In the heart of Tsavo National Park on November 28, a Tsavo Trust pilot stumbled upon a poignant scene amidst the hopeful anticipation of much-needed rain.
A tiny elephant calf stood beside her collapsed mother, a victim of the relentless drought that had gripped the region.
It had come too late for the mother despite the recent rain, evident in the barren surroundings.
Swift action ensued as the distressing sight was reported to the DSWT/KWS-funded Mobile Veterinary Unit, led by Dr. Poghon.
The Keepers from the Voi stockades, responding promptly to the Tsavo Trust Pilot’s location, found a dire situation.
The calf’s mother, weakened by the harsh dry season, succumbed to starvation, leaving her 10-month-old offspring vulnerable.
Efforts to save the mother proved futile, and attention shifted to rescue the orphaned calf.
Successfully captured, the calf, now named “Kuishi” (Swahili for “to live”), embarked on a journey.
Safely transported to the Voi stockades, she awaited a rescue aircraft from Nairobi to take her to the DSWT Nairobi Nursery.
Kuishi, arriving malnourished but resilient, quickly found comfort among other elephant orphans.
Despite a challenging start marked by drought and scorching heat limiting nourishment, she embraced her new life within days.
Kuishi’s indomitable spirit endured, revealing a will to live that captivated all who witnessed her journey.
Saved just in time, Kuishi, though initially timid, displayed a playful nature and formed a bond with the spirited Esampu.
As she ventures into the wilderness alongside fellow orphans, Kuishi’s triumph over adversity becomes a testament to the resilience and hope in the vast expanse of Tsavo.
