Introduction

KATHMANDU — A recent study has unveiled a shocking trend: the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is likely infecting and causing the deaths of common leopards (Panthera pardus) in Nepal. Genetic evidence collected from deceased leopards indicates a clear link between the virus and the fatalities occurring across the country.

Groundbreaking Research

While earlier findings had confirmed the exposure of leopards to CDV through the presence of antibodies in their blood, this latest research, led by veterinarian Amir Sadaula from the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), provides definitive proof that the leopards are succumbing to infections rather than simply having been previously exposed to the virus. "This study is groundbreaking as it marks the first identification of live CDV in common leopards," Sadaula stated.

Challenges Facing Leopards

Leopards are classified as a vulnerable species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, facing challenges such as habitat loss and conflict with humans, particularly in rural areas. Disturbingly, incidents of fatal encounters between leopards and humans have been reported, such as the tragic deaths of 11 children in Tanahun over four years, raising concerns about retaliatory killings of these magnificent animals.

Research Findings

In the study, researchers gathered tissue samples from leopards showing CDV symptoms, including respiratory issues and seizures, in the central and western regions of Nepal. They sequenced the virus’s genetic material from these samples, revealing that the strain is of the Asia-5 lineage, originally linked to domestic dogs.

The Highly Contagious CDV

CDV is notorious for its highly contagious nature, affecting various mammals. Infected animals typically exhibit severe symptoms like fever, respiratory distress, and neurological issues, and while some can recover, many do not survive the infection. Past outbreaks of CDV have also had devastating impacts, including the death of nearly three dozen Asiatic lions in Gujarat, emphasizing the severity of the threat to wildlife.

Implications of the Study

The implications of this study are significant. According to Martin Gilbert from Cornell University, genetic sequencing of the virus helps identify potential sources of infection and informs the design of control measures. Interestingly, the research found multiple sub-lineages of CDV in various regions of Nepal, suggesting the leopards may have contracted the virus from different sources, likely due to their varied diets that include feasible exposure to pack-hunting domestic dogs or infected wildlife.

The Role of Feral Dogs

Unfortunately, the situation is worsened by the lack of strict dog ownership laws in Nepal, which leads to rampant abandonment and creates feral dog populations. These dogs not only pose a direct predation risk to wildlife but also serve as reservoirs for diseases like CDV.

Call for Action

Lamichhane, a co-author of the study, emphasized the necessity of vaccinating domestic dogs to mitigate the spread of the virus. With the evidence mounting against CDV and its dire effects on leopards, conservationists and wildlife officials are urged to take immediate action while recognizing that controlling the spread of CDV in Nepal is a priority before considering collaborative efforts with neighboring regions like India.

Conclusion

The ongoing threat posed by CDV underlines an urgent call for protective measures aimed at safeguarding not just leopards but the broader ecosystem that these magnificent creatures inhabit. As the situation unfolds, the glimmer of hope lies in proactive strategies to combat this viral menace and alleviate human-wildlife conflict in Nepal.