The wonders of the natural world often come with their share of heartache. Recently, a poignant story unfolded in Ithumba, shedding light on the bittersweet reality of Mother Nature’s wilderness.
Makena, a promising nanny elephant, celebrated the birth of her healthy calf, Mumo, on September 10th amidst a severe drought.
Despite the challenging conditions, Mumo thrived, relishing a playful mud bath with her mother and fellow nannies.
Initially, Makena and Mumo remained close to Ithumba, receiving support from ex-orphans nearby.
However, they mysteriously vanished into the depths of Tsavo for three days, leaving everyone concerned. Upon their return, it was evident that Mumo had endured a challenging ordeal, bearing the marks of sunburn and scratches.
The circumstances of their disappearance remained shrouded in mystery. Still, something had gone awry, as even the wild bulls in the area sensed an unsettling presence and gently examined the baby elephant.
Upon the wild bulls’ return, they took on a protective role, guarding Mumo as she enjoyed her mud bath. Keepers noticed Mumo’s sunburn and ticks and promptly administered treatment.
Fresh lucerne was provided to help the pair recuperate from their extended journey while they relaxed in the mud.
A tense moment ensued when Mumo accidentally fell into a water trough, but Makena’s quick and skillful use of her trunk rescued her offspring before the Keepers could intervene.
This display of maternal instinct left a lasting impression, as even seasoned elephant mothers have struggled with such situations.
Despite the presence of curious bulls, Mumo appeared at ease. Exhausted, she dozed off while standing, prompting concerns for her well-being. The Ithumba team administered rehydration salts as Makena kept a watchful eye.
Yatta and her ex-orphan herd arrived, and Keepers ensured Makena received sustenance while safeguarding her milk supply for Mumo.
Subsequent efforts to guide the trio back to the stockades proved challenging, with Makena resisting and breaking free repeatedly. Eventually, they returned, and Mumo exhibited improvement the following day.
Despite endeavors to keep them in a spacious enclosure, Makena’s yearning for elephant companionship led her to venture off with her baby. Keepers persisted in encouraging rest and provided food and water.
While in the fence, Makena escaped twice while Mumo rested and fed on Lucerne.
The following day, Makena returned with Mumo, but she eventually wandered off, leading to a tragic moment when Mumo collapsed.
Desperate attempts by Makena and another elephant named Ishanga to revive her daughter proved futile. Benjamin, one of the Keepers, rushed to assist, but sadly, Mumo had passed away.
This heartbreaking turn of events shocked everyone as Makena stood vigil over her baby’s lifeless body, surrounded and comforted by concerned bulls.
Astonishingly, Mumo returned to the stockades the following day, adding to the complexity of this poignant tale.
Makena and Mumo, two distinct personalities, share a deep bond and engage in various activities together, from hiking to sampling new foods. Despite their differences, their unbreakable connection keeps them close.
The grieving group was quickly enveloped by caring bulls. Our hearts ache for Makena and the tragedy that unfolded during this harsh, arid season.
In recent months, we’ve witnessed the elephants’ hardships firsthand, with limited access to water and food, which is even more challenging for a nursing mother and her calf.
It remains a mystery why Makena ventured into the arid Tsavo wilderness when resources were plentiful at Ithumba, including abundant food and water.
Unfortunately, the whole truth of this journey may never be known. Nevertheless, Makena will carry the lessons from this painful experience, preparing her for the day she has another chance at motherhood.
Currently, she mourns the loss of Mumo, and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) shares in this heavy sense of grief.
