Home / Environment / Kaziranga National Park Loses Six Endangered Wild Water Buffaloes to Lightning
Kaziranga National Park Loses Six Endangered Wild Water Buffaloes to Lightning
31 Jul
Summary
- Carcasses of six wild water buffaloes found in Kaziranga National Park
- Preliminary investigation suggests lightning strike as likely cause of death
- Buffaloes were four females and two males, a significant loss for endangered species
On July 31st, 2025, the forest department of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam, India, made a grim discovery. Carcasses of six wild water buffaloes were found in the Mona Beel area of the park, during routine patrolling.
The deceased buffaloes, comprising four females and two males, were found lying close together, suggesting a sudden and collective fatal event. Sonali Ghosh, the park director, stated that based on the positioning of the carcasses, the health of the animals, and preliminary post-mortem findings, the cause of death was likely to be a lightning strike.
The forest department has formed a committee of wildlife experts and veterinarians to investigate the incident further and conduct detailed analysis to confirm the exact reason behind the deaths. They have also instructed field staff to remain vigilant, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season when natural threats like lightning strikes tend to increase.
The wild water buffalo is listed as an "endangered" species on the IUCN Red List, making each loss a matter of significant concern. Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the last remaining habitats for these majestic creatures, underscoring the importance of ongoing protection and monitoring efforts to safeguard their population against natural and human-induced threats.
