In a heartrending tale of survival, a three-month-old pygmy elephant named Joe captured the world’s attention when he was found nuzzling his lifeless mother, who had fallen victim to a mysterious poisoning in Malaysia’s tropical rainforest. The distressing scene moved wildlife officials to tears, and it was clear that Joe needed urgent help.
Fortunately, Joe was rescued and brought to a nature reserve under the care of Augustin David, a devoted 29-year-old keeper.
With unwavering dedication, Augustin became Joe’s surrogate mother, providing round-the-clock care and feeding the infant elephant with a unique formula milk he loved. They developed an extraordinary bond resembling any loving parent and child.
Augustin’s days are filled with nurturing Joe, who enjoys playful moments around the Lok Kawi Zoo near Kota Kinabalu and dislikes bathtime. His love for attention is evident, often nudging or kicking Augustin to ensure he remains the center of care.
Despite the heartwarming progress, Joe’s journey to recovery is far from certain. Dr. Diana Ramirez, the vet overseeing Joe’s health, cautions that baby elephants are vulnerable to sudden health issues like colic, which can prove fatal.
The resilience displayed by Joe gives hope, but he needs to pass the critical six or seven-month mark to increase the chances of survival significantly.
The tragedy of Joe’s mother highlights a larger concern for the Borneo pygmy elephants. With approximately two-thirds of this endangered species found in Malaysia, the mysterious deaths of 14 adult elephants triggered investigations.
Experts suspect poisoning from toxic substances, potentially laid out to protect palm oil plantations near their habitat. The loss of these majestic creatures underscores the urgent need for safeguarding their natural environment.
As for Joe’s future, if he pulls through, he is likely to spend the rest of his life in the safety of the 280-acre park. While rescued elephants often face challenges adapting to the wild, Joe will find companionship among 16 other injured and orphaned elephants residing at the reserve.
This heartwarming tale of resilience and compassion is a poignant reminder of the need to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures for generations to come.
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FAQ about elephants
How much does an elephant weigh?
Elephants, the largest land animals, vary in weight by species and age. African elephants can weigh between 5,000 to 14,000 pounds (2,268 to 6,350 kilograms), with males generally heavier than females. Asian elephants are smaller, with males weighing 4,500 to 11,000 pounds (2,041 to 4,990 kilograms) and females between 3,000 to 6,000 pounds (1,361 to 2,722 kilograms).
How long are elephants pregnant?
Elephants have one of the longest gestation periods among mammals, lasting between 18 to 22 months. African elephants typically have a gestation period of about 22 months, while Asian elephants are pregnant for about 18 to 22 months. This lengthy pregnancy allows the calf to develop fully, ensuring it is relatively mature and can walk soon after birth.
How long do elephants live?
Elephants are known for their long lifespans. In the wild, African elephants typically live between 60 to 70 years, while Asian elephants have a lifespan of about 48 to 60 years. In captivity, elephants may live longer due to regular veterinary care and the absence of predators, although their longevity can vary based on living conditions.
What do elephants eat?
Elephants are herbivores and primarily eat plant-based foods. Their diet includes grasses, leaves, bark, fruits, and roots. African elephants tend to consume more grass, while Asian elephants eat more woody plants. An adult elephant can eat up to 300 pounds (136 kilograms) of food each day.
Where do elephants live?
Elephants live in various habitats across Africa and Asia. In sub-Saharan Africa, African elephants inhabit savannas, forests, deserts, and marshes, including countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and South Africa. Asian elephants are found in forests, grasslands, and scrublands across 13 South and Southeast Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Indonesia. Their habitats range from dense tropical forests to open grasslands, depending on the availability of food and water.
Are elephants afraid of mice?
The idea that elephants are afraid of mice is a popular myth with no scientific backing. Elephants have poor eyesight, making it unlikely they would even notice a small mouse. Any reactions to sudden movements are more likely due to surprise rather than fear of the mouse. Elephants are primarily concerned with larger threats, such as predators or humans.
Are elephants endangered?
Elephants are considered endangered. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists African elephants as vulnerable, while forest elephants, a subspecies, are critically endangered. Asian elephants are classified as endangered. Major threats include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching for ivory.
Do female elephants have tusks?
In African elephants, both males and females typically have tusks. In contrast, in Asian elephants, only some males have tusks, while females usually do not. Female Asian elephants may have small tusk-like structures called tushes, often not visible outside the mouth.