YAMUNANAGAR: Wildlife and forest authorities in Haryana’s Yamunanagar district have been put on alert after an eight-month-old leopard died in Kalesar National Park, with post-mortem findings indicating infection with the highly contagious Canine Distemper Virus (CDV).Officials said the cub was rescued in a critical condition and taken for treatment, but died before veterinarians could begin medical intervention.A three-member team comprising Dr Rahul (Chhachhrauli), Dr Vikrant (Sadhaura) and Dr Prashant Tiwari conducted the post-mortem examination.According to Dr Satish Dhaniya of the Animal Husbandry Department, the examination revealed extensive internal damage. The leopard’s liver and heart were severely affected, internal bleeding was found in the intestines, and multiple abnormalities were detected in the respiratory tract.Wildlife expert Dr Sukhbir Nain said the leopard was suspected to have been infected with Canine Distemper Virus, a disease commonly transmitted by infected dogs and other wild carnivores. He said the cub may have contracted the virus after preying on an infected dog or through direct contact with an infected animal.Visceral samples have been sent to a laboratory in Hisar for detailed analysis, and officials said the exact cause of death would be confirmed after laboratory test results are received.Following standard wildlife protocols, the leopard’s carcass was cremated and buried.The death of the young leopard has raised concerns among wildlife and forest officials, prompting heightened surveillance across Kalesar National Park. Field staff have been directed to immediately report any wild animal showing signs of illness or unusual behaviour.Officials are also closely monitoring other leopards and wildlife species in the park to detect any possible spread of infection.Veterinary experts noted that infected wild animals often isolate themselves naturally, which may help reduce transmission. However, they stressed that continuous surveillance remains essential.Canine Distemper Virus is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects dogs but can also infect jackals and wild felines, including leopards and tigers. The virus is widespread globally and has caused significant mortality among domestic dogs as well as several wild carnivore species.Conservation experts have identified CDV as an emerging threat to large carnivores. Since 2003, multiple fatal infections have been reported among Amur tigers in Russia’s Far East, raising concerns about the virus’s impact on endangered wildlife populations.Kalesar National Park, located in the foothills of the Shivalik range in Haryana’s Yamunanagar district, shares its boundaries with Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The Yamuna River forms its eastern boundary.Named after the historic Kalesar (Shiva) Temple within the protected area, the park is home to dense sal and khair forests, grasslands, and a rich diversity of wildlife.
