SWT/KWS Mobile Vet Units were in action across Kenya last week, completing 14 veterinary treatments. Our Mara team responded to this case.

Watch to the end to hear KWS veterinarian Dr. Njoroge summarise the treatment: The lioness, who was the lead hunter for her pride, sustained her injury during a kill. After darting and moving her to an open area for treatment, the team assessed the wound. Initially, they feared her leg was fractured — which wouldn't be treatable — but it turned out to be nerve damage. She was also covered in puncture wounds, likely inflicted by the warthog she was hunting. The team tended to her wounds and administered medication to aid healing.

While the patient recovers, she will need to rely on her pride for food. Fortunately, lion society is fluid: When a key hunter is sidelined by injury, others in the pride step up to fill the role. Dr. Njoroge is optimistic about her prognosis.

After treatment, she got up and rejoined her pride, who were waiting nearby.