Seven leopard cubs died from virus at Bannerghatta National Park

Karnataka: Between August 22 and September 5, Bannerghatta National Park mourned the loss of seven leopard cubs to Feline panleukopenia, a viral disease typically transmitted through cats. Of the park's 25 cubs, 15 were infected, resulting in seven fatalities. One lion cub also contracted the virus but is now recovering. The outbreak began in the safari areas on August 22, affecting four cubs there and three in the rescue center. All the deceased cubs had been vaccinated, indicating possible vaccine failure or viral mutation. Authorities suspect the virus may have originated from animal keepers or wild-rescued cubs with uncertain health histories. This marks the park's first Feline panleukopenia outbreak.