African Baboon Dies at Delhi Zoo, Third Animal Death in Recent Weeks

Death toll at National Zoological Park, popularly known as the Delhi Zoo. This is already the third within the last three weeks. Shivering and seemingly lethargic, an African baboon that was found was confirmed dead, the zoo later said. Soon after it had been shifted to the veterinary hospital of the Delhi Zoo, “Chintu” died by the end of the day.

Possible Cause of Cold Weather

The officials are yet to receive the final cause of death from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly. A senior Zoo official speaking on condition of anonymity, said that cold weather might have played a role in the illness of the animal. “The animal was showing symptoms of illness when it became less active and started shivering,” the official said.

Recent Deaths at Delhi Zoo

This is the third fatality within weeks after a white tiger cub and a one-horned rhinoceros died at the zoo. On January 2, another one-horned male, named Dharmendra, also succumbed to acute hemorrhagic enteritis, a potentially deadly intestinal condition caused by infections parasites, and toxins. As part of a breeding program, Dharmendra was added to the zoo in September 2024. There is only one female to continue the species now.

Earlier, a nine-month-old white tiger cub died from traumatic shock and acute pneumonia. The death of the cub was confirmed after a post-mortem examination.

Commitment of the Zoo to Animal Welfare

Delhi Zoo, established in 1959, is one of India’s premier zoological parks, housing over 96 species of animals and birds. The recent fatalities have raised concerns, though authorities remain committed to investigating the causes behind the incidents. After the death of “Chintu,” the zoo now has three remaining baboons from the original group of four.

Zoo director Sanjeet Kumar confirmed the situation and assured that the zoo is awaiting reports from IVRI for a detailed understanding of the cause of death. The zoo continues to monitor the health of all its residents carefully to ensure their well-being.