Tragedy in Jamshedpur Zoo: Blackbuck Deaths Spark Alert

At least 10 blackbucks have died at Tata Steel Zoological Park in Jamshedpur due to a suspected bacterial infection. Investigations are ongoing to confirm if Pasteurella bacteria caused these deaths. Precautionary measures are being taken, while other zoos, like Birsa zoo in Ranchi, have heightened their alerts.

At least ten blackbucks have succumbed to a suspected bacterial infection at Tata Steel Zoological Park in Jamshedpur, officials confirmed on Sunday. The deaths, occurring between December 1 and December 6, have prompted investigations into the precise cause, suspected to be Pasteurellosis, a disease caused by the Pasteurella bacteria.

The carcasses have been sent to Ranchi Veterinary College for postmortem examinations to confirm the diagnosis. Precautionary measures are in place at the zoo, which initially housed 18 blackbucks, leaving eight remaining after the outbreak. The Central Zoo Authority has been notified of these developments.

Following the fatalities, Birsa zoo in Ranchi has heightened its vigilance and initiated antibacterial and antiviral preventive measures to protect its own population of blackbucks. Officials stress that the situation is currently under control as they await confirmation of the diagnosis.

(With inputs from agencies.)