ATHI, Kenya – The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has successfully rescued an adult male Maasai giraffe that was found with a wire snare tightly wrapped around its right hind leg at ILRI Athi Kapiti Ranch..
In a statement issued on Tuesday, KWS said its Headquarters Veterinary Unit swiftly responded after receiving reports of the injured giraffe on July 7.
Veterinary officers safely restrained the animal, removed the plain wire snare and treated the injury before releasing it back into its habitat. KWS said the giraffe is expected to make a full recovery, describing its prognosis as good.
The wildlife agency said the rescue demonstrates the vital work carried out daily by its veterinary teams, who respond to wildlife emergencies across the country to save injured animals and support conservation efforts.
“This is what KWS veterinarians do every day. They work around the clock, responding to emergencies, treating injured wildlife, and helping protect Kenya’s incredible biodiversity,” the agency said.
KWS warned that wire snares remain one of the biggest threats to wildlife, often linked to illegal hunting and other wildlife crimes. The devices can inflict severe injuries, permanent disability or death on animals that become trapped.
The agency appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspected wildlife crimes through its 24-hour toll-free hotline, WhatsApp channel or the nearest KWS station.
According to KWS, public cooperation is essential in the fight against wildlife crime and in protecting Kenya’s rich biodiversity from preventable threats.
The rescue comes as the agency intensifies efforts to combat illegal snares and other dangers facing wildlife, emphasizing that rapid veterinary intervention and timely public reporting can significantly improve the survival of injured animals.
KWS urged Kenyans to play an active role in conservation, saying collective action is critical to safeguarding the country’s wildlife heritage for future generations.