Four Spotted Deer Die at Davanagere Zoo, Suspected Haemorrhagic Septicaemia Outbreak
Four spotted deer died under suspicious circumstances at the Indira Priyadarshini Mini Zoo in Davanagere taluk. They succumbed to an infectious disease called haemorrhagic septicaemia. This is a highly fatal bacterial infection.
Zoo Temporarily Closed After Continuous Deaths
The zoo is now temporarily closed to the public. This closure started from January 19. It follows continuous deer deaths over the past four days.
The first spotted deer died on January 16. Two more deaths occurred on January 17. Another deer died on Sunday. Authorities decided to close the zoo to prevent further spread.
Forest Department Implements Safety Measures
The forest department acted quickly. They implemented several safety measures to protect the remaining deer. Experts from Belagavi and Bengaluru rushed to the zoo for treatment.
Authorities confirmed the situation is now under control. They are taking all necessary precautions.
Details About the Deer Population
The zoo housed a total of 170 deer. This included 94 females, 58 males, and 18 fawns. The outbreak now threatens this population.
Haemorrhagic septicaemia previously struck Belagavi's Kittur Rani Chennamma Mini Zoo in November 2025. That outbreak killed 31 blackbucks. The same disease has now spread to Davanagere mini zoo.
Immediate Actions Taken by Officials
Divisional officials immediately implemented standard operating procedures. They started prophylactic and preventive treatments for the remaining deer. Senior veterinarians and experts consulted on appropriate medical protocols.
Strict biosecurity measures are now enforced throughout the zoo. Authorities are continuously monitoring all animals.
Official Statements from Authorities
Deputy Forest Conservator Harshavardhan spoke about the situation. He said precautionary measures were taken immediately as per guidelines.
"The animal health advisory committee inspected the site," Harshavardhan stated. "We collected blood and organ samples and sent them to the laboratory. We need to determine the exact cause of death."
Based on symptoms, authorities suspect haemorrhagic septicaemia. They administered vaccinations to the remaining deer. Precautionary treatment started immediately.
Veterinarian Provides Treatment Details
Veterinarian Dr Satish explained the medical response. Local veterinarians conducted a post-mortem and reported pneumonia. When two more deer died, Dr Satish collected samples and sent them to the lab.
Lab tests revealed the infectious disease haemorrhagic septicaemia. Treatment started right away. The remaining deer are currently safe.
Dr Satish said treatment aims to prevent the disease from spreading to other deer. Workers applied lime powder and lime spray as preventive measures.
Ongoing Treatment Challenges
Treatment has continued for five to seven days. Medication is being provided in the food. Vaccination was not possible because the animals could not be caught.
Dr Satish warned the disease could spread from one animal to another. He said there was a possibility of losing five to ten more deer if the disease occurred.
Authorities remain vigilant. They continue to monitor the situation closely at the Davanagere zoo.
