2% of the world’s rarest zebras wiped out in Kenya’s relentless drought
Nairobi (GPO) – Three zebras recently found in Kenya are the first to be found in the country since the drought started in 2002.
The three animals were found in the capital and Nairobi.
All are said to be male and their average weight was said to be between 350 and 495 kg, the country’s veterinarian and department of the environment said.
“This is the first time that these animals have been found in Kenya. These young animals were on a steep hill and they were unable to run so they were left there to die,” said veterinary officer, Dr. Richard Mutua.
At present no fresh water or food can be found at the site where the animals were found.
The drought has affected the country’s livestock and farmers face a critical shortage of food and fodder.
It is being blamed for the deaths of at least 50,000 cattle, 4,000 goats and 1,200 sheep.
The government is seeking to have the first batch of seeds imported to replace the grasses ruined after the drought.