Buffallo released back in Lochinvar

The Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) is pleased to inform you that it has successfully captured and released back safely into Lochinvar National Park, a female Buffalo that had recently strayed into the farming community of Monze district.

ZAWA last week received a report from farm owner, Terry Johns,that a Buffalo had left the Park and mingled with herds of his cattle. There was fear that it would cause disease to the cattle and possible human wildlife conflict.

ZAWA immediately sent officers to the area who, after three hours of intensive searching spotted the animal in the thicket of the farm. The officers darted the Buffalo, blindfolded it and carried it back to the Park where the immobilising drug was reversed for it to awaken and join the Herd of other buffalos.

ZAWA’s ability to successfully employ the darting method that ensures that the animal is taken back into the Park alive as opposed to instances where control is done by killing, demonstrates the Authority’s commitment to conservation efforts.

ZAWA would also like to commend the community and in particular Mr Johns, who not only reported the matter to ZAWA in time to save the save the Buffalo from being poached or causing human wildlife conflicts, but also assisted in its translocation.

The ZAWA team under the leadership of Head of Veterinary Dr David Squarre is also in Chiawa, to capture lions that are reported to have strayed from Lower Zambezi National Park. The team will use use the same darting method to ensure the animals are released back into the park alive and safe.

 Article by: Zambia Wildlife Authority