By Rutendo Mapfumo

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), team from the Vic Falls Wildlife Trust made a grim discovery recently while tracking a collared lion.

They stumbled upon a scene that laid bare the realities of poaching in the region- a dead lion had been gruesomely mutilated, with its flesh stripped away and its claws and head removed. This heinous act highlights the ongoing battle against wildlife crime and the urgent need for conservation efforts.

In what can be described as a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy, the tracking team also encountered a second lion—an adult male—who was found alive but ensnared in a cruel poaching trap. Thanks to the quick actions of veterinary doctors, the injured lion received prompt medical attention and was successfully rescued from the snare, demonstrating the potential for recovery and rehabilitation in such critical situations.

ZimParks has strongly condemned the barbaric poaching incident and has pledged to collaborate closely with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to ensure that those responsible for these crimes are brought to justice.

Tinashe Farawo, ZimParks spokesperson was deeply concerned with the increase in lion poaching, emphasising the organisation’s commitment to combatting this pressing issue.

“We are worried about the rising cases of lion poaching, and we will continue to work with the Police and other conservation partners to curb this challenge,” Farawo stated.

The incident has raised significant concerns about the safety and preservation of wildlife in the area. ZimParks rangers and specialised anti-poaching units have since intensified their efforts, conducting thorough snare-sweeping patrols aimed at protecting vulnerable animal populations and deterring future poaching activities.

As the struggle to safeguard Zimbabwe’s endangered wildlife continues, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers these creatures face. Collaboration between conservation authorities, law enforcement, and local communities is crucial to ensuring that similar tragedies do not occur in the future and to securing a safer environment for all wildlife in the region.

The fight against poaching remains more critical than ever, as the need to protect these majestic animals is paramount to preserving the natural heritage of Zimbabwe.

New Ziana