State tiger reserves yet to wake up to deadly virus .... A deadly virus is stalking the big cats, but the State Forest department is yet to wake up to the warning. Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) has reportedly affected tigers in the northern and eastern parts of the country, killing two cubs in Patna Zoo, a couple of months ago. Member secretary of National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Dr Rajesh Gopal, gauging the gravity of the situation, has written a ‘most urgent’ letter (dated January 13, 2014) to all the heads of the tiger conservation habitats. The letter states that in view of the threat to the wild tiger population from CDV, it is strongly advised that a special drive be launched in collaboration with the veterinary department of the state for sensitising field officers of tiger reserves and veterinary officers of the districts concerned. Despite the grave situation, the tiger reserves in the State are yet gear up to tackle the menace. Karnataka houses approximately 20 per cent of the total tiger population in the country in Bandipur, Nagarahole, Bhadra, Kudremukh and Anshi-Dandeli reserves. Recently, tigers have also been spotted at the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary. Tigers and lions are also kept in captivity in Bannerghatta and Mysore Zoo, which also need monitoring.
Posted on: Wed, 29 Jan 2014 02:59:50 +0000
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