Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has cautioned the public on how to deal with potential hyena attacks.
In a statement on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, KWS said hyenas are generally lazy and prefer scavenging for easy meals, such as dead meat, rather than actively hunting prey.
According to the KWS, hyenas play a crucial role in the ecosystem as scavengers, helping to clean the environment by disposing of discarded bones and debris, thereby preventing the spread of zoonotic diseases.
KWS noted the behaviour of hyenas during the day, mentioning that they can often be observed staring at the sky and taking cues from circling vultures, using this as their unique GPS to locate potential prey.
However, the KWS acknowledged that hyenas could pose a threat to humans, providing valuable safety tips for encounters with these creatures.
The public is advised to refrain from running if faced with a hyena, as their predatory instinct might be triggered by fleeing prey.
Instead, individuals are encouraged to follow specific safety guidelines.
"In case of an encounter with one, it is advisable to counter the attack through the use of safety tips: Stop, don't run. As a predator, it will instinctively chase animals which run away," the KWS stated.
The guidelines further include recommendations to avoid lying down or pretending to be dead, as this could increase the hyena's curiosity.
Hyenas are noted as nocturnal creatures, and people are advised to minimize movements at night. Importantly, individuals should try not to show fear and remain calm by talking to the hyena.
"If faced with a hyena, do not move away until it does, and continue facing its direction. If the hyena growls or giggles, stand your ground, but do not move closer. Be loud, look aggressive, and appear frightening to deter the hyena," the KWS advised.
How to avoid a Hyena Attack: https://t.co/QY8v98Tnmj pic.twitter.com/AP7VJ4wcSf— Kenya Wildlife Service (@KWSKenya) January 9, 2024
Boy attacked
This follows the recent tragic incident where 10-year-old Dennis Teya lost his life in a brutal hyena attack. Dennis Teya, a Grade 4 pupil, was with his friends when the hyenas launched the attack as they were heading home.
