Fifteen elephants found dead over the past month in one of Kenya’s most famous national parks may have succumbed to cyanide poisoning. According to a preliminary investigation, the toxic substance could have entered the animals’ bodies through pesticides used on neighboring farms, representatives of wildlife protection agencies reported on July 30.
The elephants died in Amboseli National Park, located near the border with Tanzania, which is home to some of Africa’s most renowned elephant herds. The preliminary investigation indicated that the animals ingested cyanide. Duncan Juma Wanyama, a spokesman for the Kenya Wildlife Service, told AFP that it is a “toxic substance… that is very deadly, very poisonous.” He stated that once it enters an elephant’s body, it affects the lungs and liver.
Suspected contaminated tomatoes
Investigators suggest that the elephants may have consumed tomatoes contaminated with “very strong pesticides,” Wanyama said. Tomatoes were found in the stomachs of several elephants from one herd, which were likely attracted to the unripe fruits on neighboring farms. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains unclear whether the poisoning was accidental or intentional.
At least one elephant died directly on a farm where tomatoes were grown. Other animals, despite receiving treatment from veterinarians, attempted to reach the watering hole but died after a few days. Nine female elephants with calves and an adult male exhibited similar symptoms, including partial paralysis, which prevented them from standing.
The causes of death for the remaining five elephants could not be determined because their carcasses were too decomposed or scavenged. Wildlife officials are also investigating whether other farmers in the area use the same chemicals. Amboseli is world-famous for its elephant herds and savannas with views of Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania.
Source: The Straits Times
