The relentless expansion of human populations is encroaching on wildlife habitats, disrupting the age-old migratory routes elephants have followed for centuries.
The pressing need for swift measures to alleviate human-elephant conflicts has become paramount, ensuring the safety of both species.
A recent incident in Kibwezi exemplifies this urgency. On February 24th, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) received a distress call about a male elephant inadvertently venturing into community-owned land.
With houses and people surrounding him, a prompt response was imperative to prevent potential clashes and ensure the safety of both the local community and the elephant.
In response to the escalating conflicts between humans and wildlife, the Trust has been actively deploying resources to implement diverse strategies.
These include the construction of protective fences, community education initiatives, helicopter interventions, and the acquisition of specialized vehicles like a crane-equipped truck for safe elephant relocations.
Given the specific location of the elephant, traditional methods involving helicopters were not feasible. Enter the newly acquired specialized vehicle, designed for precisely such scenarios.
Collaborating with the SWT/KWS Tsavo Veterinary Unit, as well as the SWT helicopter and ground teams, the operation unfolded seamlessly.
Dr. Poghon, a veterinary expert from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), utilized the helicopter for a strategic advantage, safely immobilizing the elephant from the air.
Once on the ground, the team secured the elephant’s legs with padded straps, preparing the truck for the critical task at hand.
Carefully fastened to the truck’s crane, the vigilant vet closely monitored as the powerful bull was skillfully lifted and placed onto the truck’s flatbed.
The destination for this relocated elephant was the Kibwezi Forest, safeguarded by the SWT in collaboration with the Kenya Forest Service. Adjacent to the Chyulu Hills National Park, it links Tsavo West and Amboseli ecosystems.
Notably, the SWT has erected a 93 km electric fence along the Tsavo West/Chyulu/Kibwezi boundary, enhancing protection.
An additional 45 km fence was added last year, delineating the wildlife-protected areas from the surrounding communities.
In this case, it acts as a natural barrier, safeguarding both the translocated elephant and nearby settlements.
Ensuring the well-being of this majestic bull, the successful relocation allows him to explore a vast, protected environment, alleviating tensions between communities and wildlife.
Witness the graceful moment as he rises, seamlessly blending into his rightful natural habitat, marking a positive outcome for both human and animal life.
