Father injured rescuing son from pride of lions

A man is nursing serious injuries after he attempted to rescue his son from a pride of lions in Laikipia North.

The 10-year-old boy and his two siblings were grazing goats at Tiamamut community land when they spotted four lions.

The siblings distress call attracted their father Itekel Lekarkuli who came to their rescue accompanied by Samuel Yankere.

The boy was caught between the goats and three lions. Lekarkuli tried to scare the lions unaware of the presence of another lioness that pounced on him.

Lekarkuli was rushed to Kimanjo sub-county hospital before National Police Reservists from Naibunga Lower killed the lioness.

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In the ensuing confusion, the siblings managed to flee to safety. 

“Kenya Wildlife Service officers from Doldol visited the scene and removed remains of the lioness to Nanyuki for further examination, while NPRs remained in the area to monitor the other three lions to prevent further injuries,” said a police report.

When hunting for a meal, lions exhibit techniques and cooperation. The lionesses normally lead the hunt, using stealth and coordination to approach the prey as closely as possible.

Once within striking distance, the lions launch a coordinated attack where each member plays a specific role. However, some lions might charge directly to create confusion, while others lie in wait to ambush the fleeing animals.

Last July, ‘Advancing Human Wildlife Conflict Management’ project was launched in Laikipia where human-wildlife conflicts are common.
The project seeks to tackle human-wildlife conflict and economically empower local communities through tourism, while also safeguarding local farmers.