Elephant Deaths in Bandhavgarh: Awaiting Forensic Answers

Forensic reports on the deaths of ten elephants at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve are pending and could clarify the causes. Current findings suggest neurotoxin cyclopiazonic acid from spoiled Kodo millet as the culprit, not poisoning. Monitoring of remaining elephants is ongoing.

In a developing story, forensic reports regarding the deaths of ten elephants at the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh are expected shortly. These reports are anticipated to elucidate the causes of these unfortunate incidents, according to a high-ranking forest official.

The samples, dispatched to the State Forensic Sciences Laboratory in Sagar and additional labs in Jabalpur and Nagpur, await completion. Preliminary findings from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Bareilly pointed to neurotoxin cyclopiazonic acid, derived from spoiled Kodo millet plants, as a potential cause, ruling out pesticide or insecticide poisoning.

Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) L Krishnamoorthy stated that the forest department continues to monitor the movements of the remaining elephants in the reserve, ensuring their safety. The attention is specifically on a baby elephant near Katni.

(With inputs from agencies.)