St Lucia hippo attack took place in ‘unprotected part’ of park
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park Authority says this week's hippo attack took place in an unprotected part of the park.
A 50-year-old woman was seriously injured on Wednesday when she was trampled by the animal.
It's understood she, daughter and partner had been out for a night swim.
iSimangaliso's Bheki Manzini says the incident happened in the Eastern Shores of the Lake St Lucia next to The Bridge Lodge.
“According to the preliminary report three individuals, including an elderly female estimated to be 50 years old (who was attacked by the hippo) allegedly went into an unprotected nearby wetland which have a clear signage of dangerous wildlife habitat such as crocodiles and hippos.
“These individuals were guest at The Bridge Lodge and it is alleged that they were attempting to go swim in the lake St Lucia when a hippo which was grassing in the bush attacked her and left her with severe injuries on her left leg and she is currently receiving medical attention at a private hospital in Durban.
“iSimangaliso would like to express our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the injured women and wish her a speedy recovery.”
