Ten Blackbucks Die from Bacterial Infection at Jharkhand Zoo

A sudden outbreak of a suspected bacterial infection has led to the deaths of at least ten blackbucks at the Tata Steel Zoological Park (TSZP) in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. The fatalities occurred between December 1 and December 6, 2025, with the last reported death occurring on December 6. The deputy director of TSZP, Dr. Naim Akhtar, confirmed the alarming situation, stating, “Ten blackbucks have died to date in the park.”

In response to the deaths, the zoo has sent the carcasses to Ranchi Veterinary College for examination to determine the precise cause. Preliminary findings suggest a case of Haemorrhagic Septicaemia, a bacterial disease caused by Pasteurella species. According to Dr. Pragya Lakra, assistant professor at the college’s veterinary pathology department, “A postmortem has been carried out. It is suspected to be H.S. (Haemorrhagic Septicaemia).” Further investigations are expected to continue on December 8.

The TSZP, which houses approximately 370 animals, originally had 18 blackbucks. With the recent deaths, only eight remain. The first death was noted on December 1, prompting the zoo to take immediate action. Saba Alam, the Jamshedpur Divisional Forest Officer, indicated that they collaborated with the veterinary college to analyze the situation. “We have informed the Central Zoo Authority regarding the deaths,” Alam added.

Symptoms of Haemorrhagic Septicaemia can escalate quickly, often resulting in sudden death. Dr. M.K. Gupta, chairman of the pathology department at Ranchi Veterinary College, explained, “Pasteurella is a bacterial disease which spreads in the body very fast and affects the lungs, causing sudden death. High fever, swelling in the neck, and diarrhea are some common symptoms.”

To mitigate the spread of the potential outbreak, the TSZP has instituted extensive precautionary measures. “Anti-bacterial treatment is underway, and the situation is under control now,” stated Dr. Akhtar.

In light of the situation at TSZP, the Bhagwan Birsa Biological Park in Ranchi has heightened its alert status. The park, which is home to 69 blackbucks, is taking proactive measures to prevent any possible spread of the infection. O.P. Sahu, a veterinarian at Birsa Zoo, reported that they are already implementing precautions, including spraying anti-viral and anti-bacterial treatments and regular bleaching of vulnerable areas.

Spread over 104 hectares in Ranchi’s Ormanjhi area, the Birsa Biological Park houses around 1,450 animals and birds from 83 different species. The rapid response from both zoos highlights the commitment to animal welfare and public health in the face of a potential outbreak.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on safeguarding the remaining blackbucks and ensuring that similar incidents do not occur in the future.