The Lahore zoo recently witnessed the death of several rare animals, including a Gemsbok Antelope and newborns Nyala. In addition, a Sindh Ibex has undergone serious injuries due to intraspecic conflicts.
According to Punjab spokesperson Wildlife Department, two women from Nyala, who were imported from abroad, gave birth to the calves in a short interval.
However, the two newborns were extremely weak, unable to stand or breastfeed. Although they were transferred to the zoo hospital for intensive care and food, they did not survive, one that died Thursday and the other on Friday.
In a separate incident, one of the three gemsbok antelopes of the zoo died of a sudden illness, while another remains seriously ill and is under treatment. The deceased female Gemsbok, a species from arid African regions, has developed severe respiratory distress due to the cold.
The post Mortem report confirmed respiratory complications as a cause of death. Another Gemsbok would also be in critical condition, receiving medical care.
In addition, an pregnant ORYX SCIMITAR has undergone an emergency cesarean to save her life. While the mother survived the procedure, the born calf did not do so. Meanwhile, a Sindh Ibex underwent a serious eye injury as a result of one fight with another of its kind.
Sources suggest that the death of the calves of Nyala could be attributed to environmental changes and stress related to transport. The challenges of reinstalling pregnant animals and the impact of the stress of travel on their health are important concerns.
Zoo authorities have recognized the difficulties in carrying out medical examinations, including ultrasounds, on pregnant animals, as physical deduction can cause distress and potential damage to the fetus. The alternative sedation method also includes inherent risks.
Veterinary teams are currently assessing these incidents to develop better protocols for neonatal care and improve the survival rates of newborn animals at the zoo.
Earlier, the Punjab authorities decided to close the Lahore Safari zoo for 15 days from March 11 to carry out an maintenance and essential repairs, officials said.
The closure will end the annual improvements in construction work and infrastructure before the Eid holidays, a spokesman for the Fauna and Parks department in Punjab said.
