SANParks says prolonged drought impacting animals

SANParks said that the increasing number of carcasses and visibly undernourished animals in several parks is a reminder of how deeply the ongoing drought is reshaping ecosystems.

It said that while the scenes may unsettle tourists, they reflect a natural ecological response to a prolonged drought.

Areas around Nxuba, formerly Cradockand Beaufort West are among the hardest hit.

Spokesperson JP Louw said that because animals in national parks are confined to protected boundaries, they can’t migrate as they once did to find better grazing, making them more vulnerable during extended drought cycles.

"Once the rains return, conditions of animals usually recover. This natural trend is expected to re-occur in these instances."