Two Bengal tiger cubs at Indonesia’s Bandung Zoo have died from a viral infection, a conservation official reported on Friday. The male cubs, named Huru and Hara, were born last July to a tigress named Jelita, who remains healthy.
A Deadly Virus
The cubs were infected with the Feline Panleukopenia virus (FPV) at birth, according to the conservation agency of West Java province. This virus can cause illness in both wild and domestic cats, and is particularly dangerous for young animals. Hara died on the 24th, two days after showing symptoms, and Huru died two days after that despite veterinary intervention, agency spokesman Eri Mildrayana stated.
Prior to their deaths, Huru and Hara exhibited symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, and lethargy. The US National Institutes of Health identifies FPV as also being known as “cat plague” or “feline distemper,” and notes it typically affects felines that are unvaccinated or improperly vaccinated.
Concerns and Response
Bandung mayor Muhammad Farhan expressed sadness over the loss of the cubs, stating on Instagram that the situation is “an important lesson” and that improving biosecurity is a necessary step.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature reports that Bengal tigers are an endangered species, with fewer than 4,000 remaining in the wild, primarily in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.
Looking Ahead
the Bandung Zoo will review and strengthen its animal health protocols in light of this incident. Further investigation into the source of the FPV outbreak could be undertaken, though authorities were unable to be reached for comment by AFP. A longer-term outcome could be increased scrutiny of the zoo’s operations, given past concerns raised by activists in 2017 regarding the welfare of sun bears.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Feline Panleukopenia virus?
According to the US National Institutes of Health, Feline Panleukopenia virus is also referred to as “cat plague” or “feline distemper” and usually occurs in unvaccinated or improperly vaccinated captive felines.
What was the condition of the tigress, Jelita?
Jelita, the mother of the cubs, remains in good health.
Has the Bandung Zoo faced criticism in the past?
In 2017, activists demanded the zoo’s closure after skeletal sun bears were pictured begging for food from visitors and eating their own dung.
What role does biosecurity play in protecting endangered species in captive environments?
