Lead detected in grass fed to zebras at Gazipur safari park

Members of the medical board, formed to find the cause of 11 zebras' deaths, found lead in the grass (fed to the animals) in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park in Gazipur.

This has happened due to air pollution, said Bangladesh Agriculture University Professor Dr Md Abu Hadi Nur Ali Khan, a member of the board.

The findings were revealed during the investigation into the deaths of 11 zebras at the Safari Park in Gazipur's Sreepur upazila.

He said, "The lead was found during lab test. Adjacent areas of the park have industries and heavy traffic."

"Eight out of the 11 zebras died because of air pollution and cold during winter. Reasons behind deaths of the rest could not be confirmed yet," he added.

Besides, inbreeding could be another cause, Prof Abu Hadi Nur Ali Khan said.

The issues were identified in the investigation report, he said, adding that there is one veterinarian at the park which is inadequate.

The lab report has been submitted to the ministry concerned and a meeting will be held between the investigation committee, formed by the ministry, and the medical board tomorrow.