Python Alert Issued for Karura Forest After Unverified Sighting

Nairobi, Kenya — 2025-09-05 19:30 EAT. Kenya Forest Service (KFS) cautioned visitors after an unverified python sighting was reported on a popular Karura Forest trail. Officials urged users to keep to marked paths and report any sightings to rangers. 

The Latest

KFS acknowledged a photo/video circulating online allegedly showing a large python inside Karura. The agency said the material is yet to be authenticated and increased patrols near the Lily Lake trail as a precaution. Status: developing. 

Context in Brief

Pythons have been recorded in Karura before, including sightings in 2019 and 2022. Conservation groups note African rock pythons are non-venomous and usually avoid conflict unless provoked. 

Law, Policy, and Process

• Constitution/Acts: KFS manages state forests under the Forest Conservation and Management Act; KWS assists on wildlife matters.

• Mandates: KFS oversees visitor safety; KWS handles wildlife capture/relocation if risk is confirmed.

• Required steps: Verify sighting → risk assessment → if needed, relocate animal deeper into forest.

Voices and Stakeholders

• KFS: Visitors should “exercise heightened vigilance,” stick to designated paths, and report sightings at gates. 

• Local managers: Advisory stresses caution, not alarm, while investigations continue. 

Evidence & Data

• What’s confirmed: Advisory issued; patrols stepped up around Lily Lake corridor. 

• What’s unverified: Authenticity, location, and timing of the circulating media. 

• Verification: Based on KFS public statements and contemporaneous reports. 

Risks and Implications

• Safety: Low if visitors follow rules; risk rises off-trail.

• Operations: Temporary route monitoring may affect recreational use.

• Perception: Viral clips can overstate danger versus actual risk profile.

What We Don’t Know

• Whether a python is currently ranging near popular trails.

• Exact section of forest captured in the viral clip.

• Whether relocation action will be required.

Timeline

• 2019/2022: Prior python sightings noted by KFS/Friends of Karura. 

• 2025-09-05: KFS issues advisory; media carry safety guidance. 

• 2025-09-05 19:30 EAT: Latest status—investigation ongoing.

What to Watch

• Any KFS/KWS confirmation of a current python and its location.

• Temporary trail advisories near Lily Lake or other nodes. 

• Updated guidance from KFS social channels.