Last night, residents of Lower Kabete in Kiambu County were taken by surprise when a hyena was spotted roaming the area.
The sighting, which occurred in the late hours, left many locals on edge as they shared videos and stories on social media.
The hyena, a rare sight in residential areas, was seen wandering near homes and along the road, prompting concerns about safety.
According to witnesses, the animal appeared to be lost and confused, likely having strayed from a nearby forest or wildlife reserve.
In the video footage shared online, the hyena can be seen cautiously moving around, seemingly wary of its unfamiliar surroundings.
The residents quickly alerted local authorities, fearing that the hyena might pose a danger to people and pets in the area.
Despite the initial alarm, no injuries or attacks were reported.
However, the incident has sparked discussions among the community about the encroachment of wildlife into human habitats.
Some believe that deforestation and loss of natural habitats are driving wild animals closer to populated areas in search of food and shelter.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) was notified and dispatched a team to track and capture the hyena safely.
They urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid approaching wild animals if encountered.
The KWS team is also investigating how the hyena ended up in Lower Kabete, as such occurrences are rare and typically indicate a disruption in the animal’s natural habitat.
This unexpected visit by a wild hyena has served as a reminder to the people of Lower Kabete of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to protect natural environments and prevent similar incidents in the future.