Lions enforce national lockdown in Skukuza staff village
As everyone is well aware, Kruger is in lockdown with the rest of South Africa. During this time, it seems some lions in the park have taken it upon themselves to enforce the lockdown on the staff village of Skukuza in the Kruger National Park.
In the pictures taken by Johan Malan from Wildlife Veterinary Services, the lions can be seen patrolling the fence of Skukuza staff village, situated on the southern banks of the Sabie River. It is the park’s largest rest camp and administrative headquarters.
Photo credit: Johan Malan
According to the park’s Twitter page, Skukuza Golf Course greenskeeper Jean Rossouw has also had some assistance from wild animals to keep the course in its usual tip-top shape for when the humans return to play after the lockdown.
Photo credit: Jean Rossouw
It seems like the animals have become quite accustomed to being alone in the lockdown period. This is indicated by yet another post on Kruger National Park Twitter page, saying that a pride of lions is usually resident on Kempiana Contractual Park, an area Kruger tourists do not see. However, they were spotted lying on the tar road just outside of Orpen Rest Camp – in plain sight during this lockdown period.
Photo credit: Section Ranger Richard Sowry
Although the national lockdown is keeping humans indoors, it seems to be nothing but good for nature and wildlife that seems to flourish during this unprecedented time.
According to Barbara Creecy, Minister of Forestry and Fisheries and Environmental Affairs of the Republic of South Africa, rhino poaching numbers have decreased in South Africa during the Covid-19 time.
“This could be attributed to the dedication of the essential staff who are on high alert in the Kruger Park, all other national parks, as well as provincial and municipal game reserves,” said Creecy.
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