In the dark of May 3, 2021, distressing news reached us about a female elephant in dire straits in Chyulu Hills. Her right hind leg had been gravely injured, leaving her unable to move.
She was not alone; this helpless elephant was a mother to two calves, one still dependent on her milk and the other around seven years old.
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Her struggles, shuffling along in a seated position, tugged at our hearts. A rescue mission was urgently needed.
Upon arrival, the SWT/KWS Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit faced a heart-wrenching scene. A mother elephant and her babies are stranded in an area without water, unable to move downhill. Two adult bulls were guarding the family.
Exhaustive efforts were made to explore every option, but it became clear that euthanasia was the only humane choice. And so, a rescue mission was launched.
Experienced Nursery Keepers were dispatched to the Ol Donyo airstrip onboard a Cessna Caravan. The SWT/KWS Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit stood on-site, watching.
To ensure safety, a helicopter lured the bulls away into the forest, allowing the ground team to proceed smoothly. Fortunately, the rescue mission was successful without complications.
The next phase presented unexpected challenges, as the calf was too heavy for an entire team. Only one Keeper accompanied it on the helicopter.
Once at the airstrip, the calf had to be delicately transferred onto a stretcher with limited personnel.
Time was critical as the pilot needed to return for the veterinary procedure. Dr. Kariuki successfully darted the mother elephant from the air.
The mother had to be euthanized due to her severe pain, marking a heart-wrenching moment.
Though the majestic mother couldn’t be saved, a promising future was secured for her young offspring.
The older calf was entrusted to the bulls with hopes of successfully integrating into their herd. Separating the siblings was tough but necessary for their well-being.
The place where this occurred, Esoitpuss, derived from the Maa language, signifying “rock” and “blue,” was named to honor the saved calf – Esoit.
Esoit, true to his name, displayed remarkable strength and resilience upon arrival at the Nursery.
He kept pace with the other orphans despite a stiff hind knee, hinting at an early injury.
His charming appearance and delightful personality earned him fans among humans and elephants.
Roho, a fellow young elephant, shared a special bond with Esoit. They played together, communicated through trunk interactions, and Naboishu treated Esoit kindly.
Though his mother can never be replaced, Esoit found love and support in his new family. As part of the Nursery herd, he will be prepared for a return to the wild when the time is right.
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