JW Eksteen. (Photo: Crown Game Breeders/ Facebook)
Tributes are pouring in on social media after the death of JW Eksteen, a well-known wildlife veterinarian from Kroonstad.
Eksteen died on Friday evening at the age of 51 in the Mediclinic hospital in Bloemfontein after he was attacked by a buffalo earlier this month.
Spaski Geldenhuis, DA councilor in the Moqhaka municipality, confirmed this news.
Maroela Media reported earlier that Eksteen was apparently trying to close the gate of a camp in which buffalo were kept when it got stuck. He jumped up and tried to grab the gate, but his hands slipped and he landed in the camp.
A buffalo bull apparently pounced on Eksteen moments later and gored him repeatedly. He was later found in a pool of blood after which he was hurriedly taken to a doctor in Clocolan in the back of a bakkie.
According to social media posts, Eksteen suffered open wounds from under his left arm to above his right hip, with numerous open wounds on his legs and he was later taken by helicopter to the Mediclinic hospital in Bloemfontein.
Animal Defenders International expressed its sadness and condolences to Eksteen’s family.
“JW was always kind, patient, empathetic and was a long time part of the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary team where he treated smaller wildlife. He was an important member of our team and always made himself available to help take care of our animals. Our sincere condolences to his family, as well as the team at Kroonstad Veterinary Hospital,” the post reads.
Biofarm describes Eksteen as an extraordinary veterinarian whose dedication and care made a lasting impact.
“He was deeply respected in the vet community and truly loved by those who had the privilege of working with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his team and all whose lives he touched during this incredibly difficult time. May his legacy of compassion and dedication continue to inspire,” their Facebook post read.
Another entry reads: “It is truly with great shock and sadness that we learn of JW’s passing. JW was a beloved vet, not only in the wildlife industry, but he was also so loved in the horse community where he worked many trips as a line and treatment vet. He also often worked as an FEI vet in Namibia. JW will be missed for sure. Our deepest condolences to his family.”