Synopsis
Namibia's MEFT is tracking two lions that have ventured outside protected areas into farmland, urging local communities to stay vigilant while ensuring livestock safety. No incidents of livestock losses or human attacks have been reported.Key Takeaways
- MEFT is tracking two lions outside protected areas.
- The first lioness was spotted near Tsumeb and Oshivelo.
- Another lion is reported near Oromowa.
- No livestock losses or human attacks have been confirmed.
- Human-wildlife conflict continues to challenge Namibia.
Windhoek, Feb 2 (NationPress) Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has announced that it is actively monitoring two lions that have wandered off from protected areas into agricultural land.
The first lion, identified as a female, was detected between Tsumeb and Oshivelo, two towns situated in northern Namibia along a vital route that links the country's interior to Etosha National Park, a significant wildlife conservation zone, as stated by MEFT spokesperson Romeo Muyunda in a statement released on Saturday.
As per Muyunda, this lioness is part of a pride consisting of two adult lions and four cubs located at Onguma Farm, a private reserve adjacent to Etosha, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.
"We suspect that one female lion left the farm and was seen and recorded by travelers in a circulating video," Muyunda stated. "Our team has been tracking the lion's tracks to Punyu farm."
The region affected primarily comprises private farmland, which mitigates the likelihood of direct encounters with humans. He urged farmers and nearby communities to exercise caution while officials endeavor to guide the lion back to Onguma.
Another lion has been sighted at Oromowa, a farming locale on the western edge of Etosha National Park, and is believed to have strayed from the park.
"Our personnel are also tracking this lion and advising local communities to remain alert and secure their livestock," Muyunda added.
The ministry has confirmed that there have been no reports of livestock losses, property damage, or human attacks.
Namibia continues to grapple with challenges related to human-wildlife conflict, as its expanding population and agricultural activities encroach on wildlife habitats.
Large carnivores, such as lions and elephants, frequently move out of national parks and conservancies into agricultural zones, resulting in livestock losses and property damage.
