On March 17, Governor Samuel Tunai of Narok County alerted wildlife expert Robert Carr-Hartley about an orphaned baby elephant named Kiombo in the Masai Mara Reserve.
Concerned for the calf’s well-being, a dedicated team of rangers quickly assembled to monitor and care for the vulnerable elephant.
Just days prior, a lactating female elephant was found lifeless near where Kiombo was discovered.
The calf was suspected to belong to her, but none of the nearby elephants showed interest in adopting him.
A glimmer of hope arose when a mother elephant, accompanied by her three offspring, briefly interacted with Kiombo. However, the calf chose not to follow them, remaining stranded.
The Mara Mobile Veterinary Unit, funded by the SWT Trust and led by Dr. Limo, swiftly responded to the scene, confirming Kiombo’s orphan status due to his poor physical condition.
Collaborating with KWS and Conservancy Rangers, they carefully loaded Kiombo onto a land cruiser for transportation to the Olkiombo airstrip, where a rescue plane awaited.
Through meticulous coordination between the veterinary team and the SWT Keeper team, Kiombo was smoothly transferred from the vehicle to the aircraft, ensuring a comfortable journey to Nairobi.
At the Trust’s Nursery Unit in Nairobi National Park, Kiombo adapted remarkably, displaying gratitude and friendliness towards his keepers.
Surprisingly tame, Kiombo quickly adjusted to his new life, drinking milk from a bottle and forming bonds with his keepers.
After just two days, he seamlessly joined other elephants in the park, confidently navigating familiar paths and finding solace in his sanctuary.
Each evening, with lightning-fast agility, Kiombo returned to his shelter, relishing warm milk and enjoying freshly cut greens.
Nestling into a bed of soft hay, he peacefully slept, assured of safety in the company of his cherished companions.
