At least 50 hippos and other large animals have died from anthrax poisoning in Virunga National Park in eastern Congo, with carcasses seen floating in the Ishasha River, which feeds into Lake Edward.

Park director Emmanuel De Merode confirmed the deaths, which include buffalo, as a major setback for the park’s recovering hippo population.

The source of the anthrax is still unclear, CNN has reported.

Park officials are trying to remove and bury the animals to prevent further spread, but face challenges due to limited equipment and rebel control in the area. Residents have been warned to avoid wildlife and boil water.

Written by B.C. Begley