West Mathewson, the owner of Lion Treetop Lodge in Hoedspruit, was killed by his two white lions on Wednesday, August 26. The animals were kept in an enclosure according to Africa Geographic.
In 2017, the lions escaped from their enclosure and killed a lodge worker who was collecting firewood. West described the lions as friendly and non-aggressive in a telephonic interview he had with Africa Geographic after the attack. He also explained that he walked with the animals between 3-4 hours a day.
According to the Lion Treetop Lodge’s website, the lions were raised on the property.
‘We have raised white lion cubs that are now fully-grown and part of the Lion Tree Top Lodge family. The African Lion has become vulnerable. Following the discovery of the decline of the lion population, several coordinated efforts involving lion conservation have been organised in an attempt to stem the decline. We are proud to be part of this effort. Experience the thrill of walking with our white lions!’
Confirmed reports that lodge owner West Mathewson was killed by his two white lions at Treetop Lodge near Hoedspruit this morning.
In 2017, the lions escaped from their enclosure and killed a lodge worker who was chopping wood nearby.
Further details to follow…. pic.twitter.com/chyGFHpkF8— Simon Bloch (@simonbloch1) August 26, 2020
Getaway would like to express their condolences to Mr Mathewson’s family and friends at this time.
Image credit: Facebook/ Lion Treetop Lodge
