Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Apr 8: In a concerning development from Goa, the Bondla Zoo, nestled within the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary and renowned as the state’s only zoo, has been temporarily closed to visitors after a suspected viral infection claimed the lives of three civet cats and two jungle cats.

According to senior forest department officials, the tragic deaths occurred between March 6 and 9. However, the precautionary order to quarantine the zoo premises was issued only on March 30, following guidelines laid down by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). Consequently, the zoo has remained closed to the public since April 1.

“We have sent samples to a Bhopal-based laboratory to ascertain the nature of the viral infection. There have been no further fatalities since, but we’re being extremely cautious,” confirmed Kamal Datta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.

As per the CZA's directives, if more than one animal dies, a 15-day observation and quarantine period is mandatory. Zoo authorities have since implemented stringent safety measures to prevent the infection from spreading further, including relocating vulnerable animals to isolated enclosures and equipping staff with protective gear like face masks.

Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane said, “Three civet cats and two jungle cats unfortunately succumbed to the illness. The remaining animals are stable and are being closely monitored round the clock.”

The zoo initially housed four civet cats and seven jungle cats. Post-incident, only one civet cat and five jungle cats remain. Authorities are facing difficulties in testing the last surviving civet cat, which has grown visibly distressed and is refusing to let anyone approach.

While the zoo remains shut, other sections of the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary are still open to nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and trekkers. However, many tourists have expressed disappointment at being denied entry to the zoo.

Officials emphasized that the zoo will reopen only after receiving negative test results from the laboratory and a go-ahead from the concerned health and wildlife authorities. For now, conservation and containment remain top priorities for the department.