The oldest hippopotamus at Veermata Jijabai Udyan (Byculla Zoo), Deva, died last week at the age of 35. The zoo officials said preliminary findings suggest death due to old age, while the detailed report is awaited.
Past deaths
Before Deva, the zoo had last reported a hippo death nearly five years ago. Earlier, five-year-old Shakti died of lung failure in 2009, while seven-year-old Jassi died of the same cause in 2010.
Remaining family
Following Deva’s death, the zoo is now left with three hippopotamuses — his companion Shilpa and their two offspring, a female born in 2010 and a male born in 2016.
Final rites
As per the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, Deva underwent a postmortem examination before being buried in the Pedak area. Officials said the process was carried out according to Central Zoo Authority norms.
