Ahmedabad: Fifteen Asiatic lions have been placed under observation following the death of five, including two cubs, due to Babesia infection. This marks the third outbreak of the disease in the past eight years.
Previous Outbreaks
The first significant outbreak occurred in 2018, when a combination of canine distemper virus (CDV) and Babesia killed 11 lions. In 2020, several lion deaths were recorded, some suspected to be linked to Babesia.
Current Situation
Forest department officials have launched an intensive drive to assess the extent of the infection. Fifteen lions have been isolated as suspected cases in three areas. Preliminary reports indicate no presence of CDV.
Jaipal Singh, the principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), said, “The lions have been isolated in three areas. At present, the preliminary report indicates that there is no CDV.” Samples are being tested at the Junagadh Veterinary College and may be sent to the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre if required.
A senior forest department officer stated that teams have been instructed to check on lions in their beats and report any problems immediately. Preliminary tests conducted at Sasan for CDV were negative. “The department has set up a CDV-testing facility, and all suspected deaths are subjected to scrutiny,” the officer added.
Cause and Preventive Measures
Officials described Babesia as a tick-borne parasitic disease affecting animals. Sources indicated that ticks may proliferate due to improper disposal and skinning of cattle carcasses, as well as a growing stray dog population in the region. Rising temperatures are also believed to increase tick activity.
As a preventive measure, large-scale deworming and tick-control treatment has been carried out on around 350 lions in the Tulsishyam, Khambha, and Dhari ranges.
Chief minister Bhupendra Patel has been informed about the lion deaths and the isolation of some lions for care, according to Vinod Rao, principal secretary of forests and environment.
Officials stated that intensive monitoring is being conducted on all lions within a 10-km radius of the Gir-Gadhada and Babariya areas. No signs of other diseases have been observed. In the revenue areas of Amreli and Bhavnagar districts, the forest department is conducting inspections of all lions and obtaining daily reports.
