A HOLIDAYMAKER’S stay at Cape Vidal in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park was cut short when he experienced a frightening encounter with a hyena.
PJ Theron from Nelspruit was asleep on a stretcher in a small tent with the window flap open when a spotted hyena bit through the gauze and grabbed him in the face.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning and was immediately reported to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife’s Cape Vidal Hospitality Manager.
Theron was assisted by fellow campers before being taken to a hospital in Empangeni.
En route to the Bhangazi (Cape Vidal) gate, he was met by the Eastern Shores Conservation Manager at about 3.30am.
Once at hospital, Theron received treatment for cuts on his head and a broken nose.
According to a statement from iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority, a trap has been set for the hyena so it can be tested for rabies.
‘The public is reminded that iSimangaliso has dangerous game where negative animal encounters are possible, especially when animals are being fed by visitors or have access to garbage.
‘We ask visitors to be vigilant and report any incidents or observations to the park’s 24-hour emergency line (082 7977944),’ said iSimangaliso Media Officer, Siyabonga Mhlongo.
