The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has announced that its investigations indicate malnutrition was the cause of the recent deaths of 19 hippos in the Mid-Zambezi Region.
The deaths, which occurred over a three-month period in the Sapi Safari Area and Chirundu, Mashonaland West Province, had prompted investigations by Zimparks.
In a statement on Thursday, ZimParks spokesperson Mr. Tinashe Farawo refuted speculation that anthrax was responsible for the deaths. He states that about 50% of the hippo population is in poor condition, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
“Following investigations to ascertain the cause of death of 19 hippos in the Mid Zambezi Region, preliminary investigations have shown that there were no gross abnormalities and no trace of Anthrax in any of the tested samples.”
“It is important to note that about 50% of the hippo population were in very poor body condition with pelvic bones and the spine showing prominently which is a sign of malnutrition or lack of adequate food.”
“While the recent rainfall in the region brings hope for the recovery of the hippo population, our findings strongly indicate that the majority of mortality cases up to this point are directly linked to severe nutritional deficits rather than infectious diseases.Our investigations have shown than the hippos were moving upto 10 km from their habitat in search of food. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and prioritize the health and welfare of the local wildlife,” he said.
