SANParks field ranger attacked by elephant
The ranger's colleagues rescued him by firing a warning shot.
A SANParks field ranger was severely injured by an elephant in the Pretoriuskop region of the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Tuesday December 20. His injuries are severe, but not fatal.
SANParks’ spokesperson, Ike Phaahla, said, “The incident took place shortly after 08:00. Preliminary reports suggest the injured field ranger was on patrol with his colleagues when a breeding herd of elephants crossed the road in front of them.
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“One of the elephants turned back and charged the field ranger, which resulted in him sustaining serious injuries. His colleagues managed to rescue him by firing a warning shot at the elephant, which ran off, and they were able to immediately call for help.”
A helicopter with a doctor and support team was immediately called. The fast medical response helped stabilise the ranger who was transported by ambulance to a hospital outside the park.
The head ranger for the KNP, Catherine Dreyer, said, “These are the daily dangers we face in protecting our natural heritage and the park from all wildlife crime. The possibility of being attacked by a dangerous wild animal is always present.”
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Visitors to the wildlife parks are advised to keep a healthy distance from all elephants, especially breeding herds with calves. Wildlife enthusiasts should also be aware of warning signs from elephants that may indicate stress and agitation.
Elephants display a host of recognisable signs when they are stressed and more liable to charge. These include foot-scraping, ear-flapping, trumpeting and disassociating from the herd.
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Interestingly, the “tear stains” down an elephant’s temples, which are normally associated with an elephant bull in musth, may also be a sign that the animal is agitated and stressed.
