Poisoned Cow Carcass Kills 6 Lions and 34 Vultures Near Amboseli National Park
A shocking wildlife poisoning incident along the Kenya–Tanzania border has claimed the lives of at least six lions and 34 vultures, prompting an urgent cross-border investigation.
The animals are believed to have died after feeding on a deliberately poisoned cow carcass in the Kitenden area, just outside Amboseli National Park. The tragic event took place two days ago and has been described by conservationists as one of the most severe poisoning cases ever recorded in the greater Amboseli ecosystem.
Kenyan and Tanzanian wildlife authorities have launched a joint investigation, with reports indicating that two suspects from Tanzania are currently under close watch as inquiries deepen.
In a strong response, leaders of the Kitenden Conservancy and the Orgulului/Olalarashi Group Ranch have imposed an immediate and indefinite ban on livestock grazing by herders from Kitenden village in Tanzania within the conservancy.
The restriction will remain in force until the suspects are arrested and legal proceedings are concluded.
Daniel ole Leturesh, Chairman of the Orgulului/Olalarashi Group Ranch, explained the tough measure:“No livestock from Kitenden village will be allowed into the conservancy until the culprits are identified and handed over to authorities. Accountability must come first for harmony to prevail.”The decision has won support from leaders on both sides of the border.
Loomoni Olesiate Mole, Councillor for Olmolo Ward in Tanzania’s Longido District, said the temporary ban is essential to prevent escalating community tensions and to safeguard wildlife:
“This measure is meant to stop conflict between communities and to ensure justice for the wildlife.”
Tanzanian authorities have also promised decisive action. John Magembe, Chief Officer for Wildlife Management at the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area, assured the public:
“The government of Tanzania will ensure that the perpetrators are arrested and that the law takes its course.”
Sayialel Ole Noombaek, Chairman of Kitenden Conservancy, reinforced the hardline position:
“Wildlife protection is non-negotiable. Grazing will not resume until all suspects are arraigned in court.”
Conservationists are particularly alarmed by the loss of 34 vultures, describing it as a major blow to an already critically endangered species. Vultures serve a vital ecological role by cleaning up carcasses, helping control disease spread and maintain ecosystem health. Continued poisoning incidents threaten the long-term balance of the Amboseli landscape.
The Kitenden poisoning now represents a critical test of cross-border cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania. Conservation groups warn that any failure to deliver swift justice could undo decades of hard-won progress in protecting this iconic wildlife corridor.
