Three individuals lost their lives at the Sibuya Game Reserve in South Africa, yet it was not at the hands of other humans.
They were preyed upon by lions.
Reports suggest that the trio unlawfully trespassed into the game reserve with intentions of poaching rhinoceroses. However, they found themselves in an extraordinary and fatal predicament.
“They encountered a pride of lions – a considerable pride, which left them with minimal opportunity,” stated Mr. Fox in an interview with the AFP news agency. “The exact count is uncertain; very little remains of them.”
Prior to approaching the poachers’ remains, it was necessary to sedate the lions, causing a delay in the recovery process.
Ultimately, the following items were retrieved from the scene: three sets of footwear, assorted body parts, and a severed head. Additionally, equipment typically utilized by poachers for the extraction of rhino horns was also discovered.
Certain individuals believed that the poachers received a fitting retribution. Ricky Gervais, a renowned comedian, actor, writer, and director, sarcastically remarked, “Rest in pieces.”
Rest In Pieces https://t.co/0PqVt9mrBY
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) July 5, 2018
Concerns about the well-being of the lions arose among other individuals, prompting the reserve to be contacted regarding their condition following the incident. According to Fox, there were no observable alterations in the lions’ behavior.
“We have received numerous inquiries regarding the future of the six lions involved in the tragic event surrounding the suspected poachers’ demise.
The six lions were tranquillized from a specialized game-viewing vehicle, and their response to the vehicle was closely monitored by myself, the veterinary team, and our conservation staff. Their behavior appeared consistent with their usual interactions with such vehicles over the past decade.”
In the game industry, it is widely acknowledged that lions perceive a game-viewing vehicle with people differently from individuals walking on the ground.
At the Sibuya Game Reserve, visitors are only permitted to observe the wildlife from designated game-viewing vehicles. Pedestrian access is prohibited due to the dense bush and vegetation on the premises.
“During the past few days, game guides and anti-poaching personnel have continued driving game-viewing vehicles near this pride to monitor for any behavioral changes, and they have confirmed that thus far, no differences have been observed.
While remaining exceptionally vigilant, we maintain a positive outlook that this incident will not necessitate any alterations to the existing situation concerning our lions.”
Illegal hunting poses a major issue in Africa. Rhino horns are believed to possess unique medicinal properties, which creates a constant demand for them in Asia. However, it should be noted that they are composed of the same substance as human fingernails.
In the Eastern Cape province, where this reserve is situated, poachers have already claimed the lives of nine rhinos this year.
Rewritten Source: https://blog.therainforestsite.greatergood.com/gfl-lions-eat-rhino-poachers/