8 lion cubs in Gir died due to heat, not virus: Gujarat Forest Minister Modhwadia

Eight Asiatic lion cubs that died recently in the Gir landscape succumbed to illnesses linked to reduced immunity caused by extreme heat and not a viral infection, Gujarat Forest Minister Arjun Modhwadia said.

The minister said laboratory tests and investigations conducted by the Forest Department had ruled out a viral outbreak as the cause of the deaths in the Una and Girgadhada areas of the Gir region.

Addressing the issue, Modhwadia said 17 lion cubs had fallen ill in sanctuary areas spread across Amreli and Junagadh districts due to heat-related health complications that weakened their immunity.

“Of the 17 cubs that were undergoing treatment, 12 have recovered and have been released back into the forest. Five cubs remain under observation and will be released after their health improves,” he said.

The deaths of the cubs had triggered concern over the health of the Asiatic lion population in Gir, the only natural habitat of the species in the world.

Following reports of the deaths, the Forest Department launched a detailed inquiry and conducted laboratory examinations to ascertain the cause of the illness affecting the cubs.

The minister had earlier visited the affected Jasadhar area in Una and parts of the Babaria range in Girgadhda and directed officials to investigate the deaths and ensure treatment of the sick cubs.

Modhwadia said the illness was linked to a decline in immunity caused by extreme temperatures, making the cubs vulnerable to disease.

He also clarified that the death of a pregnant lioness reported during the same period was not caused by a viral infection but by other complications.

The Forest Department has initiated measures to disinfect affected areas and strengthen disease-prevention efforts to safeguard the remaining lion population in the Gir landscape, which is home to around 600 Asiatic lions, officials said.