After swift action by rangers and veterinary services, a pride of 10 lions was returned to the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Saturday.

According to a statement by SANParks posted on Facebook, the Malelane Section Ranger had received a report from Riverside Farm that a pride of lions had been seen on the property by the staff. The property is adjacent to the KNP along the Crocodile River.

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The ranger immediately investigated the matter by flying over the area in a light aircraft in an attempt to locate the animals.

“A helicopter was also dispatched in the afternoon and at least eight to nine animals were located. In a joint effort by rangers, Veterinary Wildlife Services, the State Veterinary Department and Riverside Farm, the animals were lured onto a bait shortly after sunset, in order to be safely immobilised and returned to the park.”

On the same evening, 10 animals were darted, loaded on a vehicle and safely transported back to the park.

“A word of appreciation to everyone involved and to Riverside for assisting with the operation from start to finish. The fast reaction from all involved led to a very successful operation,” concluded the statement by SANParks.

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