Six lions in the Maasai Mara’s Oleisukut Conservancy have survived a suspected case of poisoning after a swift response from veterinary experts saved the pride from what could have been a tragic loss.
KWS, in a statement shared on X on Monday, September 29, 2025, noted that the lions were reported to be weak and disoriented, showing clear signs of poisoning, prompting an urgent call to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) veterinary unit.
They shared that a team was immediately dispatched to the scene, where emergency treatment was administered to stabilise the animals.
“Six lions in Oleisukut Conservancy – Maasai Mara, were reported showing signs of poisoning. Our veterinary team responded swiftly, administering emergency treatment, stabilising the pride, and relocating them to safety,” KWS shared.
The pride was then relocated to a secure area for further monitoring, with officials confirming that four of the lions have already made a full recovery.
The service added that two others are still under close observation but are said to be stable and improving.
“Thankfully, all six survived – four have fully recovered while two remain under close monitoring,” KWS wrote.
KWS also noted that the cause of the suspected poisoning is under active investigation.
They revealed that wildlife officers are working closely with the conservancy management and local communities to determine the source and ensure that such an incident does not recur
“Kenya Wildlife Service remains steadfast in its mandate to conserve and protect Kenya’s iconic species. Investigations into the source of the poisoning are ongoing, with continuous monitoring of the pride in place,” the service added.
KWS reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s wildlife heritage, emphasising that every effort will be made to protect iconic species such as lions for both present and future generations.
“Investigations into the source of the poisoning are ongoing, with continuous monitoring of the pride in place. We reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding our wildlife heritage for current and future generations. #TunzaMaliYako,” they shared.
The Service also shared photos and videos showing the lions lying frail in a green thicket.
In one of the clips, a lion lay motionless on the ground, appearing as though it had died, while in another, one could only be seen weakly shaking its head as the rest of its body remained still.
