Plastic Pollution Tragedy: Wildebeest Dies After Ingesting 5 Plastic Bags at Zimbabwe Sanctuary

On November 14, 2025, the Lion Park Harare in Zimbabwe shared a heartbreaking update on their Facebook page. One of their wildebeests had recently died, and the autopsy revealed a shocking discovery - the animal had ingested 5 plastic bags.

The park expressed their dismay at this tragic incident, stating that it is "truly disgusting and embarrassing" for people to be so irresponsible with their waste. The Lion Park Harare emphasized the importance of visitors using the provided dustbins and not littering in the game park, as plastic pollution is an ever-growing problem that is harming wildlife.

Plastic ingestion is becoming an increasingly common issue for animals, with a recent case of a sick bear in Telluride, Colorado, also being euthanized due to a blocked digestive tract caused by plastic. This incident at the Lion Park Harare serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater environmental awareness and responsible behavior from tourists visiting nature-related attractions.

Observing and experiencing wildlife is a privilege, and it is crucial that visitors respect the sanctity of these spaces and do their part to protect the animals and their habitats. The Lion Park Harare's message underscores the importance of mindful behavior and the need for collective action to address the growing plastic pollution crisis.