Abstract
The current pandemic caused by a novel coronavirus named as SARS-CoV2
has underlined the importance of emerging diseases of zoonotic
importance. Along with human beings, several species of wild and pet
animals have been demonstrated to be infected by SARS-CoV2, both
naturally and experimentally. Additionally, with constant emergence of
new variants, the species susceptibility might further change,
warranting intensification of screening efforts. India is a vast and
second most populated country, with a habitat of a very diverse range of
animal species. In this study we are reporting infection of SARS-CoV2 in
captive Asiatic lions. Detailed characterization revealed involvement of
delta mutant (Pango lineage B.1.617.2) of SARS-CoV2 at two different
locations. Interestingly, no other feline species enclosed in the
zoo/park was found infected. The epidemiological and molecular analysis
in this study will contribute to the understanding of SARS-CoV2 emerging
mutants in wild and domesticated animals.