Photo: ca.news.yahoo.com
Rodent Virus Claims Life of Delhi's Sole African Elephant, Officials Report
Delhis only African elephant, Shankar, died from a rodent-borne virus, highlighting health risks in animal care at the National Zoological Park Delhi.
- Shankar, the 29-year-old male African elephant at the National Zoological Park Delhi, passed away on 17 September due to a rodent-borne virus.
- An autopsy revealed that Shankar tested positive for the encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), known for causing fatal heart inflammation.
- The death of Shankar Dayal Sharma raises concerns regarding wildlife health management and zoonotic diseases within Indian zoos, particularly affecting isolated animals.
Why It Matters
The loss of Shankar underscores the importance of monitoring and managing health risks in zoo populations. It also raises awareness about the potential transmission of viruses from rodents to wildlife, emphasizing the need for improved veterinary care and preventive measures in animal facilities.