7 Leopard Cubs Die of Deadly Virus Attack at Bengaluru Biological Park

Bengaluru: Seven leopard cubs at Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru have reportedly succumbed to a highly contagious virus, according to park officials. The virus responsible is Feline Panleukopenia (FP), caused by the feline parvovirus, with kittens being particularly vulnerable.

The initial outbreak was detected on August 22, with the affected cubs aged between three and eight months. Despite being vaccinated, they could not overcome the infection during treatment. AV Surya Sen, Executive Director of Bannerghatta Biological Park, emphasized that stringent measures have been implemented to contain the virus.

Despite vaccination efforts, seven cubs perished within 15 days of the outbreak. Among them, four were among the nine cubs released into the Safari area, while three others from the rescue centre also succumbed to the virus despite treatment. The Feline Panleukopenia virus ravages the animal’s intestine, leading to severe symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration, typically resulting in death within four to five days of infection.

Fortunately, in the past 15 days, no new cases have been reported, indicating that the situation is now under control. Rigorous hygiene measures have been enforced throughout the zoo, including the complete sanitization of the rescue centre. Despite the tragic loss of these leopard cubs, the park authorities have taken comprehensive steps to prevent further outbreaks.