DSWT Elephant Rescue: Heroic Efforts Save Elephant in Tsavo East from Deadly Snare Threat

In a commendable display of teamwork, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) successfully rescued an elephant cow ensnared by a deadly trap in Tsavo East.

The vigilant de-snaring team identified the critical situation during their routine patrol, triggering a swift response from the Kaluku HQ.

Dswt Elephant Rescue: Heroic Efforts Save Elephant In Tsavo East From Deadly Snare Threat 1

Responding to the distress call, the DSWT de-snaring team and a group of veterinary professionals were promptly airlifted by a DSWT chopper from the Komboyo airstrip to the Sala gate area of Tsavo East.

Upon arrival, they found the de-snaring team monitoring the herd, with the trapped elephant requiring urgent attention.

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A dart loaded with 16 of Etorphine was swiftly administered from the chopper to ensure a safe and efficient intervention, successfully immobilizing the elephant cow within six minutes.

The team then meticulously removed a tightly wound wire snare from around her neck, taking care to clean the wound thoroughly.

The wound-cleaning process involved the elimination of pus, dirt, debris, and necrotic tissues. A mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water was applied, followed by a generous dose of tincture of iodine.

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Oxytetracycline was sprayed on the wound to prevent infection and aid in healing, while wetted green clay protected against dirt and flies.

Long-acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl were administered to support the elephant’s recovery.

Post-treatment, the effects of anesthesia were expertly reversed using Diprenorphine at three times the initial Etorphine dose.

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The overall prognosis for the elephant cow is favorable, thanks to the prompt and skilled intervention by the DSWT team.

This successful rescue not only alleviates the immediate suffering of the elephant but also highlights the crucial role of continued vigilance and rapid response in safeguarding wildlife from human-induced threats.