Bengaluru
Tragedy struck at Bannerghatta Biological Park as seven leopard cubs fell victim to a deadly virus known as Pellin Panleukopenia. This lethal disease, transmitted by cats, was first observed in the park’s leopard cubs on August 22. Sadly, by September 5, it was confirmed that all seven cubs had succumbed to the virus. Notably, a leopard safari had recently commenced at Bannerghatta Park, during which nine leopard cubs were introduced into the safari area. Regrettably, three of these leopard cubs also fell victim to the infection. The infected leopard cubs were rescued from various locations near Biligirirangana Hill, Mysore Zoo, and Maddur before being brought to the rehabilitation center at Bannerghatta Biological Park. Following treatment, they were released into the safari. However, reports indicate that four leopard cubs under the care of the rehabilitation center have also succumbed to the virus. Pellin Panleukopenia is a cat-borne virus, and there is a possibility of transmission from both wild and domestic cats. Infected animals typically experience symptoms such as indigestion and dysentery, with a significant decrease in white blood cell count leading to exhaustion and, ultimately, death. The loss of these leopard cubs is a tragic event for Bannerghatta Biological Park, and efforts to prevent further outbreaks of the disease are ongoing.
