Rescued leopard ‘Bittu’ dies after prolonged illness at SGNP

The team of officials with Bittu. Pic/Special Arrangement

A rescued male leopard named Bittu has died after a prolonged illness at Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai.

Forest officials said the six-year-old leopard died on March 21, 2026 despite months of treatment.

Bittu had been rescued as a few-day-old cub from the Yeoor range in Thane on December 4, 2019, officials said, adding that since then, he was hand-reared and cared for by veterinary teams and animal keepers at the park.

Diagnosed with kidney disease

Deputy Director (South), Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Borivali, said Bittu had been showing signs of illness for several months and was under continuous medical care.

An ultrasound examination indicated Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a serious condition affecting the kidneys.

Despite intensive treatment and supportive care, his condition continued to worsen.

Post-mortem findings

A post-mortem examination confirmed the presence of multiple cysts in the kidneys, indicating advanced renal disease.

Veterinarians said the condition led to multiple organ failure, which caused the animal's death.

Samples sent for analysis

Biological samples have been sent to Mumbai Veterinary College for further testing and confirmation.

Officials added that all standard protocols were followed during treatment and after the leopard's death.