The Lahore Zoo has recently witnessed the death of several rare animals, including an antílope gemsbok and newborn nyala calves. In addition, a Sindh Ibex has suffered serious injuries due to intraespecies conflict.
According to the spokesman of the Wildlife Department of Punjab, two women from Nyala, who were imported from abroad, gave birth to calves in a short interval.
However, both newborns were extremely weak, unable to be or nurse. Despite being transferred to the Zoological Hospital for intensive care and food, they did not survive, and one died on Thursday and the other on Friday.
In a separate incident, one of the three antílopes of Gemsbok in the zoo succumbed to a sudden disease, while another remains critically ill and is under treatment. The late Gemsbok, a native species of African arid regions, developed severe respiratory anguish due to cold weather.
The post Mortem report confirmed respiratory complications as the cause of death. According to reports, another Gemsbok is also in critical condition, receiving medical care.
In addition, a pregnant cimitar Oryx underwent an emergency caesarean section to save her life. While the mother survived the procedure, the calf is not born. Meanwhile, a Sindh Ibex suffered a serious eye injury after one fight with another of its kind.
The sources suggest that the death of Nyala calves could be attributed to environmental changes and transport -related stress. The challenges of relocating pregnant animals and the impact of travel on their health are still significant concerns.
The zoo authorities recognized the difficulties in performing medical exams, including ultrasounds, in pregnant animals, since physical restriction can cause anguish and potential damage to the fetus. The alternative sedation method also carries inherent risks.
Currently, veterinary teams are evaluating these incidents to develop better neonatal care protocols and improve survival rates of newborn animals in the zoo.
Previously, the authorities in Punjab decided to close the Lahore Safari Zoo for 15 days from March 11 to carry out maintenance and essential repairs, authorities said.
The closure will allow the annual construction improvements and infrastructure improvements to be completed before EID holidays, said a spokesman for the Silvestre life and Punjab parks.
