The operation highlights the commitment of KWS to wildlife management and public safety.
According to KWS officials, the lionesses were spotted outside the park boundaries, prompting a swift response from the service’s wildlife rangers.
Using careful tracking and humane capture techniques, the animals were safely tranquilized and returned to the park’s secure enclosures. No injuries to the animals or humans were reported during the operation.
KWS Director General explained that the escape was likely due to the animals exploring new territories within the park, a behavior not uncommon among lions, especially those that are young or recently introduced. “We have robust systems in place to respond to such situations.
The recapture was successful, and the public can carry on with their daily routines without concern,” the official said.
Residents living near the park had been advised to exercise caution when the lionesses were at large, and temporary alerts had been issued to schools and communities close to the park.
KWS emphasized that the safety of both people and wildlife remains a top priority.
The service also used the opportunity to remind the public about the importance of reporting any wildlife sightings outside park boundaries. Prompt reporting helps KWS respond quickly and prevent potential accidents.
Officials said that such incidents, while rare, offer valuable lessons in wildlife management and the need to continually review park fencing, monitoring systems, and emergency response protocols.
Environmental experts praised KWS for handling the situation professionally, noting that the successful recapture demonstrates Kenya’s capacity to manage wildlife incidents responsibly.
They also stressed the importance of maintaining harmony between human settlements and wildlife, especially in areas surrounding Nairobi National Park.