India, Jan. 6 -- Weeks after two chousingha (four-horned antelopes) died at the Delhi zoo, a toxicology report from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) found the presence of phosphines in the animals' rumen and intestines, possibly due to exposure to rodenticides (aluminium or zinc phosphide).

Officials said the death is likely due to the presence of rodenticides.

The report, dated December 18, a copy of which HT has seen, said the samples sent to IVRI tested negative for all other common pesticides. "The samples of rumen and intestinal content were positive for the presence of phosphine and negative for HCN, nitrate-nitrite, heavy metals and commonly used pesticides. The presence of phosphine indicates exposure of animals t...