Bhubaneswar, Sept. 22 (UDN): Concern has been raised at Nandankanan Zoological Park following the deaths of two newly arrived meerkats and a serious injury to a female zebra that was recently brought to the zoo.
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The animals were among 58 exotic animals belonging to 14 species that arrived at Nandankanan from Vantara in Gujarat a few days ago, according to sources.
The exact cause of death of the two meerkats has not yet been established. Zoo authorities are expected to determine the cause after post-mortem examinations.
Another meerkat from the newly introduced group is reportedly in serious condition and is currently under observation and treatment by the zoo’s veterinary team.
Cause of Meerkat Deaths Yet to Be Established
The deaths have prompted veterinary teams to closely monitor the health of the other newly introduced animals.
Officials are awaiting the post-mortem findings to establish whether the deaths were linked to illness, acclimatisation or any other factor. No definitive cause has been announced so far.
The health condition of the remaining meerkats is also being monitored as part of the zoo’s precautionary measures.
Female Zebra Sustains Neck Injury
Meanwhile, a newly arrived female zebra has suffered a deep injury to its neck and is undergoing treatment.
The circumstances leading to the injury have not been conclusively established. One possibility being examined is that the animal may have sustained the injury after coming into contact with the enclosure barrier. However, this has not been officially confirmed.
The injured zebra remains under close observation, with the zoo’s veterinary team providing treatment.
Veterinary Teams Monitor Newly Introduced Animals
The deaths of the two meerkats and the injury to the zebra have brought attention to the health and acclimatisation of the animals recently introduced at Nandankanan.
Veterinary personnel are continuing to monitor the affected animals, while further details are expected after the post-mortem examination of the deceased meerkats.
Nandankanan authorities had not issued an official comment on the developments at the time of reporting.