KATHMANDU, JULY 24

Chitwan National Park (CNP) recorded 83 wildlife deaths in the fiscal year 2081/82 BS, with natural causes accounting for the majority.

According to CNP Information Officer Abinash Thapamagar, 28 rhinos died-18 due to natural causes, three in fights, one from electrocution, two in floods and landslides, three in marshes, and one from an unidentified cause.

The park also reported the natural deaths of five elephants and a leopard, while the causes behind the deaths of two elephants remain unknown. One tiger died in a territorial fight, and the cause of another tiger's death is yet to be determined.

Among other species, 12 spotted deer died of natural causes, two in road accidents, one in a wire trap, and 16 following dog attacks. Additional fatalities included three other deer, one barking deer (Ratuwa), two gharial crocodiles, two nilgai, a python, a jackal, a bear, and two unidentified animals.

Meanwhile, 135 wild animals were rescued during the same period, including four rhinos, two tigers, seven spotted deer, three turtles, 37 snakes, 61 pythons, 11 mugger crocodiles, two gharial crocodiles, two vultures, one iguana, and three others.