Chiang Mai Tiger Kingdom: Parvovirus Linked to Tiger Deaths
- Saturday, February 21, 2026 – A probe is underway after 72 tigers died at two tiger parks in Chiang Mai, Thailand, earlier this month.
- The deaths, which began around February 8, 2026, occurred at Mae Rim Tiger Kingdom and a second facility in Mae Taeng district.
- Mae Rim Tiger Kingdom has temporarily closed for a 14-day period as authorities investigate the outbreak and work to contain the spread of the virus.
72 Tigers Dead in Chiang Mai Parks Amid Viral Outbreak
– A probe is underway after 72 tigers died at two tiger parks in Chiang Mai, Thailand, earlier this month. Preliminary tests have identified feline parvovirus as a contributing factor, complicated by secondary bacterial infections.
The deaths, which began around , occurred at Mae Rim Tiger Kingdom and a second facility in Mae Taeng district. A total of 21 tigers died at the Mae Rim site, while 51 perished at the Mae Taeng location, according to reports from Protected Area Regional Office 16 (Chiang Mai).
Mae Rim Tiger Kingdom has temporarily closed for a 14-day period as authorities investigate the outbreak and work to contain the spread of the virus. The zoo, known for allowing visitors close contact with the animals – including opportunities to “hug, touch, and take photos up close with tigers” – is a popular tourist destination.
The Department of Livestock Development is leading the investigation, expediting post-mortem examinations and collecting samples from tiger carcasses and feed. These samples were sent to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Chiang Mai University for detailed analysis.
Initial laboratory results confirmed the absence of influenza A virus genetic material. However, tests revealed the presence of canine distemper virus (CDV), a virus typically found in canids but also capable of infecting large wild cats. Mycoplasma spp., bacteria associated with respiratory disease, were also detected.
Veterinarians believe the co-infection of CDV and Mycoplasma spp. Led to severe pneumonia and complications, contributing to the high number of fatalities. The disease can affect both the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, and in some cases, progress to the nervous system.
Somchuan Ratanamungklanon, director general of the department of livestock development, highlighted the challenges of treating tigers compared to domestic animals. “Treating sick tigers is very different from treating dogs and cats,” he told Thai outlet Matichon. “Dogs and cats live closely with us, so when they show symptoms, One can respond and provide treatment right away. Tigers, however, aren’t living closely with humans. By the time we notice that something is wrong, the illness may already be advanced.”
Surviving tigers have been relocated to a nursing centre in Mae Taeng district for quarantine and care. Officials are also disinfecting enclosures and preparing to vaccinate the remaining animals.
Kritsayarm Kongsatri, director of the Protected Areas Regional Office 16 (Chiang Mai), described the scale of the deaths as “very unusual.” The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation is providing support to the formal investigation being overseen by the Chiang Mai Provincial Livestock Office.
Rumors have circulated regarding the health of a veterinarian involved in the necropsies, with reports indicating they were placed in isolation as a precaution. This followed concerns about potential avian influenza, though this has not been confirmed.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the source of the outbreak, with initial attention focused on raw chicken meat supplied by a private farm used as feed. However, officials have stressed that the exact cause of the deaths remains unconfirmed.