Death of Kruger hippos under investigation

Posted on 17 December 2019

Ten hippos were found dead in the Crocodile River, and there seems to be no explanation as to what caused their deaths. The hippos were found dead on their backs, and their deaths are currently under investigation.

Speaking to The Citizen, Head of Communications for SANParks Reynold Thakhuli confirmed a Malalane section ranger stumbled upon the shocking discovery.

“Veterinarians and scientists were flown to the site to investigate and compile necropsy reports,” Thakhuli added.

Blood samples are being drawn from the hippos, and water samples from the Crocodile River are also being analysed. Dead fish from the area are also being tested. “No effort will be spared to get to the bottom of this problem,” Thakhuli added.

 

A pod of hippos was found dead in the Crocodile River (Source: Latest Sightings: Kruger)

 

A few years ago, veterinarians also confirmed the deaths of a number of animals in the Crocodile Bridge section of the park. This included a total of 52 animals – among these were lions, seven white rhinos and cheetahs.

At the time, a green scum on the surface of the water was found, and tests confirmed blue-green algae, which is also called Micocystis, was the main reason the water was discoloured.

 

Image: Latest Sightings: Kruger/Facebook




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