The hyena was first sighted early in the morning by residents of Embakasi, a densely populated area in Nairobi. Alarmed by the presence of the wild animal, residents quickly reported the sighting to the authorities. The KWS responded promptly, dispatching a team of wildlife experts to the scene.
KWS spokesperson provided details of the operation. “We received reports of a hyena wandering in Embakasi at around 6:00 AM. Our team was mobilized immediately, and we arrived at the location within an hour. Using our specialized equipment and with the assistance of local residents, we were able to safely tranquilize and capture the hyena by 8:30 AM.”
The captured hyena has been transported to the KWS Animal Rehabilitation Center for a thorough health check-up. Initial assessments indicate that the animal is in good condition. The KWS is now investigating how the hyena ended up in the urban area, which is uncommon for the species typically found in more remote and rural regions.
Local residents have expressed their relief and gratitude towards the KWS for their prompt action. Mary Atieno, a resident of Embakasi, shared her thoughts: “We were really scared when we saw the hyena. It’s not something you expect to see in the city. We’re very thankful to the KWS for handling the situation so quickly and efficiently.”
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife interactions in Kenya, particularly in urban areas where the expansion of human settlements encroaches on natural habitats. The KWS continues to emphasize the importance of coexistence and the need for communities to remain vigilant and report any unusual wildlife sightings immediately.
In a statement, KWS Director stressed the importance of such collaborations: “Our ability to respond quickly to wildlife incidents is greatly enhanced by the cooperation of local communities. We urge the public to continue supporting our efforts by reporting sightings and avoiding any actions that could endanger both humans and wildlife.”
As urbanization continues to grow, the KWS remains committed to protecting Kenya’s wildlife and ensuring the safety of its citizens. The successful capture of the stray hyena in Embakasi serves as a testament to their dedication and efficiency in managing wildlife emergencies.
