Leopard kills toddler in the Kruger National Park
A leopard attacked and killed a 30-month old toddler in a camp located within the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Wednesday night.
Spokesperson for South African National Parks (SANParks), Ike Phaahla, says the attack took place at the Malelane Technical Services living Quarters.
He says the little boy was rushed to the Shongwe Hospital in Malelane, where he was certified dead.
Rangers were then deployed to find the animal.
"Upon the hearing of the incidents, rangers went out to search for the animal and shot it dead to remove the danger of another person falling victim, " says Phaahla.
According to Phaahla, the leopard has lost its fear for human beings.
He adds that the KNP is offering the necessary support to the family.
"In parks like the KNP, predators do interact with tourists and staff and at times it may result in species like leopard getting habituated to people and losing their fear. The change in natural behaviour can then lead to unfortunate incidents such as this."
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