The Bronx Zoo announced earlier today that a 4-year-old Malayan tiger has tested positive for CoViD-19.
The name of the tiger, who tested positive for the CoViD-19, is Nadia. She was exposed by an asymptomatic worker, according the zoo. The zoo also said that “appropriate preventative measures” have been put in place to care for the cats and minimize further exposure.
According to the Wildlife Conservation Society, six (6) other large cats are also showing symptoms.
The test was conducted by the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory in the State of Iowa.
Zoo officials stated Nadia, three (3) other tigers, and three (3) African lions have developed a dry cough, but are all expected to recover.
“Though they have experienced some decrease in appetite, the cats at the Bronx Zoo are otherwise doing well under veterinary care and are bright, alert, and interactive with their keepers,” the zoo’s press release said. “It is not known how this disease will develop in big cats since different species can react differently to novel infections, but we will continue to monitor them closely and anticipate full recoveries,”.
New York City’s zoos and aquariums have been closed to the public since March 16, 2020.
