Editor's Review

KFS has cautioned members of the public visiting Karura Forest following reports of an alleged python sighting in the forest.

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has issued an advisory to Kenyans visiting Karura Forest following reports of an alleged python sighting in the forest.

In a statement on Thursday, September 5, KFS said that the circulating reports of a python sighting in Karura are yet to be authenticated, but noted that pythons have been previously documented in the forest in 2019 and 2022.

“Information has been circulating regarding the sighting of a python in Karura forest in the course of this week.

“Kenya Forest Service notes that although pythons have been sighted within Karura in the past years, namely in 2019 and in 2022, the current sighting and the photo in circulation is yet to be authenticated,” read part of the statement.

As a precautionary measure, KFS advised all Karura Forest visitors to walk or jog along designated paths and tracks only.

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collage photo of an alleged python inside Karura Forest. 

The service also urged the visitors to report immediately to rangers in case they sight the python.

“However, as a precautionary measure, all visitors to the forest are advised to walk or jog along designated paths and tracks only.

“In case of any sighting, the matter should be reported immediately to KFS Forest Rangers located at the various gates,” KFS stated.

Further, KFS advised visitors with pets to consider keeping them on a leash along the designated tracks only.

Additionally, the service said it will collaborate with relevant government agencies to explore potential solutions to the matter and advise the public accordingly.

In 2019, after a python was sighted in Karura, the Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) association, which co-manages the forest, assured the public that pythons do not attack visitors unless they feel completely cornered.

“There is no need for joggers or bikers to worry. Pythons are harmless to people, unless, as with most animals, they are cornered or severely provoked. They are not venomous at all,” FKF stated.

Karura Forest is a popular recreational haven located off Limuru Road that attracts visitors for picnics, jogging, cycling, and nature walks.