CHITWAN: A male rhinoceros, estimated to be around 20 years old, was found dead in a paddy field in Bhairavpur, Madi Municipality of Chitwan district on Tuesday morning.
Authorities from Chitwan National Park suspect the endangered animal died from an electric shock.
According to Abhinash Thapa Magar, Information Officer at the Park, the rhino’s body was discovered at approximately 9:30 AM. Initial inspections confirmed that the animal’s horn and hooves were intact, indicating that poaching was not involved.
“An investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of death and to identify anyone who may be responsible,” Magar said, adding that the park is treating the incident seriously due to the conservation significance of rhinos in the region.
Chitwan National Park is home to the largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses in Nepal, a species listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Cases of accidental electrocution—often from unregulated electric fencing meant to protect crops—have become a recurring threat to wildlife in buffer zones around the park.
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