Davangere, 19 Jan

Four spotted deer have died at the Indira Priyadarshini Mini Zoo near Anagodu in Davangere division over the past three days, prompting authorities to temporarily close the facility.

According to officials, the first death was reported on 16 January, followed by two more on 17 January. Another deer died on 18 January, taking the toll to four.

The mini zoo houses 170 spotted deer — 94 females, 58 males and 18 fawns.

Following the initial death, forest officials immediately implemented Standard Operating Procedures.

After the subsequent deaths, members of the Animal Health Advisory Committee inspected the site and sent blood samples and organs for laboratory analysis to determine the exact cause. Based on preliminary symptoms, the committee suspects a contagious bacterial disease, Hemorrhagic Septicaemia (HS).

Forest Department officials have sanitised the zoo, enforced strict biosecurity measures and begun prophylactic and preventive treatment for the remaining animals in consultation with senior veterinarians. Continuous monitoring has been put in place.

Officials in Davangere are also in touch with their counterparts in Belagavi, where 31 of 38 blackbucks died in November 2025 due to a highly contagious bacterial outbreak, to prevent any possible spread.

Deputy Conservator of Forests Harshavardhan said the zoo would remain closed until further orders and urged public cooperation.

Meanwhile, the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden has taken winter precautions, installing heaters, stubble and high-powered bulbs for animals