Chitwan National Park: 83 Wild Animals Died in One Year

Chitwan – A total of 83 wild animals died in Chitwan National Park during the last fiscal year, according to park officials. Among them, 45 deaths occurred due to natural causes.

Key Findings

• Rhinos: 28 rhinos died, with 18 from natural causes. Other causes included fights (3), electrocution (1), floods/landslides (2), and sinking in swamps (3). One case remains unexplained.

• Other Species:

  • 1 leopard and 5 elephants died naturally, while the cause of death for 2 elephants is unknown.

  • 1 tiger died in a fight, and another’s cause of death is unclear.

  • 12 spotted deer died naturally, while 2 were killed in road accidents.

  • 16 deer died due to wire traps (1) and dog attacks (15).

  • Other casualties included 3 sambar deer, 1 barking deer, 2 gharials, 2 blue bulls, 1 python, 1 fox, 1 bear, and 2 unidentified animals.

Rescue Efforts

During the same period, 135 animals were rescued, including:

• 4 rhinos, 2 tigers, 7 spotted deer, 3 turtles, and 37 snakes.

• Additionally, 61 monitor lizards, 11 mugger crocodiles, 2 gharials, 2 vultures, 1 porcupine, 1 fishing cat, and 2 other animals were saved.

The park continues to monitor wildlife threats while strengthening conservation efforts.