A member of the Pilanesberg National Park K9 unit, Kobus Marais died on Saturday, February 6. He was attacked by a lion while on patrol and succumbed to his injuries.
Marais was described by the Pilanesberg National Park and Wildlife Trust as a ‘true wildlife warrior and nature lover’.
‘While out on patrol, Kobus Marais of the K-9 unit and 2 other RPU [rhino protection unit] staff, were laying a track for Kobus’s K9 patrol dog. Unbeknownst to Kobus a very thin, poor conditioned lion was probably lying in wait,’ said the Trust in a Facebook post.
The RPU staff shot the lion in an attempt to save Marais’ life but were unsuccessful. The lion was taken to Onderstepoort for a post mortem to determine if anything was wrong with it, explained the Trust.
The incident is currently being investigated.
‘The Rhinos have lost a true friend and conservation has lost a warrior. Kobus was loved by all the staff in the Pilanesberg. He was a kind and compassionate person. To Lottie Marais, his wife, we express our most heartfelt condolences. We are so, so sorry for your tragic loss. Also his family and all the friends. You are all in our thoughts,’ continued the post.
Condolences have been pouring in for the Marais family.
Sadly Pilanesberg lost a true wildlife warrior and nature lover yesterday morning.
While out on patrol, Kobus Marais…
Posted by Pilanesberg National Park & Wildlife Trust on Sunday, 7 February 2021
Picture: Pilanesberg National Park and Wildlife Trust / Facebook
