According to forest department officials, viscera samples of key organs—such as the heart, lungs, spleen, and liver—have been sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) and the Pune Forensic Laboratory for detailed analysis
Representational Image. Pic/Pixabay
In a disturbing development, 14 female and one male spotted deer have died under mysterious circumstances at the Pune Municipal Corporation-run Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Katraj over a span of six days.
According to forest department officials, viscera samples of key organs—such as the heart, lungs, spleen, and liver—have been sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) and the Pune Forensic Laboratory for detailed analysis.
The first death was reported on July 7, 2025, and continued until July 12, bringing the total toll to 15 deer—14 females and one male. “In the last two days, no further deaths have occurred, and we are taking intensive measures to contain any potential outbreak,” said Dr. Ghanshyam Pawar, veterinary officer at the zoo.
“We have implemented strict biosecurity protocols to prevent the spread of any infectious agent. Two separate feeding vehicles are now in use—one exclusively for deer and the other for the rest of the animals. Each deer has a dedicated keeper, equipped with gumboots and following strict hygiene norms. We’ve also bleached the premises and ensured proper storage and handling of feed,” Dr. Pawar added.
Post-mortems of the deceased animals have been completed, and the test reports are expected within three to four days. While the exact cause of death remains unknown, symptoms such as reduced food intake were observed before the fatalities.
Zoo authorities have heightened surveillance and isolated the spotted deer from other native species like the sambar deer, which have been shifted to separate enclosures as a precautionary step.
“We are administering antibiotics both orally and through injections to the remaining deer. A dedicated medical team is closely monitoring the animals' health, and the enclosures are under strict inspection,” said Rajkumar Jadhav, Director of Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park.
The incident has sparked concern among wildlife enthusiasts and the civic administration. Further action will depend on the diagnostic reports expected shortly.
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