The Head of Veterinary and Capture Service at the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Isaac Lekolool has shared safety tips when one encounters hyenas.
His remarks come after a recent hyena attack on a five-year-old child in Juja, an incident that has raised concerns among residents of several areas, including Juja and Rongai, where hyenas have become increasingly problematic.
In a video shared on Monday, September 16, Lekolool emphasized the role hyenas play in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
“Hyenas are very important in the ecosystem because they do a lot of cleanup in the environment after other species, especially cleaning up carcasses, hence saving the environment from hazards,” he explained.
For those living in areas where hyenas are common, Lekolool offered practical safety measures to avoid dangerous encounters.
He stressed the importance of staying calm and showing confidence if faced with a hyena by carrying a stick to show that you are aware of it’s presence.
“When you see a hyena, it’s good not to show fear. Find a stick to show it that you have seen it and you are not threatened by it,” he advised.
Dr. Isaac Lekolool, Head of Veterinary and Capture Services, shares important insights on what to do if you encounter a hyena to keep yourself safe. We understand that these encounters can be frightening, but with the right knowledge, you can avoid harm.
— Kenya Wildlife Service (@KWSKenya) September 16, 2024
Together, let’s ensure… pic.twitter.com/LFYVfbkEli
He also highlighted the need for parents to keep a close eye on their children by escorting them to wherever they need to be.
“If you live in areas with hyenas, keep your children safe by escorting them to wherever they are going,” Lekolool said.
Additionally, the director noted that proper waste disposal is crucial in preventing hyenas from being attracted to human settlements.
“Dispose of waste properly. In the event where your kitchen waste is not properly disposed, hyenas will take up on the garbage,” he warned.
Lekolool further urged those involved in quarry activities to take precautions, as abandoned pits and caves can attract hyenas.
He also noted that hyenas are primarily nocturnal creatures, so residents should avoid walking at night in areas known to be inhabited by these animals.
“Hyenas are nocturnal animals, so they are active during the night. Avoid walking in the night in areas that are inhabited by these animals,” he added.
Miano on hyenas attacks
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano Juja directed the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to eliminate all hyenas from the Juja area.
Taking to her official X account on Friday, September 6, 2024, she emphasized that KWS personnel are actively working to reassure Juja residents that such attacks will cease after September 2024.
Additionally, she said 24-hour surveillance has been implemented to prevent further incidents. KWS, through Operation Ondoa Fisi-2, launched in August 2024, said has already relocated 38 hyenas and closed off 12 quarries used as their hideouts. This initiative aims to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in the region.
“I have directed KWS to mop up all hyenas from Juja area as fast as humanly possible and demonstrate to the residents of the area affected that this will be a thing of the past after September 2024. Meanwhile, I have authorized 24 hour KWS surveillance in Juja area to ensure that no other life is lost forthwith,” she stated.
