In a heartwarming tale of compassion and collaboration, Taru Carr-Hartley stumbled upon an injured elephant in Tsavo’s Northern Area on July 22. Acting swiftly, Taru, along with Neville Sheldrick, rushed to aid the injured elephant at first light.
After an intense three-hour aerial search on July 23, the injured bull was found within a dense bush. A ground team, equipped with water, veterinary supplies, ropes, pangas, and axes, geared up for the challenging case. Daring to lift the elephant from the ground proved impractical due to the dense vegetation, necessitating the deployment of the DSWT helicopter.
KWS Veterinary Officer Dr. Jeremiah Poghorn successfully darted the bull from the hovering helicopter. After being darted, the team patiently waited for the tranquilized elephant to descend. The ground team vehicles were guided through dense vegetation by a DSWT pilot monitoring from above.
Dr. Poghorn, the first responder, was airlifted to an open clearing approximately 500 meters away from the elephant, guided by the DSWT helicopter pilot. With speed and precision, the team addressed two poisoned arrow wounds located on opposite sides of the elephant’s body.
The necrotic flesh was surgically removed, and the wounds underwent thorough cleaning and treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Natural green clay was packed into the scars to support the healing process.
Due to his size, the massive bull had to be carefully rolled over onto the other side, achieved using ropes strapped around his legs and a grader to handle his considerable weight. Once the procedure was completed, the anesthesia was reversed, and with a few powerful movements, the elephant successfully rose back to his feet.
Despite the disorientation and probable enduring discomfort, the injured elephant received a favorable prognosis, bringing relief to the committed rescue team. This triumph highlights the effective collaboration between DSWT and KWS in their continual efforts to rescue and protect injured wildlife.
With unwavering support from DSWT donors, these organizations will persist in their mission to assist injured elephants and other wildlife species. Over the years, the Veterinary Units and Sky Vet, funded by the DSWT in collaboration with KWS, have provided care to 2,362 elephants, underscoring the significant impact of their cooperation in wildlife conservation.
The collective efforts of the teams involved in these rescues exemplify their unwavering dedication to saving lives and preventing tragic fatalities among Kenya’s wildlife. This heroic effort showcases the power of collaboration, compassion, and commitment in safeguarding the majestic creatures that share our planet.
