In a rare incident, six elephants were spotted wandering outside the Kruger National Park on Wednesday, making their way toward the Mkhuhlu area in Mpumalanga.
Story Summary:
- Six elephants escaped from Kruger National Park and were seen near the Mkhuhlu area.
- Rangers from South African National Parks worked to guide them back to safety.
- Residents have been urged to avoid the area as a precaution due to the potential danger posed by the elephants.
Six elephants escape from Kruger National Park
The elephants were captured on video as rangers from South African National Parks (SANParks) attempted to lure them back into the park’s enclosure.
Authorities have warned residents in Mkhuhlu to steer clear of the area until the situation is under control.
Elephants, though generally peaceful, can become highly unpredictable and aggressive when they feel threatened.
In July, a Spanish tourist was tragically killed in the Pilanesberg National Park after a female elephant perceived the individual as a threat to her herd.
While this latest elephant sighting has caused concern in Mpumalanga, it comes just two weeks after a lion was seen roaming the streets near Pretoria along the M18 road.
The lion was successfully captured and returned to safety later that day.
Facts about elephants:
Elephants are social and protective animals, especially when it comes to their family groups.
Matriarchs, the oldest female elephants, are known for leading and defending their herds.
Elephants may appear calm, but when provoked or threatened, they are capable of charging at speeds of up to 40km/h.
This defensive behaviour is often triggered if their space is invaded or if they sense danger to their young.
Approaching wild elephants on foot can be extremely dangerous.
Experts recommend staying inside vehicles and maintaining a respectful distance to avoid potentially aggressive reactions.
