Delhi Zoo Mourns Mysterious Death of 11-Year-Old Hyena

On October 13, 2025, an 11-year-old female hyena died at the Delhi Zoo under "mysterious" circumstances. The zoo, which is currently closed due to avian influenza concerns, is now left with only two hyenas, a male and a female.

The hyena was found lying in its den within the enclosure, and the body was retrieved and sent to the zoo hospital, where it was discovered that the animal had already passed away. According to a zoo official, the hyena did not come out of its den for three to four days, and it was only when flies and a foul smell were detected that the keepers discovered the animal had died.

The zoo director, Sanjeet Kumar, stated that the cause of death is still unknown and that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the actual cause. However, a second zoo official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, alleged that there was mismanagement in the monitoring of the hyenas, particularly at night when food is provided to them.

The Delhi Zoo has been closed since August 30, 2025, following multiple bird deaths due to avian influenza. While no positive samples have been reported since September 2, the zoo has announced that it will continue to collect more samples and will not reopen before October 30.