Wednesday, June 21, 2006

NOW LIONS FACE REAL FAMINE

Hungry lions rampaging in Kenya

There has been a shortage of food for wildlife after a severe droughtAt least three people have been killed in attacks by a pride of lions in North-Eastern Kenya.

The BBC's Bashkash Jugsodaay says there is a shortage of food for the lions after a severe drought in the region.

Wildlife stocks have also been depleted over the years by militia from neighbouring Somalia who hunt for food.

Pastoralists have been fleeing in fear to the border town of Liboi for safety. Some 50 goats have also been killed in attacks over the last two weeks.

Our correspondent says the lions have been killing more than they can eat on their rampages.

Communities that rely on animals as a store of wealth as well as source of food have already lost thousands of animals in the drought, leaving them destitute.