ZimParks Clears Lion Rumours in Chegutu, Identifies Hyena Spoor

CHEGUTU – The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has dismissed claims of lion sightings in Chegutu, confirming that the tracks discovered in the area belong to hyenas.

The announcement follows rising concern among locals who reported hearing roars and spotting what they believed to be lions at night.

Wildlife officers were dispatched to investigate the reports and examine the spoors found near the community. After a detailed analysis, experts ruled out the presence of lions.

“We have done the necessary investigations following the reports and I can confidently say the spoor found does not belong to a lion. It is hyenas that are moving around the area, not lions,” said ZimParks spokesperson Mr Tinashe Farawo.

The claims had caused panic among some villagers, fearing for their safety and livestock

According to The Herald, Mr Farawo urged residents to avoid spreading misleading information, warning that false alarms often result in wasted resources and unnecessary concern.

“Most of the time when we are called into an area that is said to have lions, it turns out to be dogs or other animals. People must report sightings responsibly and allow experts to verify the facts,” he said.

To assist the public in identifying animal tracks, Mr Farawo explained how to tell lion and hyena spoor apart. Lion tracks are larger and rounder, with four toes and no claw marks due to retractable claws.

However, hyena tracks are smaller and oval-shaped, with visible claw marks as hyenas lack retractable claws.

ZimParks said it continues to monitor wildlife movements across Zimbabwe, particularly near protected conservation areas.

“We are a conservation authority and our duty is to ensure both human safety and wildlife protection. Communities should work closely with our officers and only share information that is accurate and verified,” Mr Farawo added.