ESCAPED LION NEAR VENTERSBURG DURING LOADSHEDDING

It seems as if loadshedding is not only having an effect on the country’s economy, but also on its wildlife.

A female lion escaped during loadshedding on Friday. The lioness escaped from a wildlife enclosure near Ventersburg in the Free State.

Captain Stephen Thakeng, a spokesperson for the South African Police Service said the search is on for the lion. Volunteers from the area, the SPCA, local farmers and also a private helicopter.

News24 reports that according to residents, the lioness escaped from the Tara Wildlife Lodge. The lioness apparently was able to escape because the electrified gate was out of order due to load shedding and could not serve its purpose of keeping the animals inside.

Ernest Khakhau, an inspector of the SPCA in Virginia confirmed that the lioness hasn’t been spotted yet and is still on the loose.

Local residents have been asked to let police or the SPCA know if they spot the lioness and have also been warned not to approach the wild animal.

Image credit: Snow Africa Adventure