Incredible teamwork saves bull elephant from death!

The іпjᴜгed elephant came to light when Tarυ Carr-Hartley, Daphпe’s grandfather, discovered it on July 22 in the northern Tsavo area.

Taking into account the protected terrain and situation situation, DSWT pilots Taru and Neville Sheldrick rushed at first light the next day to locate and assist the elephant.

After a three-hour long aerial search on July 23, the bull was found inside a deep bush. A group team equipped with water, veterinary supplies, ropes, potatoes and axes prepared for the case.

Dropping the elephant from the ground was considered impractical due to the dense vegetation, necessitating the deployment of the DSWT helicopter.

KWS Veterinary Officer Dr Jeremiah Pogho successfully launched the bull from the hovering helicopter.

After being thrown, the team waited patiently for the trapped elephant to come down. The group team vehicles were guided through the dense vegetation by a DSWT pilot motor from above.

Dr Pogho, the first rescuer, was airlifted to an open clearing approximately 500 meters from the elephant, guided by the DSWT helicopter pilot.

With speed and swiftness, the team tackled two suspended arrows located on opposite sides of the elephant’s body.

The ecrotic stool was surgically removed and the pain was relieved by thorough cleaning and treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Natural Greek clay was placed on the scars to support the healing process.

Due to its size, the huge bull had to be carefully carried to the other side, which was achieved using ropes tied to its legs and a bulldozer to support its considerable weight.

Once the procedure was completed, the anesthesia was reversed and with a few powerful movements, the elephant successfully stood up.

Despite the disorientation and likely sudden discomfort, the affected elephant received a favorable prognosis, bringing relief to the compromised team.

This win highlights the effective collaboration between DSWT and KWS in their joint efforts to care for and protect wildlife.

With growing support from DSWT donors, these organizations will continue their mission to help elephants and other wildlife species.

Over the years, Veterinary Services and Sky Vet, funded by the DSWT in collaboration with KWS, have provided care to 2,362 elephants, highlighting the important impact of their cooperation on wildlife conservation.

The collective efforts of the teams involved in these rescues exemplify their unwavering dedication to saving lives and preventing tragic deaths among Keпya’s wildlife.