The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has announced the capture of the third and final lioness reported to be on the loose in Rongai, Kajiado County.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 20, KWS confirmed that its Problem Animal Control (PAC) team successfully captured the lioness, which had evaded capture for several weeks.
“Yesterday, a lioness was captured in Sorora Drive, Rimpa, Kajiado North, by the KWS PAC team. Confirmed by her distinctive ear notch, she is believed to be the mother of the two lions captured earlier in the same area,” KWS stated.
Mother Lioness with Unique Features
The much older lioness, identified by her unique ear notch, is believed to be the mother of two younger lions previously captured in the same area. Concerns over roaming lions in Rongai were first raised after CCTV footage captured them in residential neighborhoods.
One of the lions reportedly attacked dogs in the area, heightening fears among residents.
When rangers captured the lioness, they observed that she had sustained multiple injuries, suggesting possible encounters with civilians in the Rongai area. A KWS veterinary team provided immediate treatment to the lioness before preparing to release her back into the wild at Nairobi National Park.
“The lioness has previously been spotted in CCTV footage predating on dogs across various locations, including Masai Lodge, Olekasasi A, Acacia Estate, Nkoroi, and Rimpa,” KWS noted.
“Unfortunately, she has sustained multiple injuries. Our dedicated KWS Vet team is now providing her with the necessary treatment. We’re committed to ensuring her recovery and safe return to the wild.”
Previous Captures
The capture of the mature lioness comes days after another lion, presumed to be her offspring, was evacuated by KWS in the same area. A week earlier, another lioness was captured nearby.
These incidents have become increasingly common for Rongai residents, with the area’s proximity to Nairobi National Park and ongoing human encroachment blamed for the frequent sightings of lions and hyenas.
Human-Wildlife Conflict
Nairobi National Park, the only national park located within a city, faces unique challenges in balancing conservation and urbanization. The unfenced southern part of the park, which borders settlements such as Rongai, Kitengela, and other parts of Kajiado, increases the risk of human-wildlife conflict.
During the rainy season, prey animals often migrate to the unfenced areas, attracting predators like lions, hyenas, and leopards, which then stray into human settlements.
KWS emphasized the importance of public cooperation to mitigate such conflicts. “If you spot wildlife in residential areas, please call our 24-7 toll-free number 0800 597 000 or WhatsApp 0726 610 509 immediately. Your quick action helps ensure the safety of both people and wildlife,” KWS appealed.
