- A Spanish tourist was killed by an elephant at Pilanesberg National Park.
- The tourist exited his vehicle to take pictures and was attacked by a breeding herd.
- Despite warnings, the tourist approached the elephants on foot.
- Park officials and police are investigating the incident.
A Spanish tourist was killed on Sunday afternoon in Pilanesberg National Park after an elephant attacked him.
Pilanesberg National Park confirms elephant incident
The tourist, along with three friends, entered the park at Bakgatla Gate.
Shortly after entering, they encountered a breeding herd of elephants feeding near the road.
The tourist, ignoring warnings from his companions and other visitors, exited the vehicle to take photographs on foot.
Eyewitnesses reported that an adult female elephant charged at the man, who attempted to flee.
Unfortunately, the elephant, followed by the herd, caught up with him and trampled him to death.
The elephants then moved away without showing aggression towards nearby vehicles and disappeared into the bushes.
Park officials quickly responded to the scene to assist the victim’s friends and secure the area. The seriously injured man was transported to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
The incident is under investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
In a statement, the North-West Parks and Tourism Board expressed deep condolences to the victim’s family and friends.
The board also thanked Sun City Resort for providing immediate counselling services to the deceased’s traumatised companions.
“The dangerous and unpredictable nature of wild animals are always emphasized on the permits and booklets for sale in Pilanesberg. Park officials and Honorary Rangers are also patrolling the park and tourist roads when the park is open. Tourists are forever educated on the importance of remaining in the safety of the vehicle, to respect distance between vehicles and animals and allow them first right of passage, and to only alight in specially designated areas,” the board stated.
Why do elephants attack humans?
Elephants, while generally peaceful, can become aggressive when they feel threatened or provoked.
In the case of the Pilanesberg incident, the female elephant likely perceived the tourist as a threat to her herd, particularly the young calves.
Protective behaviour is common among elephant matriarchs, who lead and safeguard their groups.
Elephants may charge and attack humans if they are startled, injured, or feel that their personal space is being invaded.
Approaching wild elephants on foot is extremely dangerous, as it can trigger defensive behaviours.
In this tragic incident, the tourist’s decision to get out of the vehicle and move closer to the elephants was a critical mistake.