KWS rescues giraffe caught in wire snare at Athi Kapiti Ranch

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has rescued an adult male Maasai giraffe that was found with a wire snare tightly wrapped around its right hind limb at ILRI Athi Kapiti Ranch.

In a statement shared on Tuesday, KWS said its Headquarters Veterinary Unit responded quickly after receiving the report on July 7.

The team safely removed the plain wire snare, treated the injury and gave the animal what the agency described as a second chance.

KWS said the giraffe is expected to recover, noting that the prognosis for recovery is good.

The wildlife agency said the incident highlights the critical role played by its veterinary teams, who respond to emergencies involving injured wild animals across the country.

"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."

KWS warned that wire snares continue to pose a major danger to wildlife and are frequently associated with wildlife crime.

The agency urged members of the public to report any suspected wildlife crime to help protect Kenya's animals and habitats.

"If you witness or suspect wildlife crime, report it immediately," KWS said, directing the public to its 24-hour toll-free hotline, WhatsApp channel or the nearest KWS station.

The rescue comes amid continued efforts by KWS to combat threats facing wildlife, including illegal snares that can cause severe injuries or death to animals.

KWS appealed for greater public participation in wildlife conservation, saying collective action is key to safeguarding the country's natural heritage.

"Together, let's keep Kenya's wildlife thriving for generations to come," the agency said.

The successful rescue of the giraffe underscores the importance of rapid veterinary response and public vigilance in protecting Kenya's wildlife from preventable threats such as wire snares.