A veteran Kruger National Park (KNP) ranger, Joseph Ngula (57), is still hospitalised in the trauma unit of Netcare Milpark Hospital, Johannesburg, following an attack by an enraged elephant on Tuesday December 20.

The KNP’s spokesperson, Ike Phaahla, said, “The medical team is happy with his progress and his family have been able to spend time with him in hospital with the support of SANParks. Joseph’s colleagues and family are being assisted with trauma counselling.”

ALSO READ: SANParks field ranger attacked by elephant

The near-fatal incident happened during a routine morning patrol in the Pretoriuskop section of the KNP.

He was in a critical condition when he was airlifted to Johannesburg just over a week ago.

Nkuna has been in the employ of SANParks for the past 32 years.

Head ranger Catherine Dryer 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.

ALSO READ: SANParks issues holiday bookings advice for Kruger National Park

“In some instances, unavoidable, especially with the bush being so thick during this time of the year. It makes it difficult to see animals from a distance and have sufficient time to react.”