In a concerning incident near Mukwaju, beyond Satao, KWS security staff responded to a distress call involving an elephant cow in critical condition.

The female elephant was incapacitated, lying down and unable to stand, with her tiny calf standing nearby, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Complicating matters, other family members were also in the vicinity.

Given the gravity of the circumstances, a decision was made to rescue the calf, recognizing that the weakened mother could not provide sufficient milk.

With swift action, the calf was safely captured and transported in a vehicle to ensure immediate safety.

For the distressed mother, a meticulous rescue operation ensued. Ropes were strategically attached to her tusks and fastened onto a vet land cruiser.

Through a coordinated effort, she was gently pulled into a sitting position, stood up, reunited with her calf, and walked away calmly to rejoin the larger herd.

Prioritizing the calf’s welfare, it was airlifted to the DSWT Nairobi orphanage for specialized care, considering the mother’s compromised state.

Preliminary assessments indicate that the elephant cow’s weakness is linked to the impact of drought.

Extended periods of drought can lead to insufficient food and water sources, resulting in weakened physical conditions among wildlife.

This successful rescue operation underscores the collaborative efforts of wildlife conservation teams.

The prompt response and careful execution ensured the safety and well-being of the distressed elephant calf, shedding light on the ongoing challenges wildlife faces in the wake of environmental changes.

Ongoing monitoring of the rescued calf’s health and progress at DSWT Nairobi orphanage is in place, emphasizing the need for environmental and wildlife conservation initiatives to address the impacts of drought on local wildlife.

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