KATHMANDU: A rhino was found dead in Nawalparasi's Mukundapur VDC today.

Local residents informed the Armed Police Force about the animal's death this morning, authorities at Chitwan National Park said.

"The dead rhino was a male of about 15 years in age. It was electrocuted on a private field in Mukundapur -5," said Narendra Babu Man Pradhan, Chief Warden, Chitwan National Park.

This is the seventh rhino killed in last 10 months. Three others were poached in September and five died naturally in the period. The CNP reported no rhino death in the preceding four months.

"We are yet to ascertain whether the animal was poached," added Pradhan.

Live electric wires are aplenty in the area, put up by locals to keep the beasts off. The rhino was buried after preparing a public enquiry report. The animal's horn was taken off by CNP officials before burial.

"We hope to find more

information with additional investigation," added Pradhan. According to a 2008

census, Chitwan is home to 408 rhinos.