Stray lionesses returned to Nairobi National Park after night operation
By Kiprono Keileb, January 8, 2026Kenya Wildlife Service has successfully returned two lionesses that had wandered outside Nairobi National Park, ensuring public safety and the protection of the animals.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, January 8, 2026, KWS provided an update on the situation, saying the lionesses were tracked using earthrangers system and safely guided into the Nairobi National Park.
“The two lionesses earlier sighted outside Nairobi National Park have been successfully tracked using the EarthRanger system and safely guided back into the park by KWS patrol teams during the night. The situation is fully under control, and the public may safely go on with their normal activities,” the statement reads.
KWS also acknowledged the role of the community in helping manage the incident.
“We thank members of the public for their calmness, cooperation, and timely reporting, which greatly supported the safe resolution of this incident and ensured the protection of both people and wildlife,” the statement reads
The agency emphasised that wildlife conservation relies on collaboration between authorities and citizens.
“This outcome highlights that conservation is a shared responsibility. Through collaboration between KWS, partners, stakeholders, and local communities, we continue to protect our wildlife and coexist safely with nature,” the statement reads.
The incident began earlier today when the two lionesses were spotted wandering outside the park, raising concerns about possible human-wildlife conflict. KWS mobilised patrol units and utilised the EarthRanger tracking system to monitor their movements and plan a safe return.
KWS has confirmed that the animals no longer pose a threat and that measures are in place to prevent future incidents. The authority has also urged citizens to remain alert and to notify authorities immediately if they notice wildlife straying from the park.