Stranded impalas rescued in Zim
RISING waters in Zimbabwe’s massive Kariba Dam saw a herd of impala stranded on a small island where there was no food.
“Four men and a boat” rescued them and a couple of furry friends and dropped them all onto the mainland so they can survive the dry winter months.
These were citizens and officials from the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.
The Kariba Animal Welfare Fund Trust said it had received a number of reports of the trapped animals.
“A number of reports received from visitors and residents led to this amazing team rescue of impala trapped, due to rising lake levels, on an island near Kings Camp,” the trust said.
“Not one tree for shade and fast running out of feed.”
A collective effort comprising, among others, of rangers from Matusadona and Tashinga parks, Kariba and Charara safari area parks, quickly sprung into action.
“Every impala was safely returned to the mainland, along with two unexpectedly marooned furry friends – two hares.
“An amazing accomplishment, with no injuries to either sides, and no fatalities of the animals in the move.
“Thanks to the organisation by Zimparks – Kariba, Matusadona, HQ and Parks/Fisheries ecologists.
“Well done and thank you to all,” the trust said in an emotive Facebook video post.
The trust also appealed for donations towards the fuel used by the people involved in rescuing and ferrying the stranded impala from the island to dry land.