KZN lion euthanasia sparks outrage over failed darting mission

After news broke last week of a lion on the loose near Pongola in KZN, and its subsequent euthanasia, questions continue to mount over whether the killing was necessary. Initial reports of a male lion roaming along the R66 between Nongoma and Pongola emerged on Sunday evening, reportedZululand Observer. On Monday, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife urged members of the public to immediately report any sightings of the animal to the nearest police station.

However, on Wednesday, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife announced that the lion had been euthanised the previous night, sparking criticism and renewed concern among conservationists. Speaking to theZululand Observeryesterday afternoon, Ezemvelo spokesperson Musa Mntambo clarified the sequence of events. “From Sunday, when we became aware of its escape, we tried to dart it using the services of a vet, but it was elusive and was hiding next to Mpilo Game Reserve,” he explained.

“When darting failed, we employed the services of a professional hunter who destroyed it. “Ezemvelo is the only institution legally permitted to issue destruction permits, and all private game reserves apply for such permits from us.” Explaining the challenges around darting, Mntambo said the process is carried out by a veterinarian, which can become highly costly during extended field operations. “It would be very expensive to keep a vet in the bush for two or three days while searching for the lion,” he said.