The dry season continues to ravage the Tsavo Ecosystem. Most of the surface water has dried up and there is scarce forage available for the animals. As we come near the end of the dry season, the case load has risen drastically due to human-wildlife conflict, drought and bush meat related incidences.
During October, the Unit de-snared 3 giraffes, 3 zebra’s, 2 elephants and 1 leopard across the Ecosystem. Sadly, a hippo had to be euthanised after it was speared and 7 lions were poisoned and killed in Amboseli. Post-mortems were conducted in Tsavo East NP on 2 elephants, and though the exact cause of death wasn’t clear, it was deemed a poaching incident. Post-mortems on 2 other elephants were classed as natural causes. In addition, the Unit also rescued 6 young elephants and treated 1 for natural causes, amongst other cases involving other species. With the rains expected soon, it is hoped the cases will reduce with the increase of forage and water available for the animals.