The rewilding of Maputo National Park started in 2010. By 2024, more than 5 385 animals had been translocated into the park. A helicopter aerial census in 2023 counted 13 800 game animals, indicating healthy growth in the population, so much so that more predators were required to keep the ecosystem balanced. The park had only five spotted hyena as part of the carnivore guild, and we are here to film the final part in the relocation of three more from Sabie Game Park.
These three hyenas have been in a boma for a month and a half to settle down and get over the stress of being captured and transported, and to learn about their new environment. They have adapted well and are looking healthy. They have built reserves whilst being fed in the boma and are ready for release.
Hyena are tricky at the best of times and these were extra skittish with the vehicle around, so the team got creative. One of the wildlife vets from Mozambique Wildlife Alliance hid while a vehicle drove in circles around the boma, slowly guiding the hyenas towards the vet. With teamwork, quick thinking, and a bit of patience, the team manage to dart all three and get them ready for their move, under careful supervision, to the eastern part of the park away from communities.
Hyena are not only great scavengers, but they are also skilled hunters and super social animals. Their teamwork and levels of communication are top notch which helps them thrive and keep the park’s environment balanced.
Rewilding predators is extremely rewarding as they typically follow introductions of prey species – the ultimate testimony to translocation success. Peace Parks is very grateful to be part of it and cherish the partnership with Mozambique’s National Administration for Conservation Areas, that has rewilded and restored Maputo National Park. It is only through effective partnerships that conservation at scale is possible.
Stay tuned to Peace Parks TV for more on the ground action.
