wildlife veterinary officer

NTCA greenlights translocation; arrivals expected in July-Aug

A tigress and her last cub have died at Kanha Tiger Reserve, bringing the state's tiger death toll to 30 this year. Officials suspect canine distemper virus (CDV) as the cause, potentially spread from domestic dogs. A large-scale sanitization and vaccination operation is underway to prevent further transmission.

An adult tiger in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve was spotted with a deep circular neck wound, possibly from a snare, raising concerns among forest officials. The injury, widely circulated on social media, has prompted efforts to track the tiger for rescue using camera traps and drones. Recent poaching incidents in the area add to the worry.

As summer swelters, Patna Zoo takes a proactive approach to safeguarding the well-being of its animals and guests. Innovative cooling solutions like fans, water sprays, and air conditioning for reptiles are enhancing comfort across the premises. To further nourish its inhabitants, the zoo is introducing refreshing dietary options packed with hydration, like glucose-infused treats and juicy fruits.

A farmer was arrested in Jajpur district for allegedly poisoning a sloth bear to death. The protected animal was found dead after mistakenly consuming pesticide-laced fruits, believed to have been set out to kill wild boars damaging crops. Forest officials are investigating, with more arrests possible as they tackle the growing issue of poison baits harming wildlife.

In a heartbreaking incident that has shocked the community, poachers mercilessly mutilated Mangal Singh, a cherished domesticated elephant in Assam's Lakhipather forest, severing both his tusks. This venerable creature endured excruciating pain for several days before finally receiving the veterinary assistance he desperately needed.

A 9-year-old tusker died a painful death in Odisha's Kandhamal district after ingesting an explosive-laced bait ball on April 6. The elephant suffered severe jaw damage, preventing it from eating and leading to its demise after 12 agonizing days. Forest officials are investigating the incident, suspecting poachers used a watermelon as bait to hunt wild boar.

An 11-foot saltwater crocodile, approximately 10 years old, was discovered dead in the Hansua river within Bhitarkanika National Park. Forest officials suspect a territorial fight or entanglement in fishing nets as potential causes for its demise. This incident marks the 16th unnatural crocodile death in the park over six years, raising concerns for the protected species.

A Cinereous Vulture from Madhya Pradesh, India, was rescued and rehabilitated. It later flew to Pakistan and was injured. Authorities and environmentalists from both countries coordinated a successful rescue. The vulture is recovering in Pakistan. This event highlights international cooperation in wildlife conservation.

Political parties in Tamil Nadu are increasingly acknowledging climate change, with manifestos highlighting heat mitigation, electric vehicles, and water management. While DMK and AIADMK show improvements in environmental focus, concerns remain regarding past actions and the implementation of promises. Animal welfare receives minimal attention, though DMK proposes upgrades to veterinary hospitals and wildlife conflict reduction systems.

A court has sentenced 11 individuals to four years in prison for poaching a male Asiatic elephant in Similipal Tiger Reserve in November 2023. The elephant was killed with a poisonous arrow, and its tusks were removed. This conviction is significant in dismantling elephant hunting gangs operating in the region.

A tigress found dead near railway tracks in Dudhwa buffer zone has sparked a dispute between forest officials and Northeast Railway. While the forest department suspects a train collision due to severe internal injuries, railways deny involvement, citing no physical evidence and loco pilot reports. Investigations are ongoing.

The child was playing in the courtyard when the leopard seized her by the neck. The incident sparked anger among residents and the victim’s body could be sent for autopsy only 18 hours after her death.

An 8-year-old female elephant died in Odisha's Dhenkanal district after critically injuring its trunk from a bait bomb. Poachers reportedly planted the explosive-laced food ball, intended for wild boar, which the elephant accidentally consumed. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for increased patrols to combat dangerous poaching methods.