Recent incidents in the Juja area of Kiambu county have sparked concerns over the safety of residents due to a series of aggressive attacks by hyenas, resulting in tragic fatalities.
Most recently, a 10-year-old boy named Dennis Teya lost his life in a brutal hyena mauling while returning home with friends.
Despite concerted efforts by a team of 20 Kenya Wildlife Service officers to track down the rogue animals in villages within Witeithie and Kalimoni wards, the attacks persisted. These alarming events follow a pattern of hyena-related fatalities, including the recent killing of Joyce Wambui in Nyacaba village, and the previous loss of a 9-year-old boy.
According to eyewitnesses, young Dennis Teya was dragged to a nearby swamp by the hyenas, where they attacked and devoured him before being driven away by local residents. These tragic incidents have prompted authorities to intensify measures to ensure community safety and prevent further attacks.
The hyena, Africa’s most common large carnivore, is a shaggy, untidy, and opportunistic carnivore with a distinctive, sloping back. It is a member of the dog family, weighing around 60kg (males can be heavier) and standing at about 80cm at the shoulder.
How to avoid a hyena attack
In light of the increased attacks, Kenyans have been advised to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines in the event of a hyena encounter.
However, one particular suggestion from the Kenya Wildlife Service has elicited mixed reactions on social media. The advisory recommends maintaining calmness and engaging verbally with the hyena if confronted, prompting skepticism among some Kenyans about its effectiveness.
Here are some safety tips provided by the KWS to avoid hyena attacks:
- Stop: Running may trigger their predatory instincts.
- Do not lie down: Pretending to be dead can pique their curiosity.
- Remain calm: Avoid displaying fear and try to maintain a composed demeanor by talking to the hyena.
- Minimize movements at night: Given that hyenas are nocturnal, exercise caution when moving during nighttime.
- Face the hyena: Do not move away until the hyena does and continue facing its direction.
- Stand your ground: If the hyena growls or giggles, maintain your position without moving closer.
- Make noise: Be loud, appear assertive, and project an intimidating presence to deter the hyena.
