Six lions in Gir forest die by Babesia infection; 17 under observation

New Delhi ( Vivek Ojha) : At least six lions have died from Babesia infections and 17 are under observation for the tick-borne disease that has struck the Gir forest in recent weeks, forest officials said on Thursday.

The infected lions are under observation of the rescue teams at three locations - Jamvala Rescue Centre, Jasadhar Rescue Centre and a field site, depending on their health condition and need of veterinary care.

These include sub-adult males and females mostly in the age group of 1 and 2 years, along with one male of approximately 2-3 years in Gir West. In a separate case, one cub died from infighting.

The mortality figure has increased to six. Earlier four deaths were reported including two cubs and two sub-adults. Two more cubs died yesterday. Also we have kept 17 lions under observation,” Jaipal Singh, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest , Gujarat told.

What is Babesia infection :

Babesia infection (Babesiosis) is a tick-borne, malaria-like parasitic disease caused by microscopic protozoa of the genus Babesia. It primarily attacks and destroys an animal's red blood cells. The disease affects a wide range of domestic and wild mammals—including cattle, dogs, horses, and Asiatic lions—and is transmissible to humans.