Recently, according to an announcement from Inokashira Zoo in Tokyo, Japan, managers injected all 40 squirrels with anti-parasitic drugs on December 4, along with spraying insecticide on them. squirrel cage, as a measure to ensure safety and hygiene of the cage.
However, shortly after the squirrels were returned to the cage, a Japanese common squirrel became ill and later died. During the following week, many other squirrels encountered the same situation, and by the morning of December 11, a total of 31 squirrel deaths had been recorded.
31 squirrels died after Inokashira Zoo in Tokyo cleaned its cages. Photo: ILF.
“The zoo is investigating the cause of death and monitoring the condition of the surviving squirrels. We sincerely apologize for any concerns this may have caused. We will endeavor to determine the cause.” through pathological tests and other means, and will announce the results as soon as accurate information is available,” the zoo’s announcement clearly stated. Samples are also being transferred to outside research organizations as part of the investigation.
Although the statement emphasized that the three drugs used on the squirrels complied with instructions, the zoo also admitted that “the possibility of drug poisoning cannot be ruled out”.
Meanwhile, the zoo confirmed that the squirrel care facility has been cleaned and is safe. During the monitoring process, the living squirrels remain in the cage to serve visitors. The zoo is home to many species of squirrels, including Japanese squirrels, Japanese flying squirrels, and Japanese giant flying squirrels.
