The Mini Zoo of Sambalpur, popularly known as the ‘Deer Park’ lost its only leopard on Saturday morning due to old-age ailments.
“The leopard was more than 15 years of age and was suffering from neuro problems,” said Sudeep Kumar Nayak, DFO (Hirakud wildlife division) of Sambalpur. “This is perhaps the highest longevity for any of its kind to live in captivity since the life span of big cats is 12-14 years,” he added.
lone leopard lincoln was the centre of attraction for the visitors. On February 4, 1999, the Forest staffs of Redhakhol rescued lincoln when it was only two-month old and handed it over to the park authorities.
Thought lincoln became a permanent member of the zoo, to his dismay, neither the Forest staffs nor the zoo authorities could arrange a female partner for him.
Three days before, lincoln developed sickness and the veterinary surgeons and forest officials were providing him all treatment and care. “During these three days, lincoln stopped taking food and moving. And finally he died on Saturday morning,” DFO Nayak said.
After post mortem conducted on the body by veterinary surgeons in the presence of senior Forest officers, lincoln was cremated in a corner of the Zoo. “We are trying to bring a leopard couple to the park,” said Ml Sharma, Ranger of the park.