Photo The Independent
Most of the tiger deaths occurred in private reserves where guests can interact closely with these predators. Preliminary tests showed that the animals were infected with feline distemper.
According to Somchuan Ratanamungklanon, head of Thailand's Department of Livestock, tigers do not have constant contact with humans, which makes early detection of the disease difficult: “By the time we notice problems, the disease may already be in an advanced stage.”
The department also suggested that the immune systems of captive tigers may be weakened because they have only been mating with each other. This could have led to increased susceptibility to the virus and a more rapid progression of the disease.
In response to the situation, the authorities temporarily closed the parks for two weeks, restricted access to the reserves, and began disinfecting enclosures and equipment. All surviving tigers have been placed in quarantine, as reported in the article.
