Gir lion cub deaths linked to suspected Babesia infection, Gujarat rules out outbreak

Image for the purpose of representation only. | Photo Credit: Vijay Soneji

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. Babesia is a tick-borne parasite that can affect wild animals, leading to symptoms such as weakness and respiratory distress. Officials said veterinary teams have been deployed across the forest to monitor and manage suspected cases. “The forest department is actively working on surveillance, sample collection and treatment. Measures are also being taken to control tick infestations among wild animals,” the Minister said, adding that the situation was under control and did not warrant public concern. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Head of Forest Force (additional charge) Jaipal Singh said the deaths were part of natural ecological dynamics and not indicative of any abnormal trend. He noted that survival rates among cubs in the wild are typically low, though enhanced monitoring and veterinary intervention have helped reduce mortality in recent years. According to him, the two cubs that died were very young and located at different sites within Gir. Mr. Singh further said one lion died due to infighting, while two others succumbed to natural causes, reiterating that there was no evidence of an epidemic or disease outbreak. He added that such incidents can occur because of low immunity among cubs and natural pressures within the ecosystem. Gujarat had earlier witnessed a major lion mortality event in 2018, when 11 lions died within a month due to a combination of canine distemper virus and protozoal infection. According to the latest census conducted in 2025, Gujarat is home to 891 Asiatic lions.

Published - May 26, 2026 07:19 pm IST