Daijiworld Media Network – Belagavi

Belagavi, Nov 16: The alarming spate of blackbuck deaths at the Kittur Chennamma Mini Zoo near Bhutaramanahatti in Belagavi taluk has continued unabated, with one more blackbuck dying on Saturday, taking the overall toll to 29. The episode has triggered concern among officials and wildlife watchers alike. On November 13, the zoo recorded eight deaths, followed by a staggering 20 fatalities in a single day yesterday.

Veterinary officer Dr Chandrashekhar confirmed that comprehensive samples — including kidney, heart, liver and blood — had been collected from the dead blackbucks. “These have been dispatched to the laboratory, and we expect the report by Tuesday,” he said. “Once it arrives, we will submit the findings to Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre.”

See Full Page