The Birsa Zoological Park in Ranchi is dealing with the loss of lion Shashank. The male hybrid lion, who had been battling health issues, died on Thursday. Veterinary care was provided by Dr. Omprakash Sahu, the zoo’s medical officer, with support from veterinary experts including Dr. Abhishek Kumar. A post-mortem was conducted by Dr. M.K. Gupta, Head of the Pathology Department at Ranchi Veterinary College, revealing cancer as the cause of death. Samples have been sent for further investigation. Dr. Gupta explained that hybrid animals, like Shashank, often have weaker immune systems, making them prone to infections. The average lifespan for this type of animal is between 15 and 16 years. Shashank was brought to the zoo in 2014 from the Bannerghatta Zoo in Bengaluru and was approximately 15 years old at the time of his passing. This follows the death of lioness Priyanka due to kidney failure in May 2024. The zoo is now home to a male lion, Abhay, and a lioness, Shabari.
