Hippo attacks workers in Kruger National Park

South African National Parks (SANParks) on Monday reported a hippo attack close to the Kruger National Park’s Paul Kruger Gate.

The incident involved a team from the Biodiversity Social Project, which falls under the Working for Water Programme, based at the Kruger Park.

They were clearing alien plants along the Sabie River when the hippo charged at them in the thick bush close to the riverbank.

The group was accompanied by two-armed field guards who fired shots at the animal.

Three individuals were injured.

The hippo fled back to the river.

Injuries ‘not life threatening’

The injured workers were stabilised by the Skukuza doctor who then transferred them to a nearby hospital for further treatment and observation.

The injuries are described as “serious, but not life threatening”.

KNP Management has sent a message of support to the injured, wishing them a speedy recovery.

The names of the injured are being withheld until their next of kin have been notified.

Emergency hotline

Earlier in the year, a restaurant employee was bitten on the arm by a hyena while sleeping in the Berg-en-Dal staff living quarters.

As reported by The South African website, the hyena was euthanised following the attack.

Kruger National Park Emergency Hotline: 013 7354325 or 013 7350197 or 076 8019679

Love elephants?

Over 30 years ago, seven elephant bulls, all with tusks weighing more than 50kg each, could be found in the Kruger National Park.

Learn more about the Kruger National Park’s ‘Magnificent Seven’ elephants.