Delhi Zoo's Lone African Elephant Dies At 29, Probe Ordered
Shankar, the only African elephant at the Delhi Zoo, has died and an investigation has been ordered to determine the cause of death, officials said on Thursday.
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The 29-year-old male African elephant Shankar passed away Wednesday evening at approximately 8 pm. (Representational)
New Delhi:
Officials announced Thursday that Shankar, Delhi Zoo's only African elephant, has died and an investigation has been launched to determine the death's cause.
The male African elephant, aged 29, died Wednesday evening around 8 pm.
According to a statement from the Delhi Zoo, "Shankar showed no signs of illness or unusual behavior until September 16. On the morning of September 17, however, it was noted that Shankar consumed fewer leaves and grasses than usual and experienced mild diarrhea, although his intake of concentrate, fruits and vegetables remained normal".
The National Zoological Park's (NZP) veterinary team provided medical care and kept Shankar under constant observation by zoo personnel, as stated in the release.
Around 7:25 pm, Shankar suddenly collapsed in his enclosure and died despite emergency treatment efforts, according to the statement.
In a press release, the Delhi Zoo expressed: "The National Zoological Park, New Delhi, regretfully announces the passing of its beloved 29-year-old African elephant, Shankar, on September 17, 2025, at 8 pm." "Shankar embodied strength, wisdom and affection. Many zoo staff members had formed emotional bonds with him. His absence will be profoundly felt by the zoo team, visitors and the entire conservation community," the statement continued.
An investigation has been ordered to determine the cause of death. Experts from IVRI Bareilly are conducting a post-mortem examination. A health advisory committee and a representative from the Union Environment Ministry will participate in the investigation.
Shankar, gifted to India from Zimbabwe, had been a valued resident of the Delhi Zoo for 27 years. The elephant arrived at the facility in November 1998 and was appreciated by staff for its gentle temperament and impressive presence.
Since 2005, following the death of a female African elephant named Bambai, Shankar had lived in solitude.
Throughout the years, Shankar experienced recurring health challenges related to musth - a condition characterized by dramatically increased testosterone levels in bull elephants, resulting in aggressive and unpredictable behavior.
During musth periods, the elephant was frequently chained to control its aggression. In 2023, Shankar required sedation and restraint after breaking through a section of its enclosure wall, injuring both itself and a zookeeper.
In 2024, Shankar experienced another musth episode. The elephant was kept chained for extended periods between July and September, reportedly resulting in chain-burn injuries.
Following media reports in October, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) suspended the Delhi Zoo's membership, citing concerns regarding Shankar's treatment.