A female Cape leopard was hit by a motor vehicle on the N1 between Worcester and De Doorns last night. Sadly, the big cat succumbed to her wounds.
In an official statement, CapeNature spokesperson Loren Pavvitt confirmed the incident. “A Cape leopard was hit by a vehicle along the N1 highway between Worcester and De Doorns on Monday evening, April 8 around 7pm.”
Taking into account the safety and protection of the animal, along with the threat the animal poses to humans, careful consideration was given to “determine the most appropriate action” following the incident.
Reports state that the leopard was hit in the head by the vehicle and was rushed to a nearby veterinarian at the Worcester Animal Clinic. CapeNature said that during the prognosis, the animal passed away.
The veterinarian confirmed that the leopard was a mature, non-lactating female. The governmental organisation responsible for the natural biodiversity conversation said that the wild cat’s body “will be retained, and contribute towards valuable research”.
CapeNature is reminding motorists to cautious when driving in an area that has designated signs cautioning drivers of animals in the area.
“Motorists are urged to be vigilant when observing warning signs indicating animal activity in the vicinity, particularly along mountain passes bordered with natural vegetation, where wildlife roam in the landscape.”
Pavitt thanks the members of the public who reported the incident. “CapeNature would further like to acknowledge the swift reaction by members of the public for contacting and notifying conservation authorities of the incident.”
Picture: Cape Leopard Nature Trust, Houtema River Cabins