Urban wildlife can co-exist but we humans get nervous
October 2013. In the past few weeks in South Africa there have been several reports of Brown hyena in and around Johannesburg. The vast majority of the time these reports have been welcomed by the public but there have also been expressions of concern and, unsurprisingly, fear, as many people are not familiar with these animals.
This week's incident, where a Brown hyena had lost its way in the Randburg Central Business District of Johannesburg is unusual because the species prefers secluded, quiet areas, and this animal was probably driven into the city in a confused effort to escape the heavily populated area in which it found itself wandering.
Over a period of two days, conservation organisations like the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), the NSPCA and FREEME tried to locate and monitor the animal's movements and to work with the public in ensuring both their, and the animals' safety and welfare.
Young female hyena
The animal, a young female, was subsequently darted in Randburg and taken to the Johannesburg Zoo. She had injured her paws and will be treated at the Zoo and kept there until a suitable release site can be found. Funding also needs to be sourced for a satellite collar to fit to her so that her post-release movements can be monitored.
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