The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has responded after a hyena was spotted in Syokimau along Mwananchi Road off Eastport Drive.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 12, KWS said its Problem Animal Control (PAC) team had been deployed to the area.
KWS stated that although the animal was not directly sighted by the responding Problem Animal Control (PAC) team, fresh footprints confirmed its recent movement within the area.
“Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) wishes to assure residents of Syokimau and surrounding areas that response operations are ongoing following reports of a hyena sighting on Sunday, May 10, 2026, along Mwananchi Road off Eastport Drive,” read the notice in part.
KWS Issues Safety Warning to Residents After Hyena Spotted in Syokimau
The agency said ground surveillance and monitoring operations have since been intensified.
According to KWS, preliminary indications suggest that the hyena is moving through bushy, isolated terrain behind the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) towards Katani.
Also Read: Do Not Run; KWS Warns as Hyena Attacks Worsen in Juja
The wildlife service assured the public that all necessary precautionary measures are being undertaken and there is no cause for panic.
Residents, however, have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid approaching or provoking the animal, keep children under close supervision, and report any wildlife sightings to the nearest KWS station or local authorities.
“KWS remains committed to safeguarding both human life and wildlife,” the agency said.
The toll-free emergency and assistance contact (24-hour support) is 0800 597 000.
In a video shared online, the wild animal was seen wandering around the residential estate after emerging from a bush, as some residents recorded the unusual sight.
Also Read: Hunger? Thika Residents Slaughter and Eat Hyena Meat
Such cases of wildlife straying into residential areas have occasionally been reported in Nairobi’s fast-growing suburbs, which border natural habitats and wildlife corridors.
Safety Tips After Spotting a Hyena
In light of past attacks across the country, the Wildlife Service advises Kenyans not to run if they encounter a wild animal, as this may provoke a chase due to the animal’s natural instincts.
This comes after the Kenya Wildlife Service intensified efforts in 2024 to track wild scavengers following several reports of attacks, deaths, and rising human–hyena conflict.
Under the Ondoa Fisi operation, the service also deployed a specialized ranger unit across key areas, including Juja Farm, Thika West, Ruiru, and Athi River.
One of the ways KWS suggested locals could protect themselves was to stay still rather than run during a confrontation with a wild animal.
“When confronted by a hyena, do not give it your back and do not run away. Remember running away encourages the hyena to chase and attack you,” it stated.
