EFFECTS OF CURRENT DROUGHT ON WILDLIFE DISPERSAL

Release Date: 
Friday, October 21, 2016 - 16:00

The ongoing drought situation in the country has resulted in dispersal of wildlife from their traditional habitats in search of pasture and water.

This has increased the risk factor of conflict as the wildlife come into contact with the public and human activities resulting to an increase in human wildlife conflicts.

From the cases recorded by KWS, it is evident that there has been an increase in reported incidents of conflicts compared to past years; the notable ones being attacks on people, property destruction, livestock predation and crop raiding.

Cases in point include recent sightings of elephants moving from the Tsavo conservation area to Mwingi Sub-County, while others were reported in Meru, Kilifi and Narok areas.

KWS as the country’s lead institution mandated to manage wildlife would like to inform the public that the interactions between wildlife and the public are expected to increase up to the time when rains are experienced and the pasture lands regenerate.

In the mean time, the Service is doing its best to ensure that both the public and the wildlife co-exist well.

Members of public in areas that generally experience high conflicts like Narok, Taita, Laikipia, Kajiado, Meru, Mau, Lamu and around Mt. Kenya region are advised to exercise caution while undertaking their normal duties especially in early mornings and late evenings.

KWS can be reached via its Toll free line 0800597000 or its nearest office.