Leopard kills KNP worker’s toddler in Malalane
The leopard was searched and killed immediately after the incident to avoid similar incidents in future
The life of a two-year-six month-old baby ended tragically when he was killed by a leopard yesterday around 20:00. The incident happened at the staff compounds, Malalane Technical Services living quarters. It is alleged that animal jumped over the fence into the compound.
“There is a fence around the staff compound; unfortunately it was not a deterrent to this animal. Fences are meant to keep people and animals out, but unfortunately it is not always successful,” explained Mr Isaac Phaahla, spokesperson of the park.
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The boy was rushed to Shongwe hospital by his family, where he was certified dead. Phaahla said that the leopard was searched and killed immediately after the incident to avoid similar incidents in future. This was not the first incident in the park.
“We have experienced incidents of this nature before, but they are very rare,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of South African National Parks, Mr Fundisile Mketeni has extended his condolences to the family. “Our prayers and thoughts are with the family during this trying time, we wish them strength and we will give them all the support they need as an organisation. It is never easy to lose a loved one, especially under such tragic circumstances. This is the risk we live with on a daily basis as we help conserve our species for the benefit of all. May the young toddler’s soul rest in eternal peace,” said Mketeni.
In parks like the KNP predators do interact with tourists and staff and at times it may result in species like leopard getting habituated to people and losing their fear. The change in natural behaviour can then lead to unfortunate incidents such as this. This is an unfortunate risk that staff experience when having to live and work in environments like the KNP. These events are very rare occurrences but always tragic when they do occur.
KNP Management has sent a delegation to the family to give moral support and professional counselling will be provided to all involved.
