Injured lioness Nodi in critical condition, say vets at Cox's Bazar safari park

Once a centre of attraction, Nodi, the 11-year-old lioness at Dulhazra Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park in Cox's Bazar, is in critical condition.

"She has shown no signs of improvement even after over two months of treatment for her severe neck injuries. Now the lioness has stopped eating food," said Md Majharul Islam, the park in-charge.

According to Majharul, Nodi sustained injuries in a fight with her partner Samrat (lion) on February 2 this year. Samrat was also injured in the fight. Initially, upazila livestock officer Dr Supan Nandi treated the two injured animals.

On February 19, the two animals fought again. And Nodi sustained a serious injury to her neck.

"Safari park vet Dr Mostafizur Rahman treated the two animals. Though Samrat recovered, Nodi's condition has been worsening with each passing day," another official said.

On February 28, a five-member medical board was formed to treat Nodi. The board members include three veterinary surgeons of Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, upazila livestock officer Dr Supan Nandi and park surgeon Dr Hatem Sajjad Zulkar Nain.

When contacted, Supan said, "Lions usually live for 12-18 years. Nodi has grown old and lost her taste buds. Her antibodies are also decreasing daily. That is why her condition is very critical."

Majharul said he had already informed the higher authorities "for better treatment of Nodi".

Lioness Nodi was born on September 8, 2011, in the womb of Hira. She and Samrat have a cub.