70 Sheep Die After Eating Poisonous Plants in Maharashtra

A tragic incident has been reported from Tandali village in Patur taluka of Akola district, Maharashtra. Around 70 sheep belonging to a herder died after eating poisonous plants.

Mahadev Shingade from Lakhanwada village in Buldhana district had taken his flock of about 150 sheep for grazing in Tandali Shivar. The sheep consumed young shoots of a toxic plant, believed to be similar to Nightshade (Nishigandha). Within a short time, the animals fell ill and around 70 sheep died.

The remaining sheep are also in critical condition, raising fears of further losses. Veterinary officers reached the spot and conducted post-mortem of the dead animals. The exact cause will be confirmed after the report.

Each sheep is valued between ₹12,000 to ₹15,000, meaning Mahadev Shingade has suffered a loss of approximately ₹10 to ₹12 lakh. The incident has pushed the herder’s family into a severe financial crisis.

Such cases occur when animals accidentally graze on toxic plants, especially when fodder is scarce. The harmful chemicals in these plants can cause rapid poisoning and death if not treated immediately.

The herder has appealed to the government for financial assistance and compensation for his loss.