Case study of lightning-caused death of critically endangered Tragelaphus sp.

This paper presents the multi-disciplinary forensic approach to the lightning-caused death of two critically endangered eastern bongos (Tragelaphus eurycerus isaaci) at the National Zoological Gardens, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa. The forensic investigation shows that the cause of death was in both cases lightning related. The forensic engineering analysis includes a detailed description of the site geometry and characterisation of the electrical environment including soil and tree impedances. Lightning Detection Network data is correlated to the event and used, in conjunction with the impedance data, to estimate the lethal step potentials that killed the animals. For reference a lightning risk assessment is also included and an argument is made for the inclusion of all critically endangered species in captivity as items of cultural heritage.