Image: Imbali
New footage of a young male leopard lazing on the hood of a safari vehicle during a game drive in the Kruger National Park has surfaced online.
The hair-raising incident, which has stirred controversy worldwide, shows a leopard lazing on the hood of an open game vehicle in the Kruger National Park.
New footage from the sighting has surfaced, from the safari guide’s point of view.
‘Too close for comfort’ does not cut it when describing this encounter.
WATCH:
Guests of Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, a private concession in the Greater Kruger National Park, were aboard the vehicle when the incident occurred.
Following the too close for comfort sighting, the lodge released a statement detailing the event and its strict protocol regarding wildlife interactions.
As per Good Things Guy, the lodge writes:
“We wish to address an unfortunate incident involving a young male leopard, that has recently displayed unusually inquisitive behavior towards the safari vehicles. Footage has been shared showing this young leopard jumping onto the bonnet of a Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge vehicle. The incident took place during a sighting whilst two cubs and their mother were feeding on an impala. The situation quickly escalated when the male cub moved towards the vehicle and unexpectedly jumped up. SANParks officials were immediately notified of the incident.
We would like to firmly reiterate that Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge does not condone this type of interaction in any form. Our strict protocols are designed to protect both our guests and the wildlife we are privileged to observe, ensuring that all encounters happen in a safe and respectful manner. Guest safety, responsible wildlife viewing, and the respectful preservation of natural behavior are at the heart of everything we do.”
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