Community members living near the Colenso Heights, about 20km from Ladysmith KZN, have been warned to be on the lookout for a leopard that has been seen outside the confines of nearby game farms.

The leopard was spotted several times in the last month and photographed crossing the R103, Colenso Heights, on Wednesday, September 9. During this incident, the leopard was actually grazed by an approaching car before disappearing into nearby bush.

People are urged to be alert and take extra caution in the area.

A second sighting has also been confirmed, this time at night.

Colenso police have been informed.

Authorities are taking this matter seriously and are working with Nature Conservation so they can assist in safely locating, containing and relocating the leopard to a suitable and safe environment. In the meantime, we urge everyone to remain calm but vigilant, especially during the evening and at night.

If spotted, do not approach, chase, corner or attempt to capture the leopard.

Ezemvelo Wildlife District Conservation Officer Ephraim Mavuso stressed that the leopard has not yet been captured. They are actively looking for it and urge anyone who spots the leopard to contact him on 083 591 8907.

Mavuso confirmed that the leopard has been spotted more than once in the Colenso area.

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