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Zimparks dismisses report of stray lions
2 hrs ago |
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The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) has dismissed reports of stray lions allegedly spotted in Nehwangura village, Chigodora, which had left residents in a state of panic.
The initial report was made by Farai Gwitirwa, a villager under Headman Chigodora in Chief Zimunya's area, who claimed to have encountered a pride of lions - both male and female - around 7:30am while on his way to work.
Gwitirwa said his dogs advanced toward the animals, forcing him to retreat to safety. Alarmed, he alerted authorities, prompting Zimparks to investigate.
A team led by Zimparks community liaison officer Dr. Jona Mashava visited the area on Thursday to verify the report. After extensive checks, including examining animal droppings, the team concluded that the alleged lions were, in fact, a case of mistaken identity.
"The droppings found at the scene were identified as belonging to hyenas, not lions," Dr. Mashava confirmed.
He said the situation remains under surveillance, and any new developments will be swiftly communicated to the public.
Meanwhile, the Mutare Rural District Council and Zimparks have issued a joint advisory urging villagers in the Greenland area to limit unnecessary movements, especially near bushy areas. Parents have also been advised to ensure that children travel in groups and under adult supervision.
Authorities encouraged residents to remain calm and report any future wildlife sightings to local leaders or Zimparks officials immediately.
The initial report was made by Farai Gwitirwa, a villager under Headman Chigodora in Chief Zimunya's area, who claimed to have encountered a pride of lions - both male and female - around 7:30am while on his way to work.
Gwitirwa said his dogs advanced toward the animals, forcing him to retreat to safety. Alarmed, he alerted authorities, prompting Zimparks to investigate.
A team led by Zimparks community liaison officer Dr. Jona Mashava visited the area on Thursday to verify the report. After extensive checks, including examining animal droppings, the team concluded that the alleged lions were, in fact, a case of mistaken identity.
"The droppings found at the scene were identified as belonging to hyenas, not lions," Dr. Mashava confirmed.
He said the situation remains under surveillance, and any new developments will be swiftly communicated to the public.
Meanwhile, the Mutare Rural District Council and Zimparks have issued a joint advisory urging villagers in the Greenland area to limit unnecessary movements, especially near bushy areas. Parents have also been advised to ensure that children travel in groups and under adult supervision.
Authorities encouraged residents to remain calm and report any future wildlife sightings to local leaders or Zimparks officials immediately.
Source - ManicaPost
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