Shivamogga, April 15 -- A 12-year-old female hippopotamus, 'Hamsini', died at the Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari in Shivamogga on Apr. 14 after suffering a severe uterine infection linked to intrauterine foetal death.

According to Zoo authorities, the animal died around 3.08 pm after days of declining health. Hamsini, which was suspected to be pregnant, had shown signs such as foetal movement, abdominal swelling and behavioural changes. Though the eight-month gestation period had ended by mid-March, she did not go into labour.

Zoo Director V.M. Amarakshar said in a press release that the animal had reduced food intake and turned lethargic in the days leading up to its death. On Apr. 10, a team of wildlife veterinarians from Mysuru Z...