Lions of Sabi Sands

[Ngala]

#ShockWildlifeTruths: No treatment for Sabi's mange-infected lions
2016-10-24 15:46

Cape Town - A game reserve bordering Kruger National Park says it does not plan for now to treat a number of lions suffering from a bad case of mange.

Sabi Sand Wildtuin said in a statement that the reserve had a "stated policy of non-intervention related to the natural occurrences of free-ranging animals within the reserve, which is an open ecological system."

"Therefore in regard to the deteriorating condition of certain lions within the Styx Pride in Sabi Sand it is incumbent on management to adhere strictly to this stated policy," the statement says.

Debate has been raging on Facebook for 10 days or so after wildlife photographer Inuz du Preez posted photos of mange-infested lions at the private sanctuary.

Mange is a skin disease spread by mites that's often found in pet dogs but can affect other animals. Cases of mange have been recorded also in cheetahs, wild dogs, impala and springbok in Africa, wolves in Europe and wombats in Australia, among other animals. It can kill. 

The photographer said there were two cubs and two females in the "Styx pride" that were affected with mange.

Some wildlife lovers have argued that the lions should be treated (and have even offered to help with funds to treat them). But there are others who believe nature should be allowed to take its course.

Said the statement from Sabi Sand, "Unless the incident is of an anthropogenic nature such as snares, poisoning, road accident or any situation of a man-made nature the Sabi Sand Wildtuin will not intervene but rather allow nature's processes to take their natural course."  

"Management will continue to monitor the situation and keep its members and interested parties informed," it added.

Drew Abrahamson, Owner of Captured In Africa-Exclusive Safaris and Founder of Captured In Africa Foundation posted a link to du Preez' photographs on Facebook, expressing her concerns in detail:

https://www.facebook.com/drew.abrahamson...6906135328

She also told Traveller24,"Being involved in the rescuing and relocating of lions, with wild lion numbers decreasing the way that they are, I don't believe we have time on our hands to wait and see. Many don't agree...but many more do. People intervene everyday with regards to wildlife, if it were Rhino something would have been done, why should it be different with Lion?"

In one prominent case reported by the Los Angeles Times, a 6-year-old mountain lion first photographed with lesions and scabs on his face due to mange in 2014 was found to be healthy this year. The animal had taken up residence in a municipal park in Los Angeles, California and was treated for the disease. Researchers suspected this puma's mange might have been linked to exposure to rat poison.

What do you think, should the Sabi Sand's lions be treated or left alone? We'd like you to share your view with us - email [email protected]. Reply