On 25 August 2025, a routine rhino-tracking patrol in Gondwana Canyon Park turned into an important conservation milestone. Our rangers came across a female brown hyena caught in one of the predator cages placed on the neighbouring farm of Mr. Willie Lofty-Eaton. The animal had injured her nose while attempting to escape, but was otherwise in good condition.
This event stems from a verbal agreement last year between Gondwana Canyon Park and Mr. Lofty-Eaton. Recognising the recurring damage to his river-border fence caused by wildlife movement, he proposed removing a section of the fence and opening a waterpoint on his land for wildlife use. The arrangement not only provided essential access to water for our park’s animals, but also reduced fence maintenance pressures for both parties.
Photo: Female brown hyena found in cage
The only challenge raised during these negotiations was the presence of predator catch cages on his property. After constructive discussions, an important compromise was reached: the cages would remain in place, but any captured predators, such as brown hyenas, leopards, or cheetahs, would be released safely into Gondwana Canyon Park, away from farming activities.
The capture and release of this female hyena is the first practical demonstration of that agreement in action. Instead of facing certain death, as is too often the fate of predators caught near farmlands, she was successfully relocated deeper into the park, where she can continue to play her critical ecological role.
This collaboration highlights the value of partnerships between conservation areas and neighbouring farmers. By finding shared solutions, we not only reduce conflict but also ensure the survival of key species. What could have been another unnecessary loss to Namibia’s predator population became a conservation success, strengthening both Gondwana Canyon Park’s mission and our relationship with surrounding landowners.
Video: Female brown hyena released into Gondwana Canyon Park
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