Mumbai: Rescued Leopard ‘Bittu’ Dies After Prolonged Illness at Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Bittu, a young leopard rescued from the Yeoor forest area in 2019, passed away after a prolonged illness at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, where he had been living under the care of forest officials and veterinarians. Rescued as a vulnerable cub, Bittu had grown up within the park’s rescue centre, becoming a familiar figure among the staff who closely monitored his health and development.

Around six years old at the time of his death, Bittu had been diagnosed with a serious condition called Polycystic Kidney Disease, a disorder that causes the formation of multiple cysts in the kidneys, impairing their function.

Despite dedicated medical attention, including regular check-ups, diagnostic tests, and treatment interventions, Bittu’s condition gradually deteriorated over several months. Veterinary examinations, including ultrasound scans, revealed the progressive damage caused by the disease. Eventually, the illness led to multiple organ failure, and Bittu succumbed to complications related to the kidney disorder. A post-mortem confirmed the severity of the damage, and tissue samples have been sent for further analysis to better understand the progression of the disease.

Bittu’s death has been a significant loss for the wildlife community and park staff, highlighting both the fragility of rescued wild animals and the challenges involved in managing chronic diseases in non-domestic species. His life and care underscore the critical role that facilities like Sanjay Gandhi National Park play in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation, while also serving as a reminder of the limits of medical intervention for wild animals suffering from serious illnesses.