Eight lion cubs die in Gujarat from suspected Babesia infection; containment measures initiated
Eight lion cubs have died this week in Gujarat's Gir Somnath and Amreli districts due to suspected Babesia infection, a parasitic disease transmitted by ticks. Gujarat Forest Minister Arjun Modhwadia confirmed the deaths and stated that disease-control measures have been intensified around the Gir wildlife sanctuary. Large-scale tick-removal operations have been launched, and lions within a 10-km radius of affected areas are being isolated. Officials are treating the infection as a "potential threat" due to its rapid transmission possibility. Samples from the dead cubs have been sent for examination to confirm the cause of death.
Key Points
- Eight lion cubs died in Gir Somnath and Amreli districts of Gujarat from suspected Babesia infection.
- Babesia is a parasitic disease transmitted through ticks, causing weakness, fever, coughing, and nasal discharge.
- The Forest Department has intensified disease-control measures, including large-scale tick-removal operations.
- Lions within a 10-km radius of the affected areas are being isolated to prevent further spread.
- Samples have been sent to the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre for confirmation of the infection.
Exam Facts
- Eight lion cubs died in Gir Somnath and Amreli districts, Gujarat.
- The suspected cause of death is Babesia infection.
- Gujarat Forest Minister is Arjun Modhwadia.
- The last census in 2025 recorded 891 Asiatic lions in Gujarat.
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