The samples of viscera, portions of skin and bones of the tiger that was found dead in the limits of Shettyhalli wildlife sanctuary on April 19 will be sent to Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, for tests.
It may be mentioned here that the carcass of the badly decomposed tiger was found by forest guards in Shettyhalli sanctuary limits on April 19. The postmortem was performed by veterinary doctors from Departments of Forest and Wildlife and experts from Veterinary College, Shivamogga, following which the body was cremated.
The tiger was around 15 years old and prima facie age-related illness appeared to be the reason for the death. The sex of the dead animal could not be ascertained as body was badly decomposed. The department has provided necessary information to the office of Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and National Tiger Conservation Authority about the incident.
Vinay S., senior veterinary officer, Shivamogga Wildlife Division, told The Hindu that it appeared as if the animal had died 15 days ago. To ascertain the cause of death and the sex of the animal, relevant samples would be sent to CCMB, Hyderabad, on Monday for tests, he added.
