Belagavi (Karnataka), Nov 18 (NationPress) The number of blackbuck fatalities at the Kittur Chennamma Mini Zoo in Bhutaramanahatti village has tragically increased to 31 as of Tuesday. Authorities are now concerned about the potential spread of an infectious bacterial disease to nearby villages. In response, the Karnataka Zoo Authority has issued an advisory urging the public to remain vigilant.

According to recent reports, of the 38 blackbucks housed at the Mini Zoo, 31 have succumbed, with suspicions pointing toward Haemorrhagic Septicaemia (HM) or lumpy skin disease as the cause. As a precautionary measure, zoo officials have contacted the Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, warning of a possible outbreak.

Given that both HM and lumpy skin disease can affect herbivorous animals, livestock owners have been advised to take necessary precautions. The authorities have also called for immediate actions to prevent further spread of the disease.

The Executive Director and Deputy Conservator of Forests have sent a formal communication to the Animal Husbandry Department, highlighting that the blackbucks at the Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo have been dying in recent days. Experts' initial reports indicate a bacterial infection as the primary cause of death. To avert infections in other herbivores, they have urged the initiation of precautionary measures in surrounding areas.

A post-mortem report is anticipated to be completed shortly, which will clarify the specific cause of death among the blackbucks. A team of veterinarians has already arrived at the Mini Zoo earlier today. Authorities confirmed that the remaining seven blackbucks are showing signs of recovery, and every effort is being made to save them.

The alarming death of 31 blackbucks within just four days has raised significant concerns across Karnataka. Officials are currently awaiting forensic and post-mortem results to determine the cause of these fatalities.

This incident has raised eyebrows, especially since the zoo attracts thousands of visitors daily, not just from Belagavi, but also from nearby districts and even Maharashtra, who come to enjoy the wildlife.

The mass death of blackbucks, which are classified as an endangered species under the Wildlife Protection Act, has created a wave of outrage among wildlife conservationists and animal advocates.

On November 13, eight blackbucks were reported dead. Samples were dispatched to the lab to identify the cause. Before those results were back, another 20 blackbucks perished. Following that, one more blackbuck died on Sunday, and by Monday and Tuesday, two additional deaths were confirmed.