Leopard runs wild in Tshwane

Department seeks public assistance in looking for the escaped creature

The Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment has confirmed that a leopard has been seen around the Roodeplaat Dam Nature Reserve area.

Conservation officials and nearby residents are working together to find the leopard.

If it’s spotted, a wildlife veterinarian will be called to safely tranquilize the animal and move it to a protected area.

The leopard’s origin and owner are currently unknown, and investigations are underway. Leopards are most active at night, but they can also be seen during the day.

As a precaution, please be careful when visiting the Roodeplaat Dam Nature Reserve.

“Leopards are dangerous animals and therefore members of the community visiting the
Roodeplaat Dam Nature Reserve are advised to be cautious,” said the department’s Andile Gumede.

The Department emphasizes that leopards shouldn’t be kept as pets. Instead, they should be in registered zoos or sanctuaries for rehabilitation purposes.