Summary
Authorities in Chiang Mai, Thailand, are investigating the deaths of 72 tigers at a tourist park called Tiger Kingdom Chiang Mai. The tigers died from an illness believed to be canine distemper virus. Officials are examining the cause and have temporarily closed the facility for cleaning.
Key Facts
- 72 tigers died at Tiger Kingdom Chiang Mai, a popular tourist attraction in Thailand.
- Local authorities are investigating the cause of death, suspecting canine distemper virus.
- Canine distemper virus is contagious and primarily affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, and can be fatal for big cats.
- The park had more than 240 tigers at the time of the incident.
- Park officials have cremated and buried the remains of the dead tigers.
- Some initial tests suggested the tigers might also have had feline parvovirus.
- Contaminated raw chicken meat was suspected as a potential source of the outbreak.
- Veterinarians and staff are under observation to monitor their health following exposure.
