The alarming series of blackbuck deaths at the Kittur Rani Chennamma Nature Park in Belagavi continues, with yet another blackbuck reported dead on Monday. With this latest incident, the total death count has now reached 31, according to official sources.
Out of the 38 blackbucks (black antelopes) originally housed in the nature park, only 7 remain alive, and they are currently under treatment and strict medical observation.
The nature park is a major attraction for families and students. Locals fear that this tragic event could not only impact wildlife safety but also affect the tourism activity in the region.
Animal lovers and citizens have expressed deep anguish and urged the authorities to take appropriate action against the officials for their reported negligence due to which the precious animals were lost.
Initial investigations point towards a possible bacterial infection as the cause behind the mass deaths. A special veterinary expert team that arrived from Bannerghatta National Park, Bengaluru inspected the site and has sent biological samples for laboratory testing. The exact cause of death will be confirmed only after the lab reports are received.
The high number of deaths has raised serious concerns about the management and upkeep of the nature park. Environmental activists believe that the Forest Department must take immediate corrective action. There are increasing demands for better sanitation in the enclosure, improved water quality, and timely vaccination to prevent further disease outbreaks.
The blackbuck is a protected species, and such large-scale deaths are alarming. The possibility of a rapidly spreading infection cannot be ruled out. Experts have recommended isolating the remaining blackbucks to prevent further casualties.
