Gir Forest Lion Deaths: 21 Casualties Since September 12 by an Alleged Virus Attack

Ahmedabad, October 2: In a shocking news, almost 21 lions have died in Gujarat’s Gir Forest since September 12. According to a PTI news, the state government on Monday revealed that some of these deaths were due to a virus attack. The type of virus which has led to the death of some big cats in the only abode of Asiatic lions in the world is yet to be identified. It is one of the worst tragedy in the Gir forest. Gujarat's Gir Forest Reserve Where Asiatic Lions Thrive May Soon Become The Next Big Tourist Attraction; Know How.

Reportedly, officials have said that virus presence was found in at least four lions while six big cats were found to be infected with Protozoa Infection, spread by ticks. The seven lions whose death is being reported recently were captured from the Dalkhania Range of Gir forest between September 20 and 30 and were kept at a rescue centre.

The Forest department had launched the screening operation Dalkhania range to identify sick lions following the death of 11 big cats in Dalkhania and nearby Jashadhar range between September 12 and 19. During the operation, three more lions were found dead taking the toll to 14. The Forest department on Monday has revealed that the actual death toll has reached 21. The samples were analysed by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune.

Acording to a Hindu report, as a precautionary measure, all lions residing in Samardi area have been rescued and brought to Jamwala Rescue centre where they have been kept in isolation and actions are being taken to insulate them from the disease. In addition to this, the government is also importing a certain vaccine from the USA, so that precautionary measure can be taken on an immediate basis.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 02, 2018 11:14 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).