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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฉ Bangladesh /Health & Science

Rare albino buffalo "Donald Trump" transferred for scientific research in Bangladesh

From Daily Star · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • A rare albino buffalo, nicknamed "Donald Trump," has been transferred to the Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI) for scientific study.
  • The buffalo will undergo a 14-day quarantine before research begins on its genetic and production potential.
  • The animal gained viral attention after being purchased for sacrificial purposes, leading authorities to take custody for security reasons before its transfer to the institute.

A rare albino buffalo, known affectionately as โ€œDonald Trump,โ€ has arrived at the Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI) in Savar to undergo scientific research. The animal, which garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally, was formally handed over to the BLRI from the Mirpur National Zoo following a directive from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. Currently, the buffalo is in a mandatory 14-day quarantine period. During this time, access is restricted, and the animal is under continuous observation. A 13-member committee, led by Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Gautam Kumar Deb, has been formed to oversee the buffalo's stay and research. Officials confirmed that the buffalo will reside at the institute permanently. Dr. Gautam explained that the research will primarily focus on the albino buffalo's genetic makeup and its potential for breed development, given its unique and attractive nature. He assured that the animal is healthy and settling in well during its quarantine phase. The buffalo was initially raised by Ziauddin Mridha at Rabeya Agro Farm in Narayanganj before being purchased for Tk 3.85 lakh by Moniruzzaman for sacrificial purposes ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. However, the buffalo's viral fame on social media prompted authorities to intervene for security reasons. It was temporarily placed with the Keraniganj Police Station before being transferred to the National Zoo and, subsequently, to the BLRI for its scientific study. The institute aims to leverage the animal's distinctiveness for valuable research into livestock development.

As this breed is highly attractive, research will mainly focus on its genetic and production potential. The animal is under quarantine for 14 days, with restricted access and ongoing observation. It is healthy and will remain here permanently.

โ€” Dr Gautam Kumar DebThe Chief Scientific Officer of the Buffalo Production Research Division at BLRI explains the research objectives and the buffalo's current condition.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Daily Star in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.