Escaped Kruger National Park lions: 7 return to park, 2 cubs die due to stress

The pride of lions that had escaped to Ngwenya Lodge from the Kruger National Park was once again recovered on Thursday night.

According to SANParks’ spokesperson, Isaac Phaahla, seven of the animals are safe at a boma facility within the park until a decision had been made as to where they will be released.

“Collars were fitted to track their whereabouts and reintegration into their new territory, where they will be safe and thrive. During the operation, we unfortunately lost two of the youngest cubs. The veterinarian team that was heading the operation stressed that this is a common occurrence during such an operation as a result of the stress experienced by the animals, among other factors,” said Phaahla.

Social media user Hayley Dahl said on Facebook she saw a pride of lions at Hippo Pools on Tuesday night, making their way across the river towards Ngwenya Lodge.

The lions were initially successfully darted and taken back to the park on Wednesday, but escaped again shortly after. They were then taken back to the park one again on Thursday night.

This comes after six elephants recently escaped the Kruger Park near Hazyview and local community members attempted to thwart SANParks’ efforts at driving them back in.

At the time, Phaahla said it was normal for animals to cross the boundary river and leave the park in winter while water levels are low.