Gir lion cub deaths linked to suspected Babesia infection, Gujarat rules out outbreak
Two lion cubs in Gujarat's Gir National Park have died from a suspected Babesia infection, while three other lions died from natural causes and territorial disputes. The State Forest Department has stated that these deaths are isolated incidents and not indicative of a widespread outbreak. Veterinary teams are monitoring the situation, and officials emphasize that the overall health of the lion population remains stable.
- ▪Two lion cubs died due to a suspected Babesia infection in Gir National Park.
- ▪Three other Asiatic lions died from natural causes and territorial infighting.
- ▪The State Forest Department confirmed there is no indication of a widespread disease outbreak.
- ▪Veterinary teams have been deployed to monitor and manage suspected cases.
- ▪Gujarat is home to 891 Asiatic lions according to the latest census conducted in 2025.
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Two lion cubs have died in Gujarat’s Gir National Park region due to a suspected Babesia infection, while three other Asiatic lions died in separate incidents linked to natural causes and territorial infighting, according to the State Forest Department. Forest Minister Arjun Modhwadia said on Tuesday (May 26, 2026) that the deaths were isolated cases and there was no indication of any widespread disease outbreak in the Gir landscape, the only natural habitat of Asiatic lions. Addressing concerns over reports of a possible viral spread, the Minister clarified that only two deaths had been linked to suspected Babesia infection, while the remaining fatalities were due to other causes, including inter-lion conflict.
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