In a truly inspiring showcase of courage and compassion, the DSWT SKYVET initiative recently executed a daring rescue operation to free a distressed elephant trapped near Chala along the shores of the Indian Ocean, highlighting their unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation.

The urgent plea for assistance concerning the ensnared elephant reached the DSWT Operation Room on the evening of April 4, 2018, triggering prompt action to aid the struggling animal.

The ambitious rescue mission involved mobilizing the DSWT SKYVET initiative’s aircraft from Kaluku to pick up the Amboseli vet at the Amboseli National Park Headquarters on April 5, 2018.

Upon arrival at Narasaa Airstrip, the team joined forces with three additional groups, including two from KWS Mijira station and one from the Conservancy, embarking on a challenging three-kilometer trek on foot due to the impassable terrain for vehicles.

The lone elephant, grappling with severe lameness, struggled to keep pace with its herd, primarily due to a pus-covered wound on its front right limb caused by a winch wire snare knot.

Having endured this traumatic injury for over a month and a half, the urgency for intervention escalated, especially as the elephant navigated challenging wet, silted grounds.

The veterinary team administered tranquilizers to the elephant, ensuring a safe and secure environment for treating the wound.

With precision and care, they removed the embedded wire and applied necessary medications and treatments to promote healing.

Following the comprehensive treatment regimen, including injections and wound care, the elephant was successfully revived from immobilization, marking a triumph for the collaborative efforts of the DSWT SKYVET initiative and other conservation teams.

This heroic rescue not only saved the elephant’s life but also exemplified the unwavering dedication of wildlife conservationists to safeguard and protect the well-being of animals in their natural habitats.