Leopard Bittu Dies After Prolonged Illness at Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Six-year-old rescued leopard succumbs to kidney disease despite continuous medical care

A sad incident was reported from Sanjay Gandhi National Park, where Bittu, a six-year-old male leopard, died on March 21, 2026, after battling a long illness.

Bittu was rescued as a newborn cub from the Yeoor area in Thane on December 4, 2019. As he was only a few days old, he was hand-raised at the park’s rescue centre by a team of veterinarians and caretakers. His care was supported by Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who had adopted him.

A few months ago, Bittu began showing signs of health issues. Doctors immediately started treatment and kept him under close monitoring. Tests later revealed that he was suffering from Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a serious condition that affects kidney function.

Despite continuous treatment and care, his health kept deteriorating. The disease eventually led to multiple organ failure, causing his death.

A post-mortem confirmed severe kidney damage with multiple cysts. Samples have been sent to Mumbai Veterinary College for further examination. Officials stated that all possible medical efforts were made to save the leopard.