KAJIADO: In a daring and successful operation, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) captured a young, stray lion that had wandered into a residential area in Ongata Rongai late Thursday night. This incident marks yet another case of wildlife straying from Nairobi National Park into human settlements
The lion, a sub-adult male, was spotted in the Rimpa area, causing considerable alarm among residents who promptly alerted KWS. Rangers and veterinarians swiftly responded, managing to sedate and safely capture the big cat without any harm to the public or the animal.
Officials speculate that the lion ventured out of Nairobi National Park, possibly in search of food or territory. This occurrence is not isolated, with numerous instances of lions and other wildlife straying into nearby residential areas.
Following the capture, the lion was taken to the KWS Veterinary Clinic for a thorough health check-up. If deemed fit, it will be released back into its natural habitat within Nairobi National Park.
KWS reiterated the importance of public awareness and safety measures. Residents in areas surrounding the park are advised to report any sightings of wildlife and avoid confrontation with the animals. “Heavy rains and migration patterns often lead to such incidents,” a KWS spokesperson noted, urging the public to remain vigilant.
The KWS Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) team, alongside the Problem Animal Management Unit (PAMU), continues to monitor the area to prevent future occurrences. They emphasize the need for a collaborative approach to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife.
