H D Kote (Mysuru Dist): Officials of forest department came across the carcass of five deers and seven wild goats while on patrol duty at Neelagiri plantation in Nagarhole National Park on Thursday, in what is suspected to be a case of foul play.

While the officials are awaiting the forensic reports to ascertain the exact reason for the death, it is believed that the animals may have died after consuming water mixed with urea from a pond adjoining the plantation. Few animals were found dead inside the plantation while a few were found in a nearby farm. Plantation owners usually mix water with urea for several reasons, including poaching, to avoid animals from drinking scarce water and also to use it as fertilizer.

Veterinarian Dr Umashankar who conducted the autopsy on the animals said that the forest department personnel found urea near the pound, which is poisonous for animals.

Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Belliyappa said there is no water problem in the forest, but a few animals depend on the pond for drinking water. Further he added that they are awaiting the forensic reports to initiate any action and no cases will be registered against farm owners till then.

Conservator of Forests S Manikandan and Range Forest Officers Madhu, Sharanabasappa and Vivek visited the spot. A case has been registered.