Rare animal deaths continue at Lahore Zoo, but new births offer hope

Lahore Zoo's tragic animal deaths continue with a Markhor, James’ Buck, and Sable Antelope among latest losses

The tragic streak of rare and valuable animal deaths at Lahore Zoo persists, with the latest casualties including a female Markhor, a James’ Buck, and a Sable Antelope. Meanwhile, a white tigress underwent a successful surgery for a fractured leg, and the birth of new animals has provided some solace to the zoo administration.

A female James’ Buck, recently imported from abroad, succumbed to an infection on Tuesday after battling health complications for weeks due to cold weather.

Despite ongoing treatment, the animal could not survive. Just two days earlier, a female Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, suddenly passed away. Similarly, a Sable Antelope also died, adding to the zoo's recent string of losses.

Lahore Zoo Director Sheikh Muhammad Zahid stated that the Markhor appeared to be in perfect health before its sudden demise. The carcass was sent to the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences for a post-mortem examination.

Initial findings suggest a possible heart attack, but the final cause of death will only be determined after a detailed report. Meanwhile, the James’ Buck’s death has been attributed to an infection.

In another incident, a female white tiger—born with a congenital limb deformity—suffered a severe leg and knee fracture after accidentally falling into a trench in her enclosure.

Veterinary surgeons from the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences successfully performed an operation, inserting metal plates into the tigress's leg. However, she is expected to undergo another surgery for full recovery. The zoo administration remains hopeful for her rehabilitation.

Amidst these losses, there was some positive news as well. The zoo witnessed new births, bringing a glimmer of joy. Three Sindh Ibexes and an Oryx calf were born, offering a moment of relief to the grieving administration.