Kenyans Advised to Be on High Alert for Displaced Wild Animals

KWS officers securing a leopard in a cage.
KWS officers securing a leopard in a cage.
Photo
KWS

The Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) has cautioned Kenyans over incidents of wildlife displacement that were caused by the heavy rains and floods.

In a statement dated Friday, May 17, KWS noted that Kenyans living in wildlife-prone areas were at risk of encountering the animals.

Therefore, Kenyans were advised to be vigilant and avoid outdoor activities at night.

A leopard captured by KWS officers on April 22, 2024.
A leopard captured by KWS officers on April 22, 2024.
Photo
KWS

"The recent heavy rains have caused significant wildlife displacement, leading to the risk of unexpected encounters in community wildlife-prone areas.

"As a precaution, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) cautions the public to avoid outdoor activities in those areas, especially after dusk," read the statement in part.

Kenyans were also advised to alert KWS should they come across wild animals.

"The public is urged to report unusual wildlife sightings through the KWS 24-hour toll-free line at 0800597000, via WhatsApp at +254726610509, or to the nearest KWS station for immediate intervention.

"The safety of people and promoting wildlife coexistence is our priority," read the statement in part.

Notably, the advisory was issued a day after residents of Lang'ata were cautioned of roaming lions. The lions were reported to have been seen near the Lang'ata Women's Prisons.

At the time of publication, KWS was yet to give a status update on its investigations.

"In response, the KWS Problem Animal Control team promptly mobilized and conducted a thorough search of the area throughout the night. Despite their efforts, no lions were found.

"KWS continues to monitor the situation closely and remains on high alert. Ensuring the safety of the public is our top priority," KWS stated then.

The floods which occurred in April were not only witnessed in residential areas but also in game parks.

In some instances, tourists had to be evacuated as the floods marooned their hotels and camps.

KWS officers conducting an exercise at a park in 2024.
KWS officers conducting an exercise at a park in 2024.
Photo
KWS