Sambalpur: Tragedy struck the Sambalpur Zoo as the beloved female leopard, Rani, passed away on the night of December 4, 2024, despite undergoing treatment for a severe uterine infection. The seven-year-old leopard, a star attraction of the zoo, succumbed to health complications at approximately 9:13 PM.
Rani had shown signs of illness earlier in the day, including vomiting and the discharge of pus from her reproductive organs. The zoo’s veterinary team promptly initiated treatment, administering three injections of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs at 6 PM. However, her condition deteriorated rapidly, with respiratory distress and bleeding from the mouth reported later in the evening.
The post-mortem report identified the probable cause of death as closed pyometra, a critical uterine infection that likely led to acute pyemia (systemic infection) and culminated in a cardiac arrest. Tests to determine Rani’s pregnancy status had been scheduled for the third week of December, 45 days after her observed mating period.
Rani was introduced to a male leopard named Raja in November 2024. Raja, an eight-year-old rescued from Nuapada in 2023, had a violent history of killing two humans before being rehabilitated at Sambalpur Zoo. After eight months of quarantine and medical treatment, Raja was cleared for display in the zoo and shared an enclosure with Rani starting in November.
Their interactions were closely monitored through 24/7 CCTV surveillance, routine health check-ups by veterinarians, and an observation team. Mating was observed during the second week of November, raising hopes for potential offspring.
The male leopard, Raja, remains in good health and is under vigilant observation. The zoo authorities have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Rani and are committed to maintaining stringent health and safety measures for the remaining animals.
The Sambalpur Zoo team, along with veterinary experts, plans to review its protocols to ensure better prevention and early detection of similar health issues in the future. Rani’s untimely death has left a void not only among the zoo staff but also among visitors who admired her majestic presence.