The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has offered important advice to Juja residents who might encounter hyenas, which have been involved in several attacks in the area.
One critical piece of advice is to avoid running when confronted by a hyena. Running triggers a predator’s instinct to chase, increasing the likelihood of an attack.
Instead, residents are encouraged to maintain eye contact with the animal, as this can help assert dominance and reduce the hyena’s aggression.
Additionally, KWS recommends staying calm and even talking to the hyena, which helps to create a sense of control and may dissuade the animal from attacking.
Other tips include avoiding movement at night, as hyenas are nocturnal hunters, and standing your ground if the animal starts growling or making noises like giggling.
If forced to move, it’s advised to keep facing the hyena while backing away slowly.
This guidance from KWS comes as a response to increased hyena attacks, and though some advice, like talking to the animal, sparked humorous reactions online, these measures are rooted in wildlife safety strategies that aim to protect both people and animals.
