promptly. The lack of consistent health monitoring and delayed responses to initial signs of illness are viewed as critical oversights by those responsible for the animals’ care.
The blackbucks were transferred from the Gadag zoo approximately four to five years ago and were aged between four and six years. Of the deceased, 13 were males and the remaining females, representing a substantial setback for the zoo’s blackbuck population.
After the deaths of the first eight blackbucks, officials conducted post-mortem examinations, collected biological samples as per standard protocol, and disposed of the carcasses through incineration. The samples have been dispatched to the Bannerghatta laboratory for a thorough analysis to determine the precise cause of the outbreak.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the ongoing investigations into the mass death of blackbucks at the Kittur Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo. The revelations surrounding the potential negligence of the staff and conflicting statements from officials raise critical questions. We must advocate for transparency and accountability to ensure the protection of endangered species and the integrity of wildlife conservation efforts in our nation.
NationPress
16/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the deaths of the blackbucks?
Authorities are currently investigating the cause, with preliminary indications suggesting a bacterial infection linked to potential negligence in care and monitoring.
How many blackbucks died?
A total of 28 blackbucks died at the Kittur Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo within a span of three days.
What actions are being taken by the authorities?
Investigations are underway, and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has ordered strict precautions and warned of disciplinary actions if negligence is confirmed.
What is the status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities awaiting forensic reports to confirm the cause of death and assess any negligence by staff.
Are blackbucks an endangered species?
Yes, blackbucks are classified as an endangered species and are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act.
