설명
Concerns have recently been raised on social media regarding “Casper”, the well-known white lion that frequents the Satara area of Kruger National Park. Some posts suggested that he might be suffering from anthrax or that he had been bitten by a snake, with calls from members of the public for intervention.
SANParks has confirmed that Casper was located and examined by veterinarians. Both anthrax and snake bite have been ruled out. Casper is in good condition, although he has visible injuries above his right eye and inside his mouth, most likely caused by a bite from another lion. These wounds are the source of the swelling and infection on his face.
Casper is regarded as an elder at 11 years of age, soon to turn 12. He is one of the last two surviving males from a once-powerful coalition of four brothers, of whom two have already died. This coalition has since been displaced by two younger and stronger males now dominant in the Satara area.
Casper’s white colouring is the result of a rare recessive gene that causes a loss of pigmentation in the skin and fur, making him a unique and highly sought-after sighting in Kruger National Park.
Game drive etiquette rules:
– When you come across a sighting, slowly pull over on the side of the road closest to the animal, but keep a safe distance
– If there are animals in the road, immediately stop at least 20 m from them
– The lane furthest from the sighting should never be blocked, so that others can pass if they want to
– Don’t linger longer than a few minutes at a sighting, so that others can view it too
– Never go off the designated roads
– Never climb out of your vehicle during a drive, or hang out of your car windows or sunroof
– Don’t hoot or blare loud music
– Avoid driving into vegetation, as this could damage the environment or kill small animals
– During night drives, never shine a spotlight directly in animals’ eyes
– Never make noise to get animals to move, stand up or otherwise react for pictures
– Respect the rangers, and always comply with their requests or instructions