In a devastating turn of events, Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam has reported the deaths of 17 wild animals, as the park grapples with severe flooding caused by the overflowing Brahmaputra river.
According to park officials, the casualties include 11 hog deer, one rhino calf, an otter pup, a jungle cat, and two scops owls. Most of the deaths were attributed to drowning, with five hog deer succumbing to injuries sustained during rescue and treatment efforts.
The flooding, which has submerged nearly 80% of Kaziranga’s area this year, forced wildlife to seek refuge in higher grounds, including nearby highways. In response, authorities have been actively involved in rescuing distressed animals, having saved a total of 72 individuals over the past four days. These rescued animals include 63 hog deer, one Indian Hare, two otter puppies, two sambar deer, one jungle cat, and two scops owls.
Currently, 26 animals are receiving medical treatment, while 29 have been successfully relocated to safer areas within and around the park.
The situation remains critical, with ongoing efforts to monitor and safeguard animals that have been displaced from their natural habitats. Kaziranga officials have appealed to local residents to report any sightings of distressed wildlife, as these animals face additional threats such as dog attacks and human interference when venturing into nearby villages.
“In the BWD area of Kaziranga, distressed animals often leave the forests for nearby villages, seeking shelter. Sadly, they face threats like dog bites and harm from ill-intentioned individuals. We urge locals to report sightings and help protect our precious wildlife,” Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve emphasized on social media.
Sources By Agencies
