SWT/KWS Mobile Vet Unit Quarterly Report January - March 2019

SWT/KWS MOBILE VETERINARY UNITS TSAVO – MARA – AMBOSELI – MT KENYA January – March 2019 Report

Introduction

101 Cases

38 Poaching Cases

48 Elephant Cases

12 Giraffe Cases

16 HWC Cases

56% Success

January – March 2019 Report for Tsavo, Mara, Amboseli and Mt Kenya Units During the January – December 2019, 3-month reporting period, SWT in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service and their four dedicated field veterinary officers, attended to 101 wildlife cases.

Of the 101 cases attended to, 48 cases included elephants; 29 of these elephant cases were directly related to poaching activities with cases including 15 poisoned arrows, 7 spear cases, 1 bullet wound case, 3 snaring cases and 3 post-mortems where cause of death was suspected to be poaching, though the direct cause could not be determined. There were also 3 human-wildlife conflict cases involving an arrow wound, a bullet wound, and an elephant stuck down an uncovered septic hole. Other elephant cases included 8 treatments for natural causes, 3 post-mortems where cause of death was assumed to be natural, 4 rescues and 1 case where a restraining rope had to be removed from a calf that had been previously rescued.

Non-elephant cases attended to involved 9 poaching incidents; 1 arrow case and 8 snaring cases, as well as 13 human-wildlife conflict cases involving 46 animals. The majority of these cases were related to poisoning or relocation of animals out of community areas to mitigate potential conflict. There was also 1 post-mortem assumed to be natural, 4 rescue cases, 3 technical cases, 22 cases treated for natural causes and 1 survey.

Case Details Elephant

Predators

Plains Game

Giraffe

Poaching

29

1

4

4

HWC

3

5

5

1

Natural Causes

8

5

5

6

Post-mortem

3

Rescue

4

3

Technical Cases

1

1

Research/Survey Grand Total

Rhino

Other

38

5

1

2

16

1

30

1

4

1

8

1

4

1 48

11

19

Grand Total

1 12

5

6

101

Outcomes of Cases Attended to by SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019 40

35

30

Other

25

Rhino Buffalo

20

Giraffe Plains Game

15

Predators Elephant

10

5

0 Poaching

Human Wildlife Natural Causes Conflict

Postmortem

Rescue

Research/ Survey

Technical Cases

Poaching and HWC Cases Attended to by SWT/KWS Vet Units 1st January - 31st March 2019 18 16 14 12 10 Other

8

Buffalo 6

Giraffe

4

Plains Game Predators

2

Elephant

Poaching

Human Wildlife Conflict

Translocation

Lion Attack

Suspected Poisoning

RTA

Relocation

Poison

Manhole

Fencing

Bullet Wound

Arrow

Poaching Postmortem

Snared

Spear

Bullet Wound

Arrow

0

Outcomes of Cases Attended to by SWT/KWS Vet Units 1st January - 31st March 2019

Prognosis Poor 8% Poaching Death 9% HWC Death 8%

Successful Cases 56%

Died 13%

Taken to Orphanage 6%

Mt Kenya

Outcomes of Cases Attended to by SWT/KWS Vet Units 1st January - 31st March 2019

Amboseli

17

4

Mara

1

14

Tsavo

12

14

0

5 Successful Cases

1

1

3

2

1

3

10 Taken to Orphanage

2

15 Prognosis Poor

5

7

2

1

3

5

20 Poaching Death

3

25 HWC Death

30 Died

KWS/SWT Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations Tsavo – Mara -Amboseli – Mt Kenya January - March 2019

SWT/KWS TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OVERVIEW January – March 2019

28 Cases

16 Poaching Cases

19 Elephant Cases

The Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit attended to 28 cases, involving 19 elephants, 4 predators and 5 plains game. Of the 28 cases, 16 were directly related to poaching and 7 to human-wildlife conflict, as well as 3 for natural causes and 2 rescues.

Cases Attended to by Tsavo SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019 10 9 8 7

Buffalo

6

Plains Game

5

Predators

4

Elephant

3 2 1 0 Arrow

Human Wildlife Conflict

Spear

Snared

Poaching Postmortem

Natural Causes

Rescue

Outcomes of Cases Attended to by Tsavo SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019

Taken to Orphanage 10% Prognosis Poor 11% Successful Cases 50%

Poaching Death 18%

HWC Death 11%

KWS/SWT Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations January - March 2019

SWT/KWS TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JANUARY 2019

Introduction

6 Cases in January

3 Poaching Cases

3 HWC Cases

Report by Jeremiah Poghorn The month of January 2019 witnessed moderate cases of poaching and human-wildlife conflict associated injuries.

This month, two elephant carcasses were examined for cause of death in Izera Ranch and Salaita areas of Taita Ranches and Tsavo West National Park respectively. Other cases included treatment of an elephant bull in Ngutuni Conservancy, rescue of an Oryx trapped in Mbololo Standard Gauge Railway Station and euthanasia of a zebra hit by a vehicle along Mombasa- Nairobi highway which sustained fractures. The region is still abundant with forage after last year’s good rains. Temporary water points are slowly drying up and elephants once more will concentrate around the permanent water points in the Park.

Acknowledgement The unit acknowledges the support of its sponsors ViER PFOTEN through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) for their immense financial contribution to the unit. We also thank Kenya Wildlife Service through the Assistant director Tsavo Conservation Area and the head, veterinary and capture services department for their support.

Case Details

Case 1 – 17th January 2019 Lion

Human Wildlife Conflict

Maktau, Tsavo West

A report of a person attacked by a Lion near LUMO Conservancy in Tsavo West National Park was received and the KWS community service rangers rushed to assess the situation as the veterinary unit was placed on standby.

Upon reaching the area the lioness became aggressive and had to be put down as it was about to attack community members and the rangers who were searching for it. It was brought to the vet unit for examination. Autopsy examination revealed broken canines due to old age. Canines are important tools used by predators to kill prey and hence any deformity with them renders the lioness was unable to hunt wild prey hence resorting to easy prey in livestock and at times even humans. This problem is mostly seen in lone lions with no pride-mates to assist in hunting of prey.

st

Case 2 – 21 January 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem examination

Poaching

Izera Ranch, Taita Ranches

Case 3 – 22nd January 2019 Elephant

Poaching

Salaita, Tsavo West National Park

A report was made by the company commander based at Tsavo West National Park that two Elephant carcasses have been spotted near Salaita area of Tsavo West National Park after an aerial recce with request for autopsy examination to be undertaken.

Post-mortem examination The carcass was lying on the right flank and in mid-advanced stage of decomposition with extensive scavenger activity. The front face had been chopped off with a sharp object and the tusks missing. The chest and abdominal skin had been torn away by scavengers and all internal organs either rotted away or scavenged on. Bones were checked and only scavenger bite marks observed. The skull was checked for cracks but not found apart from the cut marks on the front facial part. There was a sharp arrow like wound on the ramp area penetrating the skin but most of the internal tissues were eaten away by scavengers. There were no struggle marks around the carcass. The sharp object marks on the face and the fact the body had been covered with branches indicates likelihood of poaching incident, though the use of a metal detector did not find any metallic object on the carcass. The cause of death could not be diagnosed from autopsy due to advanced autolysis and extensive scavenger activity.

Case 4 – 23rd January 2019 Elephant

Arrow Wound

Ngutuni, Tsavo East National Park

A tour driver made a report regarding an elephant with an abdominal wound that was swollen and oozing pus which was spotted while drinking water at the Ngutuni Lodge water hole.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Darting equipment and immobilization drugs were prepared, then the elephant was approached by vehicle, but he ran off and was followed for several minutes before being darted on the rump. He was trailed slowly from a distance as he moved off with other bulls and eventually, he went down after 8 minutes. The trunk and the ear were positioned correctly to aid in breathing and water splashed on the ears to keep him cool. The elephant bull had an arrow wound to the right chest area which was oozing pus. The wound was cleaned with water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide, doused with Tincture of Iodine and sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray. Mid way between the treatments the anaesthesia became light and the bull flapped his ears. As the treatment was nearly through there was no need to administer any additional anaesthetic drug. The wound was finally covered with green clay. The elephant was then administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl. Prognosis The anaesthesia was reversed and the bull stood up and walked away calmly. Prognosis for full recovery is good.

Case 5 – 23rd January 2019 Zebra

Human Wildlife Conflict

Ndii, Tsavo East

A report was received from Kenya Wildlife Service Rangers that a zebra was lame, unable to walk and appeared in great pain. On closer examination the zebra’s hind leg appeared fractured and bleeding. The vet team rushed to the area to find the poor animal writhing in pain near a community maize farm with the KWS and SWT rangers close by.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The vet team quickly darted the zebra who was fully immobilized after 4 minutes. Quick examination revealed a serious complete fracture of the left hind limb with massive bleeding and contamination. After detailed assessment the complex fracture was deemed irreparable considering his habitat and will certainly lead to great suffering of the animal. On this basis the prognosis of healing was deemed poor and the animal was euthanized on animal welfare grounds. The cause of fracture was thought to be an accident caused by speeding vehicles along the Nairobi - Mombasa highway which was nearby.

Case 6 – 24th January 2019 Oryx

Human Wildlife Conflict

Mbololo SGR Station, Tsavo

A report was received from Kenya Wildlife Service rangers manning the Mbololo SGR station that an oryx was stuck in the fence line separating the station and Tsavo East National Park and was unable to get out. The vet team rushed to the area to find the poor animal writhing in pain with the KWS rangers close by.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The oryx was immobilized by darting with 5 mgs of Etorphine Hcl mixed with 50 mgs of Xylazine in a 1.5 cc Dan inject dart. He was fully immobilized after 4 minutes. The oryx was rescued from the electric fence, administered with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs and the wounds on his legs were treated. The oryx was then loaded into a land cruiser and transported into Tsavo East National Park.

Prognosis The anaesthesia was reversed and oryx was let free. Prognosis for a full recovery is good.

Report by Dr. Jeremiah Poghorn

SWT/KWS TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT February 2019

Introduction

14 Cases in February

8 Poaching Cases

12 Elephant Cases

February Report by Dr Jeremiah Poghon The month of February witnessed a sharp increase in cases attended to by the unit; most of which were elephant bulls with arrow wounds. This is thought to be associated with attempted poaching events as they mainly target bulls with heavy tusks. There were also two post-mortems conducted on elephant carcasses, one in Tsavo West and one in Tsavo East, both of which succumbed to arrow wounds. In other cases, an elephant bull with a tight wire snare on the left front limb was treated in Tundani area near Ithumba in Tsavo East, an elephant cow that fell into a septic tank in Maungu, Tsavo East was rescued but died during rescue and a lioness was treated for wound fight injuries in Ngutuni conservancy. The team also rescued two elephant calf’s which were taken to the SWT elephant orphanage.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

01-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Arrow

There was a penetrating wound on the right front limb with swelling and infection.

Prognosis Poor

03-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Arrow

A fresh arrow wound on the left thigh with blood oozing out

Successfully Treated

06-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Arrow

A typical arrow wound on the left abdominal area with pus oozing out.

Successfully Treated

09-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo West National Park

Arrow

A penetrating wound with accompanied haemorrhage was observed on the carcass

Poaching Death

09-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo West National Park

Arrow

The Elephant bull had a wound on the right thigh area

Successfully Treated

10-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Snared

A tight snare on the left front limb that appears few days old. The wire was so thick our wire cutters were of no use.

Successfully Treated

10-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Arrow

Post-mortem revealed a penetrating wound near the groin with dry blood stains.

Poaching Death

12-Feb19

Lion

Tsavo East National Park

Natural Causes

Multiple penetrating and laceration wounds on the back, pelvic area and the hind limbs

Successfully Treated

13-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Natural Causes

It appears that the swelling is from an old injury that healed with overgrowth of tissues

Successfully Treated

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

HumanWildlife Conflict

A deeply penetrating wound on the right elbow joint. The wound was infected, and a lot of pus oozed out

Taken to Orphanage

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

HumanWildlife Conflict

Fell into a poorly constructed septic hole near Maungu settlements

HWC Death

17-Feb19

Hyena

Tsavo West National Park

HumanWildlife Conflict

Fell into a disused underground concrete tank near Man eaters lodge

Task Successful

18-Feb19

Elephant

Tsavo West National Park

Arrow

An arrow head was pulled out of the wound.

Successfully Treated

21-Feb19

Elephant

Taita Ranches, Tsavo

Rescue

The veterinary unit rushed to the area to find the calf collapsed and hardly breathing.

Taken to Orphanage

16-Feb19 17-Feb19

Reason for Intervention

Outcome

Case 1 – 1st February 2019 Elephant

Arrow Wound

Satao, Tsavo East National Park

A report was received from the Satao camp Manager regarding an elephant bull that was limping badly while drinking water at the camps waterhole. The vet team drove to the camp and found the bull together with others nearby. There was an obvious injury on the right front leg with marked swelling.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was approached slowly from a vehicle and darted in the rump. He hobbled away in pain, so the vet team trailed him slowly from a distance, until he went down after 7 minutes. The trunk and the ear were positioned correctly to aid in breathing and water splashed on the ears to cool down from the high temperatures currently being experienced in Tsavo.

There was a penetrating wound to the right front limb causing swelling and infection; the joint was also compromised. The wound was flushed with large amounts of normal saline mixed with antiseptics to wash out the pus and tissue debris, then doused with tincture of Iodine, sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and finally covered with green clay. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl. Prognosis Prognosis is guarded due to joint infection.

Case 2 – 3rd February 2019 Elephant

Arrow Wound

Satao, Tsavo East National Park

A report was received from the SWT pilot who had spotted 3 suspected injured elephant bulls near the Satao area of Tsavo East while on aerial patrol. The vet team rushed to the area and found the bull together with others near the Satao camp watering hole. The injury was fresh and oozing blood.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was approached with a vehicle but ran off and separated from the other bulls. He was followed for several minutes before being darted in the rump. The bull was nervous and kept on running, but finally went down after 8 minutes. He was pushed by hand so that he fell on the correct side.

The elephant bull had a fresh arrow wound to the left thigh. The wound was enlarged and after probing, a sharp arrow head was retrieved from deep inside the muscles. The wound was cleaned with water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide, doused with tincture of Iodine, sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and covered with green clay. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl. Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Case 3 – 6th February 2019 Elephant

Arrow Wound

Satao, Tsavo East National Park

The SWT aerial patrol aircraft reported an injured elephant bull near Satao plains. The bull was in a group of 18 others. The vet team collected their drugs and equipment and drove towards Satao where they arrived an hour later. They easily spotted the injured bull after tracking the GPS points given by the pilot.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Darting equipment and immobilization drugs were prepared prior to approaching the elephant in a vehicle.

He was successfully darted in the rump then trailed slowly from a distance as he moved off with other bulls.

He went down after 7 minutes while the rest of the bulls moved away slowly.

The elephant bull had a typical arrow wound to the left abdominal area with pus oozing out. The wound was flushed clean using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide, doused with tincture of Iodine and sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray. A final cover of green clay was administered to aid in wound healing. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl for inflammation. When the anaesthetic was reversed, the bull stood up and walked away slowly.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Case 4 – 9th February 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem, Arrow Wound

Kilaguni, Tsavo West National Park

A report was made by the company commander F coy based at Tsavo West National Park that a fresh elephant carcass was spotted beside the Komboyo-Kilaguni road within Tsavo West National Park. The vet unit drove to the area to undertake an autopsy General Examination Initial observation revealed a fresh adult elephant male carcass, approximately less than 24 hours old. The carcass was lying on the left flank near the road and the tusks were intact. Upon examination there was no injury to the right body wall. The carcass was flipped over to expose the left body flank and upon external examination a penetrating wound with accompanied haemorrhage was observed. The skin on the left abdominal wall was carefully removed exposing the subcutaneous tissues and the wound. Abdominal muscles were cut where the penetrating wound entered the peritoneal cavity. The arrow head was finally located having punctured the spleen. The arrow head was covered by darkish substance thought to be Ouabain poison.

Post-mortem Diagnosis The cause of death is from a poisoned arrow shot.

Case 5 – 9th February 2019 Elephant

Arrow Wound

Komboyo, Tsavo West National Park

After the vet team were through with an elephant autopsy, the SWT de-snaring teams reported an elephant bull with a suspected arrow injury. The vet team accompanied by the de-snaring teams rushed to the area and found the bull together with others near Komboyo airstrip camp site.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was approached from a vehicle and darted in the rump. He ran off, followed by another bull, for a short distance and went down on the injured side. The bull became aggressive and the vet unit had to call for assistance from the de-snaring vehicle that pushed the other bull away. Having fallen on the injured side, the injured bull was rolled over using ropes tied to the vet Landcruiser.

The elephant bull had a wound to the right thigh caused by an arrow. The wound was enlarged so that pus and large chunks of necrotic tissues could be removed. The wound was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide, doused with tincture of Iodine, sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and then finally covered with green clay. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and an anti – inflammatory.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Case 6 – 10th February 2019 Elephant

Snare

Tudani, Tsavo East National Park

During their daily aerial recce the SWT pilot came across an Elephant bull struggling to walk. On closer examination he noticed a huge wire on the left front leg and thought it was still tied onto a tree. The Vet was immediately notified and airlifted by SWT helicopter to the area which is more than 100 kms from Voi.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Due to thick bush the bull was approached using a helicopter, which pushed the elephant slowly to a nearby road where it was darted. He went down after 7 minutes and the ground team was directed by the SWT helicopter to the immobilized elephant. The vet was dropped on the road and joined the ground team.

There was a tight snare on the left front limb that appeared a few days old. Although it was tight, the damage was not grave. The wire was so thick our wire cutters were of no use but luckily, we were able to unwind the high tensile wire. The wound was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide, sprayed with tincture of Iodine and Oxytetracycline spray. The wound was finally covered with green clay. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl. Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Case 7 – 10th February 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem, Arrow Wound

Yatta Plateau, Tsavo East National Park

A report was made by the company commander E coy regarding an elephant carcass spotted along the Yatta plateau within Tsavo East National Park. As there are no roads in the area the vet team was airlifted to the site using a SWT helicopter.

General Examination Initial observation revealed a recent adult elephant male carcass, approximately a week old. The carcass was at an advanced level of decomposition sitting in sternal recumbency and the tusks had been removed by KWS. The front face was eaten away by scavengers. Fluids were flowing from the carcass caused by advanced putrefaction. On closer external examination a penetrating wound to the right body side near the groin, with dry blood stains around, it was found. The skin around the wound was removed exposing lacerated abdominal wall muscles. The muscles tissues were removed, and a sharp arrow head found.

Post-mortem Diagnosis The cause of death is from a poisoned arrow shot.

Case 8 – 12th February 2019 Lion

Natural Causes

Ngutuni/Tsavo East National Park

Reports was made by several tour drivers regarding a sickly-looking lioness with body injuries that was seen near Voi River between the border of Tsavo East National Park and Ngutuni Sanctuary. The vet unit rushed to the site and found the injured lioness under a bush with obvious body injuries to the back and hind limbs

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The lioness was immobilised using 300mgs of Ketamine and 4 mgs of Meditomidine administered by a 3cc Dan inject dart. The vet successful darted the lioness in the thigh and she went down in 6 minutes. She was quickly moved to the shade and her eyes covered with a towel. The lioness had multiple penetrating and laceration wounds to the back, pelvic area and the hind limbs that were inflicted by other lions. The wounds were flushed with normal saline and crystalline penicillin, doused with tincture of iodine and covered with green clay. High doses of long acting Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone Hcl were also administered. The entire operation took one hour, after which the anaesthetic was reversed. The lioness regained full consciousness after 3 hours. She was supplemented with meat from a buffalo carcass killed and abandoned by other lions nearby.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Case 9 – 13th February 2019 Elephant

Natural Causes

Satao, Tsavo East National Park

The SWT aerial patrol reported another injured elephant bull near Satao plains. The bull was in a group of 9 others. The vet team collected their drugs and equipment and drove to Satao, which is about 50 Kms from Voi, and arrived an hour later. The injured elephant bull was located after tracking the GPS points given by the pilot.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was approached with a vehicle, but he ran off with other bulls. He was tracked and finally darted in the rump. He was trailed from a distance, but he separated from the other bulls and ran off by himself until he went down after 10 minutes. The rest of the bulls moved away slowly.

The elephant bull had a swelling to the left thigh area but with no wound. It appears that the swelling is from an old injury that has healed with overgrowth of tissues. There was no ailment that warranted treatment to be instituted so the anaesthesia was reversed, and the elephant got up and walked away.

Prognosis Prognosis is good as the wound has already healed.

Case 10 – 16th February 2019 Elephant

Human- Wildlife Conflict; Arrow Wound

Emusaya, Tsavo East National Park

A report of an injured elephant calf was received from the Company Commander E coy. The calf was reported to have a swollen leg and could hardly walk.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The teams separated the bigger herd from the injured calf which was successful after several attempts, however, the mother remained with her calf. A decision was made to immobilise both the mother and the calf to avoid separation. The mother was darted first, followed by the calf, and they both went down about 50 metres apart The calf had a deep penetrating wound to the medial aspect of the right elbow joint suspected to be an arrow injury due to human-wildlife conflict. The wound was infected, and a lot of pus oozed out. It was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide, infused with tincture of iodine, sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and finally covered with green clay. Long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone was injected IM and IV respectively.

Prognosis The mother and the calf were both revived simultaneously but the mother got up and took off leaving the calf behind. Attempts were made to reunite them in vain. The team was left with no other option but to rescue the calf as it was too small and injured to survive on its own.

Case 11 – 17th February 2019 Elephant

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Maungu, Tsavo East National Park

This elephant cow fell into a poorly constructed septic hole near Maungu settlements in Tsavo East National Park at night and reported the next morning by Wildlife Works Rukinga Rangers who live nearby. The Vet team rushed to the area and found the adult elephant cow squeezed in the small septic hole.

Rescue Attempt The teams and vehicles were mobilized to help pull her out, but she was too heavy. Heavy machinery was then called in but were either too far or just unavailable at the time.

The teams used hoes to dig the side of the pit to create sloppy walls to make it easier to pull out the trapped elephant. Sadly, the elephant succumbed as the teams desperately tried to save her from her anguish.

Death was caused by respiratory insufficiency due to chest compression. An hour later a big tractor arrived, and the carcass was pulled out, into the park and the tusks removed.

Case 12 – 17th February 2019 Hyena

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Man Eaters Lodge, Tsavo East

This hyena fell into a disused underground concrete tank near Man Eaters lodge and was spotted the next morning by the lodge staff. The team rushed in and found the now tired hyena still in the tank. Attempts were made to pull her out without having to immobilise her, but this proved difficult as she became aggressive.

Rescue The hyena was immobilized using 100 mgs of Ketamine mixed with 1 Mg of Meditomidine in a Dan-inject dart. The vet was able to dart the hyena very easily due to its compromised position and it became fully immobilized after 5 minutes.

She was removed from the tank and treated for self-inflicted wounds with long acting Amoxicillin and an antiinflammatory. After one hour the hyena was administered with 0.5 cc of Atipemazole Hcl reversal drug, placed in a shade and guarded until she fully recovered.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Case 13 – 18th February 2019 Elephant

Arrow Wound

Komboyo, Tsavo West National Park

This case was reported by an SWT aerial patrol after the pilot spotted several elephant bulls with what was thought to be arrow wounds.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was approached on foot and darted in the rump, however, he ran off, followed by the other bulls. The team gave chase in the vehicle but lost the injured bull as the herd split up making follow up difficult. The SWT plane was called in to assist but after several minutes there was no success. The vet was collected by the pilot and directed the plane. The bull was finally located already immobilised, and the ground teams were directed towards the fallen elephant whilst the vet was dropped at the airstrip and rushed to the area in an awaiting vehicle. The bull had a wound on the left thigh near the groin.

The wound was enlarged so pus and necrotic tissues could be removed. An arrow head was pulled out of the wound. The wound was cleaned using water, Hydrogen peroxide, Iodine then sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and covered with green clay. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone.

Prognosis This injury was caused by an arrow; however, prognosis is good following treatment.

Case 14 – 21st February 2019 Elephant

Rescue

Miasenyi, Tsavo East National Park

A report was made by the KWS officer in charge of the Taita Ranches Company of an elephant calf that had collapsed near KMC Miasenyi offices. There were no elephant herds nearby. The veterinary unit rushed to the area to find the calf collapsed and hardly breathing.

Rescue The calf was moved to a shaded area then the vet team splashed water on the body and ears to try and cool the baby elephant down. The calf was extremely dehydrated and weak, so 50 cc of 50 % dextrose was administered by slow IV through the ear vein plus 10 cc of Dexamethasone to combat shock and provide much needed energy. Parenteral antibiotics cover was also given. After being stabilised an IV infusion of normal saline was started at the SWT field office. The SWT headquarters at Kaluku was alerted and 30 minutes later the SWT helicopter arrived and airlifted the calf to the elephant nursery for better care.

Prognosis Unfortunately, the orphan died the next morning from dehydration and exhaustion

Other activities •

The unit vet testified in 2 cases at Voi law courts where offenders were charged with being in possession of wildlife trophies.

•

Numerous wildlife trophies from Voi (Tsavo East) and Tsavo West National Park were examined; among them Elephant tusks, Pangolin scales and python skin, and expert reports produced to aid in prosecution of offenders.

Acknowledgement •

The unit acknowledges the support of its sponsors ViER PFOTEN through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) for their huge financial support to the unit. We also thank Kenya Wildlife Service through the Assistant director Tsavo conservation area and the head, veterinary and capture services department for their support.

Report by Dr Jeremiah Poghon

SWT/KWS TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT MARCH 2019

Introduction

8 Cases in March

5 Poaching Cases

4 Elephant Cases

March Report by Dr Jeremiah Poghon The month under review saw a shift in types of injuries in elephants; with spear wounds topping the list and arrow wounds decreasing. Two elephants were treated for spear wounds an autopsy was undertaken on an elephant cow carcass that died of spear wound all in Tsavo East. In Tsavo West an elephant bull was treated for arrow wound near Komboyo. The unit also attended to various other cases involving buffalo, lion and an eland.

Acknowledgement The unit acknowledges the support of its sponsors ViER PFOTEN through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) for their huge financial support to the unit. We also thank Kenya Wildlife Service through the Assistant director Tsavo conservation area and the head, veterinary and capture services department for their support.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

08-Mar-19

Lion

Tsavo East National Park

Natural Causes

The lion’s upper lip had been ripped out exposing his canines and there were other old injuries on the hind limbs and back

Task Successful

12-Mar-19

Buffalo

Lualenyi Ranch, Taita

Rescue

A calf had been abandoned in the ranch and was kept in a Boma by local herdsmen

Taken to Orphanage

13-Mar-19

Antelope

Tsavo West National Park

Snared

The young eland was seen with a vehicle tyre around its chest

Successfully Treated

Buffalo

Base Titanium, South Coast

Human Wildlife Conflict

remnant buffalo population invading community areas due to deforestation

Task Successful

24-Mar-19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Spear

There was a penetrating wound on the medial aspect of the right front limb with swelling and infection of the elbow joint

Prognosis Poor

25-Mar-19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Spear

Examination of the carcass revealed two injuries on the back near the left of lumbar vertebral column

Poaching Death

28-Mar-19

Elephant

Tsavo West National Park

Arrow

This was a typical arrow wound, though no foreign body was found

Successfully Treated

28-Mar-19

Elephant

Tsavo East National Park

Spear

Probing revealed a deep penetrating wound possibly from a spear

Prognosis Poor

22-Mar-19

Reason for Intervention

Outcome

Case 1 – 8th March 2019 Lion

Natural Causes

Satao, Tsavo East National Park

The report was made by staff of Satao camp that a sickly-looking lion with visible body injuries was spotted that morning near the camps’ watering hole. The vet unit rushed to the camp and found the lion under a bush with obvious surface injuries to the face and hind limbs.

General Examination The vehicle moved close to the lion and using binoculars we were able to visually examine the injuries better.

The lion’s upper lip had been ripped out exposing his canines and there were other old injuries on the hind limbs and back. All the wounds were old and already healed leaving scars on the skin. The upper lip was torn out and the wound healed.

There was no need to intervene and the lion was left alone. The cause of injuries is suspected to be from territorial fights with other lions

Case 2 – 12th March 2019 Buffalo

Rescue

Lualenyi Ranch, Taita

The camp manager from Lualenyi Camp reported that a buffalo calf had been abandoned in the ranch and was being kept in a Boma by local herdsmen. The SWT Maktau based de-snaring team were informed and they immediately rushed to the area.

Rescue The Rangers met with the herdsmen who handed over the buffalo calf. They then brought it to the Voi Veterinary unit for examination. The calf was given a clean bill of health and taken to the Voi SWT stockades for care and final release in the wild.

Case 3 – 13th March 2019 Eland

Poaching

Maktau, Tsavo West National Park

This young eland was seen by a camp owner near Lualenyi Community Conservancy bordering Tsavo West National Park, with a vehicle tyre around its chest. Being late in the evening the team planned to attend to the animal the next morning. The team travelled to Lualenyi Ranch and met with the camp owner who directed us where the eland was last seen. It was easily located under a tree.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The shy eland was approached and an attempt was made to dart him but he took off immediately and the dart missed. A second dart was quickly prepared with the same dosage which got the target on the rump and the eland went down after 5 minutes. The vehicle tyre was around the chest and was suspected to have been used as a game-meat trap. The tyre was inflicting injuries and causing a lot of distress to the young growing animal. There were wounds on the chest and abdominal area caused by the tightening of the tyre.

It was cut loose using a hack saw and the wounds were washed clean with tincture of Iodine and sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray. Parenteral administration of long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl was done.

Prognosis The eland stood up and ran off. Prognosis is good.

Case 4 – 22nd March 2019 Buffalo

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Kwale County

Base Titanium mines in Kwale began operations about 18 years ago and since then large forested areas that once hosted buffalo populations have been cut down. This has forced a remnant buffalo population to invade community areas leading to an increase in human-wildlife conflict (HWC) and complaints from the community around the mine area. In an effort to reduce HWC, the Base Titanium management requested KWS to consider translocating the animals. An ecological assessment and stakeholder’s consultation were conducted prior to the translocation exercise. Shimba Hills National Reserve was selected as the relocation site due to its closeness to the Base Titanium mines and with similar ecological features.

Immobilization, Capture and translocation The herd of 14 buffaloes constituted a breeding herd. The aim was to capture all the individuals and move them to Shimba Hills National Park. Among the individuals of concern with postulated risk in immobilization were one seemingly old bull and a yearling calf. All others posed no risk in capture and translocation intervention.

Candidates for ease of determination of the same dosage were grouped into four clusters. This was determined by the age, size and sex of the animals. Cluster number one composed of two big bulls and one big cow. The second cluster composed of four young mothers and a bull, third cluster composed of five sub adults and last cluster was of yearling calf only.

The buffalos were darted from a vehicle. For cluster one, 10mgs Etorphine and 180mgs Azaperone was used; cluster two, two darts of 8mgs Etorphine and 150mgs Azaperone and another two for 7mgs Etorphine and 130mgs Azaperone; for cluster three, two darts comprising of 5mgs Etorphine and 100mgs Azaperone and two for 4mgs Etorphine and 80mgs Azaperone, while the last one, for the yearling calf, constituted 2.5mgs Etorphine and 50mgs Azaperone. A Dan-inject dart gun was used to deliver the darts to the targeted candidates.

Darting was only done in a relatively open and sloped area, and was aimed to be done during the cool hours of the day in the early morning. The herd was ambushed at the top of the sloped area, completely unaware of the exercise on day one. One darting vehicle approached the herd while the other darting vehicle was strategically placed at the foot of the sloped area just in case they went down. The initial plan was to have eight candidates darted for the first trip as per the carrying crate. Candidates were darted one after the other.

Cluster one candidates were darted first, followed by two individuals of cluster two and one candidate of cluster three. This made a total of six individuals darted. All were immobilized close to one another, with the furthest being 20 meters away. It took 15 minutes for the un-darted members of the herd to run away into the forest Loading was done at an open parking area at the top of the darting site. A shovel from the mining company was used to move the animals to the loading site. At the loading site, the animals were transferred from the shovel to the carrying crate manually. Two females were first at the loading site and were placed into the front chamber where they were revived from the anaesthesia. This was followed by two females and one

bull in the rear chamber. They were revived simultaneously. The last male to be recovered was placed in the rear chamber and revived immediately, after the three in rear chamber were moved to the front chamber temporarily. After full recovery from the anaesthesia, two females were moved from front chamber to rear chamber. This created equality and avoided putting the two big bulls in one chamber because of possible aggression.

Each was revived using 40mgs Naltrexone injected into jugular vein. At the loading site before revival, each had a blood sample taken which was preserved in plain and EDTA blood tubes, as well as tick samples taken from all over the body and tissue from the ear. All were placed in a cool box for further processing afterwards.

The buffalos were transported to Shimba Hill N.P. for release. The second darting was attempted in the cool afternoon hours of the same day, but the animals were now scared and fled to the nearby thick forested Gongoni Forest. The exercise was futile.

The second and third day attempts also proved futile as the animal’s evaded human contact by sticking to thick forested areas and wandering only at night. This informed an attempt for a possible night capture. A night watch team were instructed to keep a watch on the animals and call when they were sighted as the capture team remained on standby. The animals were spotted near the same location where the initial darting was done. An ambush was done at three o’clock in the morning and successfully darted two (females) from cluster three and one (male) from cluster two. Enough lights were procured by the firm for the exercise.

Loading and revival was done as for the previous. These three individuals were released at day break at Shimba Hills N.P. Two days were added for the operation aimed at capturing the four remaining buffaloes. The animals became too elusive as they avoided all human contact both during the day and night with extreme fear of any light at night. This made both day and night capture futile. It became obvious that these animals needed time to calm down and possibly forget the human encounter they had been predisposed to.

The exercise was postponed for a later date. Animals translocated composed of three males and six females.

Two sub adults, a young mother and a yearling calf are the four buffaloes yet to be captured.

Case 5 – 24th March 2019 Elephant

Spear

Sala Gate, Tsavo East National Park

A report was received from KWS Rangers manning Sala gate within Tsavo East National Park, about an injured elephant bull limping badly while heading to the nearby Galana River. The vet team drove to the area which is 100Kms away, and found the bull together with another in the river drinking water.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was pushed out of the river, then approached slowly by a vehicle, but his friend became aggressive and wanted to attack the vet vehicle. Finally, the injured bull was darted on the rump after his friend moved away. He was trailed slowly from a distance as he hobbled away in pain. He went down after 8 minutes and fell on a fallen palm tree which had to be cut and pulled out.

There was a penetrating spear wound on the medial aspect of the right front limb with swelling and infection of the elbow joint. The wound was flushed with large amounts of normal saline, antiseptics, doused with tinture of Iodine and sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and finally covered with green clay. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl. Prognosis The bull struggled to stand, but finally stood and walked away. Prognosis is guarded due to elbow joint infection.

Case 6 – 25th March 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem

Sala Gate, Tsavo East National Park

A report was made by the camp manager of Satao Camp, Tsavo East, that a fresh elephant carcass had been spotted that morning near their water hole, within Tsavo East National Park. The vet unit drove to the area to undertake an autopsy.

Post-mortem Examination The fresh carcass was lying on the left flank near Satao Camp’s water hole and both tusks were intact. Upon examination there were two injuries on the back near the left of lumbar vertebral column. The penetrating wound at the lumbo-sacral area went through the skin, the muscles and entered the peritoneal cavity puncturing the left kidney and causing massive internal haemorrhage. The peritoneal fluid was bloody and copious due to bleeding. The injury was inflicted from above the animal (indicative of raised ground or a platform).

Cause of Death The cause of death was internal haemorrhage and shock from penetrating wound caused by spear

Case 7 – 28th March 2019 Elephant

Arrow

Komboyo, Tsavo West National Park

The SWT de-snaring team in Tsavo West reported an elephant bull with a suspected arrow injury on the front limb. The vet team accompanied by the de-snaring teams found the bull together with others drinking water near Komboyo airstrip camp site. The bull had an obvious injury to the right front limb area with pus oozing out.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was approached by vehicle and darted on the rump. He ran off followed by the other bulls for a short distance and went down lying on the injured side. His friends became aggressive and the vet unit had to call for assistance from the de-snaring vehicle who pushed the other bulls away. Having fallen on the injured side, the injured bull was rolled over using ropes tied unto the vet landcruiser, assisted by the desnaring vehicle.

The bull had a wound on the lateral aspect of the right front limb. The wound was enlarged and pus drained out, then cleaned with water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide, doused with Tinture of Iodine, sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and finally covered with wetted green clay. The wound was probed but the arrow head must have fallen out. The elephant was administered with long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl. d with large amounts of normal saline mixed with antiseptics to wash out the pus and necrotic tissue debris.

Prognosis The bull stood up and chased the vet and de-snaring vehicles for about 200 metres. Prognosis is good.

Case 8 – 28th March 2019 Elephant

Spear

Voi Wildlife Lodge, Tsavo East National Park

Tourists, who saw a lame young elephant bull at Voi Wildlife Lodge watering hole, reported it to the KWS office in Nairobi who in turn contacted the Tsavo East office and finally the SWT/KWS Tsavo vet was called.

The young elephant had a serious lame left hind limb caused by a penetrating wound to the left rump.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was pushed out of the watering point then approached on foot and darted. Due to lameness he couldn’t run far and fell a few metres away.

The elephant bull had a deep penetrating wound to the left rump with copious amounts of pus oozing out.

Probing revealed a wound, possibly from a spear, going down through the skin and muscles of the pelvic region with accompanying infection. The pus and dead tissue debris were drained and the wound flushed with tincture of Iodine and sprayed with antibiotic spray. A final cover of wetted green clay was administered over the wound. Long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone Hcl were given IM and IV respectively.

Prognosis Prognosis is guarded due to hip joint inflammation.

Other Activities •

The unit vet testified in four cases at Voi law courts where offenders were charged with being in possession of government trophies

•

The vet examined 31 pieces of elephant tusks, 259 pieces of pangolin scales, 1 leopard skin and 1 crocodile skin held at Makindu and Mtito Andei police stations for various offences and produced 12 expert reports to aid in prosecution of offenders at Makindu law courts

•

One working canine based at Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary and four others based at SWT Kaluku K-9 base were administered with Trypanasomosis prophylactic medication to curb the deadly infection

•

The SWT Tsavo Veterinary unit teamed up with Tsavo West security, research and management teams to drive wild animals from Gicheha farm in Ziwani in Taveta sub-county to Tsavo West National Park. More than half of the approximate 200 wild animals consisting zebras, oryx, wildebeest, impala, eland and giraffe were driven back to Tsavo West National Park using KWS helicopter assisted by ground teams. The exercise continues at a later date.

by Dr Jeremiah Poghon

SWT/KWS MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OVERVIEW January – March 2019

20 Cases

9 Poaching Cases

10 Elephant Cases

The Mara Mobile Vet Unit attended to 20 cases, involving 19 elephants, 4 predators and 5 plains game. Of the 20 cases, 9 were directly related to poaching; 3 arrow, 4 snares, 2 spear, and 4 to human-wildlife conflict, as well as 4 for natural causes, 2 rescues and the removal of a restraining rope from an elephant calf.

Cases Attended to by Mara SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019 5

Other

4

Giraffe Plains Game

3

Predators 2

Elephant

1

0 Arrow

Human Wildlife Conflict

Spear

Snared

Natural Causes

Rescue

Technical Cases

Outcomes of Cases Attended to by Mara SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019

Taken to Orphanage 10%

Successful Cases 70%

HWC Death 10%

Poaching Death 5%

Died 5%

KWS/SWT Mara Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations January - March 2019

SWT/KWS MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JANUARY 2019

Introduction

2 Cases in January

1 Lion Case

1 HWC Case

January Report by Dr. Campaign Limo The Mobile Veterinary Unit team resumed work towards the end of December. December saw some scattered showers which contributed to green plains and there was an abundance of water available to the wildlife. Many elephant herds have been seen throughout the Masai Mara National Reserve with plenty of food and water. However, there was a sad incident within the ecosystem which involved the loss of 22 vultures and a hyena. The vultures were reported to have scavenged on the hyena. This was a suspected poisoning incident and samples have been submitted to the government chemist for analysis.

Acknowledgement The Mobile Veterinary Unit would like to give appreciation to all partners and stakeholders who have contributed in one way or another towards saving wildlife in the ecosystem during the period. Thanks to Minara Foundation through SWT for their facilitation to the unit. Thanks to KWS Management for their technical support to the unit.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

26-Jan-19

Lion

Mara Triangle

27-Jan-19

Vulture

Masai Mara

27-Jan-19

Vulture

Masai Mara

27-Jan-19

Hyena

Masai Mara

Reason for Intervention Natural Causes Human Wildlife Conflict Human Wildlife Conflict Human Wildlife Conflict

Outcome

Multiple bite wounds sustained from suspected territorial fights

Successfully Treated

22 adult vultures of different species died after scavenging on a poisoned hyena

HWC Death

22 vultures had been seen scavenging on a spotted hyena. 4 vultures found alive and treated

Successfully Treated

A hyena died mysteriously, resulting in the death of 22 vultures - suspected poisoning

HWC Death

Case 1 – 26th January 2019 Lion

Natural Causes

Mara Triangle, Masai Mara NR

This young male estimated to be two and half years was seen alone with injuries by Mara Triangle Conservancy rangers on patrol. They requested the services of the Mobile Veterinary Unit for assessment and treatment. The lion was traced to a small thicket, alone and seemingly in pain. When agitated, he reluctantly stood and made minimal movements. He had visible injuries sustained from attack by other lions.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The lion was darted from a vehicle, then moved into a shaded area. The initial examination revealed relatively fresh, multiple bite wounds sustained from suspected territorial fights. The injuries appeared relatively fresh. All the wounds were cleaned with Hydrogen Peroxide and gauze swabs then disinfected with tincture of Iodine and lastly Cloxacillin ointment was infused to counter sepsis.

The vet also administered Amoxicillin antibiotic, Anti-inflammatories as well as an Ivomectin parasiticide which will get rid of internal and external parasites including potential maggot infestation.

Prognosis The lion was successfully revived and prognosis for full recovery is good.

Case 2 – 27th January 2019 Vultures/Hyena

HWC – Poisoning

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

A report was made to Mara Mobile Veterinary Unit by Olare Motorogi Conservancy management on the afternoon of 27th January 2019 that a number of vultures had died within the conservancy off Talek – Aitong road. They further reported that the affected vultures had been seen scavenging on a spotted hyena that had died mysteriously at the same location. All vultures died within a radius of ten meters from the hyena carcass.

General Observation The following were the findings at the site: All the vultures and the spotted hyena carcasses had been destroyed through burning by the first responders.

It was reported that 22 adult vultures of different species had died after scavenging on the hyena that had died that morning. Four vultures were found unable to fly with signs of lethargy, diarrhoea, laboured breathing and drooping heads.

One of them had a visibly distended crop while the rest appeared to have emptied their crops. Based on history and the picture of clinical signs, poisoning was considered as a major differential with the following treatments being administered to each vulture: • • •

Atropine sulphate 0.5mgs given intramuscularly once every 40 minutes.

Dexamethasone sodium 1.5mgs given once intramuscularly.

40mls of 10% dextrose given subcutaneously.

Two of the vultures (A lappet faced and Hooded vulture) recovered instantly and flew away with the remaining two (Lappet faced and Rueppell’s griffon) being transferred to KWS Mara Research station for further observation and management.

Conclusion and Way Forward •

The pattern of deaths and clinical signs displayed highly suggest a case of poisoning

•

Quick destruction of carcasses by burning denied the attending team opportunity to collect adequate samples, however one vulture had its engorged crop massaged and regurgitates collected as samples for toxicological analysis.

•

Only part of the hyena intestines were salvaged as the whole carcass had been burned. Pieces of intestinal tissue had been left behind and was collected as part of the sample for analysis.

•

Rangers were advised to comb the area and collect any carcass for proper disposal to avoid potential secondary and tertiary poisonings. Any sick looking bird to be identified and reported to the relevant teams for attention. The rangers were also advised to be vigilant as it is possible to have more deaths over the next few days or even weeks.

The two vultures recovered fully and were released after two days of treatment and observation.

Report by Dr. Campaign Limo

SWT/KWS MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT February 2019

Introduction

8 Cases in February

6 Elephant Cases

4 Poaching Cases

February Report by Dr. Campaign Limo The conservation area received minimum precipitation during the month with water and browsing material becoming scarce. Most animals were seen concentrating near swamps and watering points. Few cases requiring intervention were reported.

Acknowledgement The Mara Mobile Veterinary Unit wishes to extend appreciation to all stake holders for reporting and monitoring cases that required intervention. Thanks to the Minara foundation through SWT for their continued facilitation of the unit. Thanks too, to KWS management for their advice and guidance that has seen many species saved.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

01-Feb19

Elephant

Oloisukut Conservancy, Masai Mara

10-Feb19

Hyena

12-Feb19

Reason for Intervention

Outcome

Rescue

This calf was alone and abandoned. The calf was slowly losing condition with signs of malnutrition

Taken to Orphanage

Mara Triangle, Masai Mara

Snared

He was seen alone with the tight snare round his neck.

Successfully Treated

Elephant

Mara Triangle, Masai Mara

Snared

A snare round his trunk that was tight round the upper a third of his trunk

Successfully Treated

13-Feb19

Lion

Masai Mara National Reserve

Natural Causes

Examination revealed complete fracture of the lower jaw with sepsis, possibly from a kick from large prey.

Died

19-Feb19

Elephant

Pardamat, Masai Mara

Natural Causes

A swollen elbow joint possibly caused by a sprain.

Successfully Treated

21-Feb19

Elephant

Olarro Conservancy, Masai Mara

Natural Causes

An old scar from a blow to her right hip joint possibly causing dislocation of the leg

Successfully Treated

24-Feb19

Zebra

Masai Mara National Reserve

Snared

This zebra was seen dragging a plain wire attached to her neck

Successfully Treated

Elephant

Masai Mara National Reserve

Arrow

Carcass was opened, and a poisoned barbed arrowhead was retrieved with severe necrosis at the lodged area

Poaching Death

25-Feb19

Case 1 – 1st February 2019 Elephant

Rescue

Oloisukut Conservancy

This abandoned calf was seen by Oloisukut Conservancy Rangers whilst on patrol. They informed the TransMara KWS team who helped them in trying to trace the mother. After a week of monitoring, there was clear evidence this calf was alone and abandoned. The calf was slowly losing condition with signs of malnutrition being exhibited by pot belly and bony tissue prominences.

A decision to rescue this calf was arrived at after consultation with all relevant stakeholders.

Rescue The vet and rescue team traced and darted this calf from foot with 60mgs Azaperone tartarate, which was enough to calm the calf so she could be physically restrained. Examination revealed she had no physical injuries. She was loaded onto a padded truck and taken to the nearest airstrip. A plane was waiting at the airstrip and she was loaded swiftly and taken to the SWT elephant orphanage in Nairobi to be nurtured back to health and eventually reintegrated back into the wild.

Case 2 – 10th February Hyena

Snared

Mara Triangle, Masai Mara

This young spotted hyena was seen dragging a long snare fixed round his neck by Mara Triangle Rangers on their daily patrols. They called the Mobile Veterinary Unit to help de-snare the animal.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The Vet Team found the hyena alone with a tight snare around his neck. He appeared uncomfortable as he dragged the snare around when moving. The vet darted the hyena with a combination of 1.5mgs Etorphine hydrochloride and 1mgs Medetomidine and the drugs took full effect after 3 minutes. A blindfold was put in place before commencement of examination and treatment.

The long cable wire around his neck had created a shallow wound. The wire was cut loose, and the septic wound was debrided with Hydrogen peroxide. The wound was then rinsed with clean water and tincture of Iodine applied before it was sprayed with Oxytetracycline antibiotic spray. Other treatments include Amoxicillin antibiotic and an anti- inflammatory.

Prognosis The hyena woke up shortly after treatment and moved to the shade. Prognosis is good

Case 3 – 12th February 2019 Elephant

Snared

Mara Triangle, Masai Mara

This elephant calf, in the company of his mother and other family members, was seen in the morning on the 12th February with a tight snare round his trunk, by Mara Triangle Rangers on patrol.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The snare was tight around the upper third of his trunk, however his body condition appeared satisfactory.

The calf was immobilised, and the drugs took full effect after four minutes with the calf assuming left lateral recumbency. The mother and the other family members were pushed aside in order to attend to the calf.

The snare had created an open wound with partial exposure of his nasal nares. The lower part of the trunk was still functional and had good nerve and blood supply. The cable wire was released and the resultant wound, which appeared relatively fresh, was cleaned with water. Iodine and an antibiotic spray. The snare could have been there for about one week. Other treatments included Amoxicillin antibiotic and an antiinflammatory.

Prognosis Good. The injury will heal with time. The opening on the nares will retract substantially with the functions of the trunk barely affected.

Case 4 – 13th February 2019 Lion

Natural Causes

Masai Mara National Reserve

This young cub was seen with a hanging lower jaw by County Security Rangers who called the Mobile Veterinary Unit for intervention.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The cub was found in the company of other pride members, emaciated, unable to suckle and appearing to be in pain. The lower jaw was hanging.

She was restrained manually with the help of a towel and sedated with 0.6mgs Medetomidine. Examination revealed complete fracture of the lower jaw with sepsis. This could have been caused by a blow, possibly from a kick from larger prey. This cub had lost condition and was evidently unable to feed.

Prognosis It was going to be impossible for her to live in this situation and a decision to end her suffering was arrived at.

Case 5 – 19th February 2019 Elephant

Natural Causes

Pardamat Conservancy

This big bull was seen by KWS, Mara Elephant Project and Pardamat Rangers whilst on patrol. He was alone and moved with a limping gait. He had been treated for a similar problem in December with little improvement.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment He was found alone in a thicket and resisted any attempt to be pushed towards an open place. He moved slowly with an obvious limp of his left forelimb. After resisting several attempts to be pushed into the open, he eventually made a slight move to the edge of the bush where the vet was able to dart him from foot.

Examination revealed a swollen elbow joint suspected to have been caused by sprain. His right foot also had an injury likely caused by stepping on a sharp object. The swollen limb was massaged for a few minutes whilst the wound on the right foot was debrided with Hydrogen peroxide, rinsed with clean water, disinfected with tincture of Iodine and infused with Cloxacillin antibiotic ointment. Other treatments given include parenteral administration of Amoxicillin antibiotic and Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory.

Prognosis Good.

Case 6 – 21st February 2019 Elephant

Natural Causes

Olarro Conservancy

This young elephant was seen limping by KWS, Mara Elephant Project and Olarro Rangers whilst on patrol.

They called the Mobile Veterinary Unit for intervention.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment After manoeuvring up the hill, the vet was able to dart this elephant from the vehicle and the elephant was fully narcotized after seven minutes. Examination revealed an old scar from a blow to her right hip joint possibly causing dislocation of the leg at this point. This was a long-standing injury that had since healed. The leg appeared slightly wasted likely from atrophy of disuse. She was given Amoxicillin antibiotics to counter any potential infections from the stress of capture and Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory.

Prognosis Good. She should be able to live positively with the deformity.

Case 7 – 24th February 2019 Zebra

Snare

Masai Mara National Reserve

This zebra was seen dragging a plain wire around her neck by the Mobile Veterinary Team on their way from other assignments within the Reserve. She was in the company of other zebras grazing but noticeably restless.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The vet darted the zebra from a vehicle with a combination of 5mgs Etorphine hydrochloride and 50mgs Azaperone tartarate in a 1.5ml dan-inject dart. The drugs took full effect after four minutes.

Examination revealed a relatively tight plain wire snare round her neck, possibly in place for less than a week.

No injuries had been caused by the snare which was removed without difficulty. No treatment was considered necessary and the zebra was immediately reversed with 18mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride delivered through the jugular vein.

Prognosis Prognosis is good. She rose up within one minute of reversal to join the other zebras waiting nearby.

Case 8 – 25th February 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem, Arrow

Masai Mara National Reserve

This big elephant over 45 years old was seen struggling to stand by County Government Rangers on patrol.

They called the Mobile Veterinary Unit to intervene, but he died whilst the team was heading to the scene to assist.

General Examination He was found on his right lateral recumbency with signs of a struggle at the scene before death. His body condition was good. When the carcass was turned over, a small swelling was seen on his right thigh. On opening the swelling a poisoned barbed arrowhead was retrieved with severe necrosis at the lodged area.

On opening the carcass all other organs appeared normal. The tusks were retrieved for safe custody and eventual transfer to KWS by the County Security Personnel.

Prognosis This elephant died from a poisoned arrow lodged in the right thigh.

Report by Dr. Campaign Limo

SWT/KWS MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT March 2019

Introduction

8 Cases in March

5 Elephant Cases

4 Poaching Cases

March Report by Dr. Campaign Limo During March, the Mara region received a few sporadic showers of rain, however, most of the days were dry with diminishing forage and water for use by wildlife. Cases handled during the period involved elephant treatments with one big male relieved and treated for a wound caused by a tight cable wire snare round his trunk. Other elephants were treated for human induced injuries but all of them were considered out of danger.

Acknowledgement The Mara Mobile Veterinary unit would like to thank all stakeholders who assisted in one way or the other while attending to these cases. Thanks to Minara foundation through SWT for their facilitation and support to the unit. Thanks too to KWS management for their guidance and technical support.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

Outcome

Technical Case

Removal of a restraining rope from an elephant calf that was assisted

Task Successful

10-Mar-19 Elephant Olarro Conservancy

Arrow

This big bull collared and christened Lempiris had a septic arrow wound on his right hind leg

Successfully Treated

16-Mar-19 Elephant Olarro Conservancy

Snared

This bull was seen with a tight snare round his trunk

Successfully Treated

16-Mar-19 Elephant Olarro Conservancy

Spear

This big bull who was in company of the previously treated bull was spotted with a spear wound on his right rump.

Successfully Treated

17-Mar-19 Elephant

Masai Mara NR

Rescue

. Rescue of a confirmed elephant orphan that was seen alone for many days

Taken to Orphanage

18-Mar-19

Cheetah

Masai Mara NR

Natural Causes

He had an injury on his perineal area with left testicle fully exposed

Successfully Treated

20-Mar-19

Giraffe

Olarro Conservancy

Arrow

Examination revealed a freshly lodged poisoned arrowhead which was barbed.

Successfully Treated

Zebra

Bobasi, Nyamira County. WESTERN KENYA

HumanWildlife Conflict

Stranded and wandering around in a local community. Some villagers had complained that she had destroyed their crops

Task Successful

08-Mar-19 Elephant

23-Mar-19

Lemek Conservancy

Reason for Intervention

Case 1 – 8th March 2019 Elephant

Technical Case

Lemek Conservancy

This young calf was part of a herd of elephants who had crossed the Mara River into a nearby farming community and eventually driven back to the conservancy by Lemek Conservancy, Mara Elephant Project and KWS rangers. In the process, this young calf lagged behind and was unable to climb up the river bank.

The teams assisted him after manually restraining him with ropes, but since his family, which was known, had gone some distance, he was put in a vehicle and taken to where his family was. The mother charged at the releasing team when she saw her calf and the rangers were unable to fully remove the rope before the calf took off, rejoining his mother.

Capture and Removal of the Rope The family was traced to a small thicket within the Conservancy and were gently driven out into an open area. The mother was very aggressive and protective of the calf. The team decided to immobilize the mother and restrain the calf manually after pushing the other family members a short distance for the safety of team members. It took eight minutes for the drugs to take full effect; the mother assumed left lateral recumbency and the calf remained close to the immobilized mother. He was manually restrained and the rope removed from the right hind limb. The mother was then reversed with 42mgs Diprenorphine hydrochloride and together with the calf joined the patiently waiting family.

Case 2 – 10th March 2019 Elephant

Collaring

Olarro Conservancy

This big collared bull is christened Lempiris, and he is known to wander into farmlands. He was collared to monitor his movements and advise management to reduce human – elephant conflict. His collar was failing but he had been seen close to farmland and suspected to be harbouring an injury.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The Vet Team found Lempiris in a bush by the edge of a tomato farm with another equally big bull. Due to poor terrain, approach by vehicle or on foot was deemed challenging and a helicopter, that was on standby, was used to drive him out and dart him. He walked with a slight limp. After darting, it took ten minutes for the drugs to take full effect and he assumed sternal recumbency. He was pushed onto the left lateral side for examination.

He had a septic arrow wound on his right hind leg which was debrided with Hydrogen peroxide, disinfected with tincture of Iodine and infused with Cloxacillin ointment then sprayed with Oxytetracycline. He was also given Amoxicillin antibiotic and Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory. Given that his collar was twisted and failing in transmission, it was an opportunity for it to be replaced and was done in conjunction with relevant stakeholders.

Prognosis He woke up three minutes after reversal and headed to where the other bull had remained. Prognosis is good

Case 3 – 16th March 2019 Elephant

Snared

Olarro Conservancy

This bull was seen by Olarro Conservancy Rangers with a tight snare round his trunk. The Vet Team found him with an equally big bull that had a spear injury on his rump and was also treated. A big herd of elephants were browsing peacefully close by.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of 17mgs Etorphine hydrochloride delivered through a 3ml Daninject dart from a vehicle. It took ten minutes for the drugs to take full effect with this elephant assuming left lateral recumbency. Examination revealed a tight cable snare around his trunk with partial perforation of his right nostril. The snare was cut loose and released with the resultant septic wound being debrided with help of Hydrogen peroxide and sterile gauze swabs. Clean water was used for rinsing before tincture of Iodine was applied for disinfection. Oxytetracycline wound spray was also applied topically. Other treatments given include parenteral administration of Amoxicillin antibiotics and Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatories. The small perforation into the nostril is expected to close as the wound heals.

Prognosis He rose up within three minutes of reversal and retreated to a nearby thicket. Prognosis for recovery is good.

Case 4 – 16th March 2019 Elephant

Spear

Olarro Conservancy

This big bull who was in company of the previously treated bull was spotted to be having a spear wound on his right rump. A team was tasked to keep an eye on him while the first bull was being treated for eventual immobilization and treatment.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised with 17mgs Etorphine hydrochloride delivered through a 3ml dan-inject dart.

Darting was done from a vehicle with the drugs taking full effect after eight minutes. This elephant assumed right lateral recumbency. Examination revealed a fresh spear wound, less than 24 hours old and about ten inches deep, on his right rump. This wound was flushed with clean water and wiped dry with gauze swabs, after which tincture of Iodine was used to disinfect the wound. Cloxacillin antibiotic was infused before Oxytetracycline spray was applied. Other treatments given included parenteral administration of Amoxicillin antibiotic and Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory.

Prognosis Prognosis is good. He woke up three minutes after reversal and moved away.

Case 5 – 17th March 2019 Elephant

Rescue

Masai Mara National Reserve

This baby elephant was spotted the previous day browsing alone with no elephant family nearby. A team of rangers were tasked to monitor this calf to provide security and confirm his status. A decomposing carcass of an adult female elephant had been found near this location three days earlier raising the possibility that this calf was hers and had been orphaned.

Rescue On the day of rescue, a passing family of elephants comprising of one mother with three calves, one still suckling, briefly joined this calf. The encounter was friendly but brief as they moved on after a few minutes leaving this calf alone. Given the age of this calf and presence of large carnivores within the conservation area, the teams felt this calf had to be rescued to have any chance of survival. At his age in the wild he was eventually going to die of malnourishment if he survived predation.

He was calmed by use of 50mgs Azaperone tartarate delivered through a 1.5ml dan-inject dart, from a vehicle with the drugs taking full effect after ten minutes. He was then restrained manually before being loaded onto a padded truck. This baby elephant was picked at Olkiombo airstrip by plane and taken to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage in Nairobi. .

Case 6 – 18th March 2019 Cheetah

Natural Causes

Masai Mara National Reserve

This adult male, a member of the famous 5 musketeers creating big tourist attraction in Mara. was seen injured by tour guides and Reserve rangers and called the mobile veterinary unit for help. The injured was reported to be the biggest and leader of the coalition.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of a combination of 1.6mgs Medetomidine and 130mgs Ketamine delivered through a 3ml dan-inject dart. It took seven minutes for the drugs to take full effect after which he was blindfolded and taken to a nearby shade. After being placed in a comfortable position and posture, examination was conducted. He had a severe injury to his perineal area with the left testicle hanging out.

This could have been caused by being stepped on or gored by prey while making a kill. The wound was washed clean with water, wiped with sterile gauze and disinfected with surgical spirit. The spermatic cord was double ligated with absorbable suture before the hanging testicle was excised. All bleeders were arrested. Tincture of Iodine and Cloxacillin ointment were applied to the wounds for disinfection, and as antibiotic, respectively.

Prognosis Good.

Case 7 – 20th March 2019 Giraffe

Arrow

Olarro Conservancy

This giraffe bull was seen the morning of this date by Olarro Conservancy rangers with an arrow head sticking from his withers. They called the Mobile Veterinary unit for help. He was a big mature bull in a herd of ten giraffes browsing within the Conservancy. He appeared irritated due to the discomfort caused by the lodged arrow head. The arrowhead was visible from a distance.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Examination revealed a freshly lodged poisoned arrowhead which was barbed. The arrowhead was gently pulled out and the resultant wound flushed with copious amount of water to remove as much of the poison as possible. Hydrogen peroxide was used for debriding and sterile gauze was used for swabbing and removal of debris before rinsing with clean water. After wiping it once again with sterile gauze, tincture of Iodine and Cloxacillin ointment were applied for disinfection, and as an antibiotic, respectively. Other treatments included parenteral administration of Amoxicillin antibiotics and Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatories.

Prognosis He was then released and he rose up and galloped to join the herd. Prognosis for recovery is good.

Case 8 – 23rd March 2019 Zebra

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Nyamirqa County

This young female was reported stranded and wandering around by local administrators within the county.

The administrators raised concern regarding her safety given that some villagers had complained that she had destroyed their crops. The Mobile Veterinary Unit together with the local KWS staff decided to capture and relocate her to a suitable conservation area to avert potential conflict.

Capture and Relocation This young female was traced to a village in the county having formed a bond with a domestic donkey. After a brief discussion with the villagers and administrators to explain the action to be taken, she was restrained chemically with 5mgs Etorphine and 1mg Medetomidine delivered remotely trough a 1.5ml dan-inject dart from foot. The drugs took effect after four minutes and she was stabilized before being placed on the back of a truck on sternal recumbency for relocation. She was constantly monitored during transit with additional sedation of Medetomidine to calm her.

She was eventually released in Oloisukut Conservancy with another zebra herd after the anaesthesia and sedation were reversed. She woke up within one minute of reversal to mingle with the new herd.

SWT/KWS AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OVERVIEW January – March 2019

25 Cases

5 Poaching Cases

13 Elephant Cases

The Amboseli Mobile Vet Unit attended to 25 cases, involving 13 elephants, 2 predators, 4 plains game and 3 giraffes. During the reporting period, the Unit also attended to sick tracker dogs, illegally held guinea fowl and a hippo post-mortem. Of the 20 cases, 5 were directly related to poaching and all involved elephants.

There were 3 human-wildlife conflict cases, as well as 9 natural causes cases, 3 rescues, 4 post-mortems and research conducted on wildebeest.

Cases Attended to by Amboseli SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019 10 9 8 Other

7

Giraffe

6

Plains Game

5

Predators 4 Elephant 3 2 1 0 Arrow

Human Wildlife Conflict

Spear

Natural Causes

Postmortem

Rescue

Research/Survey

Outcomes of Cases Attended to by Amboseli SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019 Taken to Orphanage 4% Prognosis Poor 4% Successful Cases 48%

Poaching Death 4% HWC Death 12%

Died 28%

KWS/SWT Amboseli Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations January - March 2019

SWT/KWS AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JANUARY 2019

Introduction

4 Cases in January

3 Elephant Cases

75% Success

January Report by Edward Kariuki The Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit (AMVU) attended to 4 clinical cases during the month of January 2019. Three (on wildlife and one case involving two security dogs. Wild animals treated included two elephants and a zebra.

One elephant was treated for injury while the second examined for cause of death. One security dog was treated for abnormal swelling and the second one treated for an ear infection. The zebra was assisted in delivering after the foal died before complete delivery.

Acknowledgement We thank the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) for material support and Mobile Unit funding, KWS for logistical support and security. Wildlife Works, and SWT rangers for reporting and monitoring of distressed wild animals.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

Reason for Intervention

04-Jan-19

Security Dog

Kaluku, Tsavo East

Natural Causes

Two ill dogs were reported; one with swelling and one with an ear infection

09-Jan-19

Elephant

Amboseli Ecosystem

Natural Causes

The foal was looped with the umbilicus Successfully and was stuck during birth Treated

10-Jan-19

Elephant

20-Jan-19

Elephant

Amboseli Ecosystem Amboseli NP

Natural Causes Postmortem

The male elephant suffered a closed fracture of the foreleg Body tissues were intact and looked dehydrated

Outcome Successfully Treated

Successfully Treated Died

Case 1 – 4th January 2019 Security Dog

Natural Causes

Kaluku, Tsavo East

Two ill dogs were reported to AMVU, one with swelling and a second dog suffered ear infection.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Dog #1 had a swelling at the backline at the level of the lumbar vertebrae. The dog was restrained manually using a muzzle and leash, then kept in a standing position for ease of treatment. The dog was treated systemically with 5ml of Amoxicillin given intramuscularly. 3ml cortisone was administered to ease the swelling among other inflammatory signs.

Naiko suffered an ear infection that had been treated but recurred. The dog was restrained manually using a muzzle and leash, then kept in a standing position for ease of manoeuvres and treatment. Naiko was treated for otitis; wax was cleaned using swabs wetted in surgical spirit, and a vial of Gentamycin ear drop was given for daily administration via the ear canal.

Prognosis Prognosis for dog~1 is good as there are no complications to the swelling and for Naiko, the prognosis is fair as there are complications and the infections keep recurring.

Case 2 – 9th January 2019 Zebra

Natural Causes

Amboseli National Park

The zebra was reported by KWS rangers while on Park patrol.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The zebra was located and darted from a vehicle. It was immobilized and went down in about 10 minutes, then placed on lateral recumbency for ease of foal removal. The foal was looped with the umbilicus and couldn’t move. The foal was retracted in, and the umbilicus twist unwound from the foreleg. The calf and the reproductive tract were lubricated with oil and then removed with moderate traction.

Prognosis The prognosis was good as there were no complications from the traction of the foal.

Case 3 – 10th January 2019 Elephant

Natural Causes

Amboseli National Park

Satao camp management reported the elephant to the Senior warden-Tsavo East National Park who reported the elephant to the AMVU. Mr Trevor Jennings from SWT picked the AMVU team from the airstrip and assisted in locating the elephant.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was located and darted from a vehicle. It was immobilized chemically using 20mg Etorphine Hcl. It went down in about 5 minutes and was placed on lateral recumbency for ease of treatment.

The male elephant suffered a close fracture of the foreleg. The leg was not infected, and the elephant suffered no other physical harm from the swelling. The bull was treated systemically with 100ml of Amoxicillin (Betamox LAÂŽ) administered through intramuscular route. Additionally, 20ml Cortisone was administered to ease the swelling. A small wound at the belly was treated with oxytetracycline spray to cover for flystrike and secondary bacterial infection.

Prognosis Prognosis is good!

Case 3 – 10th January 2019 Elephant

Post-Mortem

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli Park rangers on patrol reported a dead elephant calf to AMVU on 20/01/2019. KWS rangers directed and assisted the AMVU in accessing the carcass and site for the necropsy.

Examination and Findings Gross observations: The carcass was found lying on the lateral position in a marshy area. Body tissues were intact and looked dehydrated. Tissue membranes were anaemic and yellowish. The peritoneal space filled with fibrineous tissue and fluid. The elephant had no visible tusks on her since she was young. The cause was fibrinopurulent peritonitis of unknown cause.

Report by Dr. Edward Kariuki

SWT/KWS AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT February 2019

Introduction

10 Cases in February

4 Elephant Cases

4 Poaching Cases

February Report by Dr. Edward Kariuki Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit (AMVU) attended to 10 clinical cases this month. Animals attended included four elephants, two zebras, two hyenas, two guinea fowls and a giraffe and a wildebeest. The confiscated guinea fowls were examined and released to a licensed game farm. The birds could not be released into the wild because they were domesticated and hybridized. Two hyenas that died of suspected poisoning were examined for cause of death through a necropsy and samples submitted to the laboratory for confirmation. The elephants were all treated for injuries while a zebra foal and wildebeest kid were rescued for being orphaned and later released to favourable herds for adoption.

Acknowledgement We thank the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) for material support and Mobile Unit funding, KWS for logistical support and security. Biglife foundation, and SWT rangers for reporting and monitoring of distressed wild animals.

The SWT Pilots and Craig from Biglife are thanked for their assistance in the aerial surveillance of the elephants.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

Reason for Intervention

Outcome

04-Feb-19

Zebra

Amboseli National Park

Rescue

Signs of dehydration and the foal was inactive which might explain neglect by the herd

Taken to Orphanage

08-Feb-19

Zebra

Amboseli National Park

Natural Causes

Suffered a lumbar spinal fracture and could not stand. Possibly caused by a fall at high speed

Died

09-Feb-19

Guinea Fowl

Amboseli National Park

Rescue

Two guinea fowls were confiscated from their unlicensed owner.

Task Successful

13-Feb-19

Wildebeest

Amboseli National Park

Rescue

The wildebeest calf was rescued from Nkong Narok area. The calf was strong but found alone.

Task Successful

19-Feb-19

Elephant

Tsavo West National Park

Arrow

The elephant bull suffered from a huge swelling that was covered and hung from his belly.

Prognosis Fair

19-Feb-19

Elephant

Tsavo West National Park

Arrow

Suffered an open swelling on his belly. The swelling was not infected but bled continuously.

Successfully Treated

22-Feb-19

Giraffe

Kimana Group Ranch

Natural Causes

The giraffe had swollen feet. However, the legs were not infected and suffered no wound.

Died

23-Feb-19

Elephant

Chyulu Hills National Park

Arrow

The bull had a wound on the right hind leg. The injury was fresh, uninfected but bleeding

Successfully Treated

24-Feb-19

Elephant

Tsavo West National Park

Arrow

The bull had a wound on his foreleg. It was a closed injury that was very swollen.

Successfully Treated

28-Feb-19

Hyena

Kuku Group Ranch

HumanWildlife Conflict

Sick hyenas were reported but died by the time the Vet Unit arrived. Post-mortem conducted

HWC Death

Case 1 – 4th February 2019 Zebra

Rescue

Amboseli National Park

A zebra foal was rescued by KWS rangers on Patrol at Sentrim Hotel area. The calf was weak and dehydrated and needed medical care.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The foal was restrained manually to a standing position for ease of treatment. The foal was docile and too weak to resist any manoeuvre during treatment. The foal showed adequate signs of dehydration and was less alert to external stimuli. It was inactive, and that could help explain neglect by the maternal herd.

Fluids and electrolytes were compensated by rehydration using glucose and lactate fluids.

A physical exam using capillary refill time and membrane colour was used to estimate the hydration status. The foal was also treated systemically with antibiotics (5ml of Amoxicillin (Betamox LAÂŽ) through intramuscular route. The calf was fed on cow milk three times a day following her rescue. The foal recovered after feeding and became active to the extent that it walked to the park on the following day.

The calf followed a herd in the park and was sighted after a day; however, it could not be located after two days.

Prognosis The prognosis was good.

Case 2 – 8th February 2019 Zebra

Natural Causes

Amboseli National Park

A report of a recumbent male zebra was received from Sentrim Hotel area. The Zebra was reported struggling and unable to stand.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The Team attempted to manually restrain the zebra but were unsuccessful. 4mg Etorphine and 70mg Azaperone were used to immobilize the male zebra chemically. The zebra was placed on lateral recumbency for ease of examination. The Zebra had suffered a lumbar spine fracture and could not stand on his own. The fracture could have been caused by trauma after a fall while at high speed.

Prognosis As the prognosis was very unfavourable, the decision was made to euthanize the zebra. The zebra was euthanized using 20ml Sodium Pentobarbitone (Euthanaze). The drug was given intravenously through the jugular vein.

Case 3 – 9th February 2019 Guinea Fowl

Rescue

Amboseli National Park

Two guinea fowls were confiscated, at the Customs office in Loitoktok, as the owner was in illegal possession of the birds.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The birds were restrained manually and kept in-house at the Amboseli park HQ. The fowls were healthy and active. They had patchy markings that are associated with domestically bred fowls. The birds were domesticated and had characteristics indicating that they were probably not caught from the wild.

Prognosis As the birds were domesticated, they were held and given to the Loitoktok Warden to try and re-home them with a licensed farmer.

No photos were provided for this case.

Case 4 – 13th February 2019 Wildebeest

Rescue

Amboseli National Park

A wildebeest calf was rescued from Nkong Narok area. The calf was strong but found on her own.

Community elders assisted in rescuing and contacting the AMVU Team.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The calf was restrained manually and transported by vehicle. The calf was well hydrated and looked healthy. It was introduced into a wildebeest herd at Oldare swamp and was well received.

Prognosis The prognosis was fair as the adoption was relatively uncertain.

Case 5 – 19th February 2019 Elephant

Arrow

Tsavo West National Park

SWT Rangers reported the elephant to the AMVU Team. SWT aircraft was instrumental in monitoring the elephant after darting.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was located and darted from a vehicle. It became fully immobilized in about 10 minutes and fell on lateral position. The male elephant suffered a huge swelling that was closed and hung from his belly. The wound looked old but was filled with pus.

The swelling was ruptured to remove the pus and clean the wound. The bull was treated systemically with 100ml of Amoxicillin (Betamox LAÂŽ) administered intramuscularly. Additionally, Hydrogen Peroxide was used to debride the dead tissue. Iodine was also applied to treat any bacterial infection of the wound.

The wound at the belly was infused with Amoxicillin, and Oxytetracycline spray was used to cover it and protect it against flies and any secondary bacterial infections.

Prognosis The elephant was revived and prognosis for full recovery remained fair.

Case 6 – 19th February 2019 Elephant

Arrow

Tsavo West National Park

SWT Rangers reported the elephant to the AMVU Team. The SWT aircraft was used to monitor the elephant together with the AMVU Team.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was located and darted from a vehicle. It went down in about 9 minutes and fell and remained on lateral recumbency during the treatment. The male elephant suffered an open swelling at the belly. The swelling was not infected but bled continually. The elephant was treated systemically with 100ml of Amoxicillin (Betamox LAÂŽ) administered intramuscularly and prevent any bacterial infection.

Prognosis The elephant was revived and prognosis for full recovery is good.

Case 7 – 22nd February 2019 Giraffe

Natural Causes

Kimana Group Ranch, Amboseli

Big-Life Foundation rangers reported the giraffe to the AMVU Team. The giraffe was reported immobile and inactive.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The giraffe was located and darted on foot. It went down in about 7 minutes and was placed on lateral recumbency for ease of treatment. The male giraffe had swollen feet. However, the legs were not infected and suffered no wound apart from the distal feet swelling. The giraffe died before any treatment.

Resuscitation was tried but to no avail.

Case 8 – 23rd February 2019 Elephant

Arrow

Chyulu Hills National Park

Big-Life Foundation offices reported the elephant to the AMVU Team. The SWT helicopter assisted in pushing the elephant to a suitable working area out of the thick bush.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was located and darted from a helicopter. The bull was fully immobilized about 10 minutes after darting. The male elephant suffered a deep wound on the hind right leg, suspected to be an arrow wound. The injury was fresh and not infected, but the profuse bleeding observed caused concern for the health of the bull. The bull was treated systemically with a 100ml of Amoxicillin (Betamox LAÂŽ) administered intramuscularly. Additionally, the wound was treated with Oxytetracycline spray to protect the it from flies and secondary bacterial infection.

Prognosis The elephant was revived and prognosis for full recovery is good.

Case 9 – 24th February 2019 Elephant

Arrow

Tsavo West National Park

SWT reported the elephant to the AMVU Team.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was located and darted from a helicopter. The bull became fully immobilized in about 10 minutes. The male elephant had a wound on his foreleg. The leg suffered a closed injury that was swollen.

The elephant suffered no other physical harm from the swelling. The bull was treated systemically with 100ml of Amoxicillin (Betamox LAÂŽ) administered through intramuscular route. The wound was punctured to drain the pus, was cleaned and then covered in green clay to assist with the healing process.

Prognosis The elephant was revived and prognosis for full recovery is good.

Case 10 – 28th February 2019 Hyena

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Kuku Group Ranch, Amboseli

Mr Muterian, a warden at Kuku Group Ranch, reported the hyena case to the AMVU following the finding of two hyenas around Iltilal trading Centre. Mr Muterian reported alive animals that required clinical attention, but on arrival of the AMVU team, the animals were found dead.

Examination and findings Hyena Vomitus was traced on the ground around the site of the hyena death. Vomitus included remains of skin, fur and pieces of hooves.

Watery faecal matter was spotted in one spot around the area where the hyena was found. The faecal dropping was whitish to light yellow. There was marked evidence of a pre-death struggle; scratch and body movement marks were observed on the ground next to the carcass.

External examination – Hyena 1 • •

The female hyena carcass demonstrated good body condition before death.

External parasites were few with only two ticks collected from the ear. No flies or fly eggs were observed on the body surface or body crevasses.

• •

The hyena had blood spots on the head.

The mouth had signs of dried up foam around the lips. Faecal material was observed next to the body indicating production before death. The droppings were soft and not well-formed.

• The carcass was relatively fresh with minimal decomposition. The facial area was reasonably normal and had no oedema while the stomach was not bloated.

Internal examination A ventral midline incision was made to open the carcass. Internal organs were exteriorized and observed as follows, a. Blood vessels with a dark red colour observed in skeletal muscles. b. Trachea had numerous haemorrhages both internally and externally. Bloody and frothy fluid were observed along the trachea, spreading to the bronchi c. Abdominal cavity observations, i.

The peritoneum was relatively clean.

ii.

Spleen enlarged, dark coloured and mottled surface. The liver had a mottled or a cooked appearance. Gall bladder was generally enlarged. Pinpoint haemorrhages were present on the liver tissue surface.

iii.

The Stomach contained a large number of food contents. The contents were macerated but with numerous medium sized pieces of bones, as well as a lot of hair and hooves.

iv.

Intestinal lumen filled with air and yellow coloured liquid paste content.

d. Thoracic cavity: Pericardial sac content was normal. Lungs showed marked congestion and displayed extensive dark haemorrhagic areas with a blotchy external appearance.

External examination – Hyena 2 •

The second female hyena carcass demonstrated good body condition before death. The carcass was relatively fresh with minimal decomposition.

• The hyena carcass had massive dried up blood marks on the head.

• External parasites, only one tick was collected from Hyena 2. No flies or fly eggs were observed on the body surfaces or body crevasses.

Internal examination A ventral midline incision was made to open the carcass, internal organs exteriorised, and pathological lesions documented as follows, a. Large parts of internal bleeding were observed in the subcutis and external muscle layers of the neck, and abdomen. b. Trachea: numerous haemorrhages both internally and externally observed — a frothy bloody fluid found along the trachea. c. Abdominal cavity macroscopic observations, i.

Peritoneum covered with bloody fluid.

ii.

Spleen damaged, dark coloured and had mottled surface.

iii.

The Liver was engorged and had a cooked appearance. The gall bladder was enlarged.

Haemorrhages present all over the liver tissue.

iv.

The stomach contained macerated contents with numerous pieces of bone, as well as a lot of short hair and hooves.

v.

Intestinal lumen filled with air and yellow coloured liquid paste content.

d. Thoracic cavity: Lungs showed marked congestion. They displayed extensive darkish haemorrhagic areas with a blotchy external appearance.

Cause of death Hyena 1: Respiratory failure due to obstructions probably caused by forced vomiting. Lack of signs of disease from known infectious conditions could help explain the probability of poisoning.

Hyena 2: Severe internal bleeding. Substantial bleeding was as a result of injury to the spleen and head.

The lungs additionally indicated respiratory complications that could have lead to animal immobility before the head and spleen were damaged.

Recommendations 1. Tissue organs (liver and lungs) together with stomach and intestinal contents were collected and stored in 0

the fridge at 4 C to be tested and quantified for the presence of lethal organophosphates and carbamates and among other chemical toxicants available in Kenya.

2. Burning and burying were used to dispose of the carcass. The method was ideal for minimal environmental contamination. Wood was collected, a fireplace built and ignited with 2-litre petrol and tended until all body parts were burnt. The carcass was incinerated in a ditch to allow burying of the ash and unburnt remains 3. A team from Kuku Group Ranch was assigned to ensure fire burnt out entirely without the risk of accidental spread.

SWT/KWS AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT MARCH 2019

Introduction

11 Cases in March

6 Elephant Cases

2 HWC Cases

March Report by Dr. Edward Kariuki

During March 2019, the Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit (AMVU) attended to 11 animal cases. Six wildebeest males were sampled for disease investigation. Three elephants were treated for different illnesses and a similar number examined for cause of death. A Nile hippo and a cheetah were examined for cause of death around the Marula area at Isinet, Amboseli.

Acknowledgement We thank the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) for material support and Mobile Unit funding, KWS for logistical support and security. Biglife foundation, and SWT rangers for reporting and monitoring of distressed wild animals They are also thanked for assistance in aerial surveillance of the elephants after darting.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

Reason for Intervention

Outcome

02-Mar-19

Elephant

Selenkei Conservancy

Natural Causes

The mucous membranes were pale, and the bull exhibited relative dehydration

Successfully Treated

04-Mar-19

Giraffe

Amboseli Environs

Natural Causes

The giraffe was reported immobile and inactive

Died

15-Mar-19

Elephant

Amboseli National Park

Post-mortem

Body tissues substantially destroyed due to decomposition but mainly to predation

Died

18-Mar-19

Elephant

Kimana Sanctuary

Spear

The right abdominal wall had an extensive penetrating injury

Poaching Death

20-Mar-19

Elephant

Kiboko, Amboseli

Post-mortem

Body tissues substantially destroyed due to decomposition

Died

22-Mar-19

Elephant

Tsavo East NP

Natural Causes

The foreleg had an internal fracture which could have been caused by a fall or a fight

Successfully Treated

22-Mar-19

Elephant

Tsavo East NP

Natural Causes

The right hind leg had an old fracture that had healed but with a fused joint

Successfully Treated

23-Mar-19

Antelope

Amboseli National Park

Research/Survey

Research to test for the relationship between, odour and parasites infection

Task Successful

25-Mar-19

Other

Kimana Sanctuary

Post-mortem

The hippo had multiple injuries on the skin. It also had a severe cut around the neck.

Died

27-Mar-19

Giraffe

Amboseli Environs

Human- Wildlife Conflict

Trapped in a fence; a hostile community prevented the vet team from extracting it

HWC Death

31-Mar-19

Cheetah

Kimana Sanctuary

Human- Wildlife Conflict

The cheetah carcass demonstrated good body condition before death. Most likely poisoned

HWC Death

Case 1 – 2nd March 2019 Elephant

Natural Causes

Selenkei Conservancy

A male elephant was reported with emaciation to AMVU on 2nd March 2019. The bull was observed to be inactive and reluctant to move away for several days.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was captured chemically using 20mg Etorphine HCl. It went down in about 8 minutes and was placed on lateral recumbency for ease of treatment.

The elephant was very emaciated with a body score of 2 out of 5. The mucous membranes were pale, and the bull exhibited relative dehydration. However, no other problem could be recognised. Non-specific emaciation was the only finding at the time of treatment. The elephant was treated systemically with antibiotics (100ml of Amoxicillin) and Catasol 50ml intramuscularly.

Prognosis The prognosis was good.

Case 2 – 4th March 2019 Giraffe

Post-mortem

Kimana Group Ranch

Big-life Foundation Rangers reported this giraffe to the AMVU on the evening of the 3rd March 2019. The giraffe was reported immobile and inactive. A visit to the site by the AMVU team confirmed the same, but it was raining and too late in the evening to dart the animal for examination. The team returned to the animal the next day but found it had died overnight.

Examination The giraffe carcass had swollen feet at the interdigital space. However, the carcass had been scavenged and there was little remaining to indicate any disease of significant concern. The giraffe was disposed of by burning to pre-empt any unexpected outcome.

Case 3 – 15th March 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem

Narok, Masai Mara

KWS rangers at Amboseli National Park reported the dead elephant to AMVU on 15/03/2019. The rangers directed and assisted the AMVU in accessing the carcass and site for the necropsy.

Examination Gross Observations; the carcass was found lying on lateral position. Body tissues substantially destroyed due to decomposition but mainly to predation. The elephant had no tusks on her by the time AMVU visited the site. KWS rangers had removed the tusks for custody reasons. On examination, the carcass was missing most organs. The few internal organs available could not construct a logical and defined cause of death.

Cause of Death The cause could not be determined. The carcass was decomposed and extensively scavenged.

Case 4 – 18th March 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem - Spear

Kimana Sanctuary

Big Life Foundation rangers reported the dead elephant to the management of Amboseli National Park. The management conveyed the same message to AMVU for necropsy.

Examination The post-mortem examination was conducted at night to avoid predation. The carcass was found lying on laterally and extensively bloated. The right abdominal wall had an extensive penetrating injury from which bloody fluids oozed out. A lateral abdominal incision was made to open the carcass. The following was noted: • • •

The peritoneal space had plenty of bloody fluids indicating a case of severe bleeding.

Small intestines were congested and bloated. The intestines had extensive patches of haemorrhages.

Blood vessels around the intestines were severed and had bled substantially

Cause of Death Cause of death was severe blood loss resulting from damage inflicted by a suspected spear injury.

Case 5 – 20th March 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem

Kiboko, Amboseli

KWS rangers at PAMU Kiboko reported the dead elephant to AMVU on 20 March 2019. Mr Yusuf directed and assisted the AMVU in accessing the carcass for necropsy. The elephant had no tusks by the time AMVU team accessed the site.

Examination Gross Observations: The carcass was found lying in a lateral position. The body tissues were substantially destroyed due to decomposition. Biomass of mature larvae (maggots) was found on almost all parts of the body penetrating the lower abdominal wall and into all internal organs and structures. The internal organs were entirely eaten up by maggots. A dark coloured fluid and biomass of maggots flowed from the carcass and wetted the adjacent area.

Cause of Death The cause could not be determined. The carcass was decomposed and deficient of information that could lead to any specific cause of death.

Case 6 – 22nd March 2019 Elephant

Natural Causes

Emsaya, Amboseli

KWS rangers at Emsaya area reported the lame calf to SWT headquarters after which the AMVU was notified.

The calf was reported struggling to move while the mother was hostile.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Both the mother and calf were immobilized. The mother was darted first followed by the calf with only 30 metres distance in between. The calf was placed on lateral recumbency for ease of examination and treatment.

The right foreleg had an internal fracture leading to pus accumulation. The fracture could have been caused by trauma after a fall or a fight. The calf was treated using an antibiotic (BetamoxÂŽ) and Dexamethasone. The drug was given intramuscularly through the gluteal muscles.

Prognosis The prognosis was good.

Case 7 – 22nd March 2019 Elephant

Natural Causes

Tsavo East National Park

A report of a lame elephant was received from SWT rangers near Manyani Gate in Tsavo East National Park.

The elephant was reported to be dragging the hind leg and was observed at the water point.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized chemically and following darting went down in about 7 minutes. The elephant was placed on lateral recumbency for ease of examination and treatment as well as to allow for breathing.

The right hind leg had an old fracture that had healed and the leg bones fused. The fracture wound had no complication despite the lameness. The elephant was treated using 100ml Betamox and Dexamethasone.

The drug was given through intramuscular route.

Prognosis The prognosis was good.

Case 8 – 22nd – 25th March 2019 Wildebeest

Research/Survey

Amboseli National Park

Zebra and wildebeest body odours are hypothesized to regulate parasite infection. In a past study, common zebra odours were observed to contain repellant properties against tsetse flies and ticks. Wildebeest are also rare targets for tsetse flies and ticks. In order to test for the relationship between odour and parasites infection, six wildebeest were sampled for odours. Skin odours, breath, feces, blood and parasites were collected.

Immobilisation and examination The wildebeest were immobilized with a mixture of 4mg Etorphine and 60 mg Azaperone.

All samples from the wildebeest will be examined for fly and tick repellent properties. Target repellent molecules will be extracted from the samples for the study. The molecules will contain the treatment in a controlled experiment. Treated and non-treated traps will be set in infested environments to measure capture rates.

Prognosis All the sampled wildebeest had a good prognosis. All were immobilized and revived without difficulties.

Case 9 – 25th March 2019 Hippo

Post-mortem

Marula, Amboseli

KWS rangers at Loitoktok station reported the dead hippo to AMVU on 25 March 2019. The same rangers assisted the AMVU team gain access to the dead hippo.

Examination The hippo had multiple injuries on the skin. It also had a severe cut around the neck. The female hippo was old and seemed to have fought with other hippos in the territory. It had severe wounds and scorched skin. It seemed to have been out of the water for an extended period of time.

Cause of Death The injuries were probably inflicted by a fierce territorial fight. History of the presence of the dead hippo in the area married well with the theory.

Case 10 – 27th March 2019 Giraffe

Snared

Oldonyo Lenkai, Amboseli

Maina, a former KWS PAMU ranger reported the case and gave the contacts of the people on the ground. A visit to the site by the AMVU team confirmed the snared giraffe.

Examination and treatment The giraffe died due to exhaustion and myopathy. The giraffe had struggled over night and the better part of the day before the team arrived. The giraffe could not be freed due to hostile community members who wanted compensation for the damaged fence.

The community interfered with the successful removal of the giraffe from the snare. Given kind reception and cooperation, the giraffe could have survived by cutting the fence wires to release the animal. However, the suggestion was received with exceptional hostility from the community. Attempts to try removal by rewinding the wires to save the fence was unsuccessful and the giraffe died before the exercise was completed.

Case 11 – 31st March 2019 Cheetah

Human-Wildlife Conflict; Poison

Isineti Village, Kimana

Big Life Foundation rangers reported a dead cheetah at Isineti area. No livestock predation or conflict cases regarding the cheetah had been reported by the time of the necropsy.

Examination The male cheetah had a distended stomach. Bloody fluids were flowing from the mouth and nostrils. Blackish loose faecal material was spotted around the anal area. No evidence of a pre-death struggle was observed.

No scratching or body movement marks were observed on the ground next to the dead carcass.

The cheetah carcass demonstrated good body condition before death. The carcass was relatively fresh with minimal decomposition. The stomach was slightly bloated.

Ticks and flies were the only external parasites found on the cheetah. The quantity found was normal for such a wild animal and at such stage of decomposition.

A ventral midline incision was made to open the carcass and the following was noted; • All blood vessels observed were dark red.

•

Plenty of blood and frothy fluid flowed out after cutting into the trachea. The fluid and foam like substance were observed along the trachea up to and including the larger bronchi.

•

The peritoneum was relatively clean.

•

Spleen was dark coloured with a mottled surface but shrunken in size. Two white encapsulated cysts were visible on the surface but likely unrelated to the cause of death.

•

The liver had a cooked appearance, but the gall bladder was normal in size. Pinpoint haemorrhages were observed on a single lobe of the liver tissue.

•

The Stomach was extensively extended with a huge amount of food content. The contents composed of numerous medium sized pieces of meat. All body organs of an animal could be observed including but not limited to, eyes, liver, kidney, heart and skin, but no bones.

•

Small intestines were generally congested and flaccid, on opening they had patches of ecchymotic haemorrhages.

•

Intestinal lumen filled with air and blackish liquid paste content.

•

Thoracic cavity: Lungs were dark red and showed marked and generalized congestion. Grossly edematous with foam like substance in the trachea. Heart had no blood in the right ventricle, auricles were expanded and visible but had no blood.

Cause of Death Respiratory failure due to obstructions most likely caused by the bloody fluid in the trachea. Lack of signs of disease from known infectious conditions could help explain the likelihood of retribution poisoning.

Recommendations

•

Laboratory testing: liver, intestines, lungs and stomach contents together with intestinal content collected and stored in the fridge at 40 C to be tested and quantified for the presence of lethal organophosphates and carbamates among other chemical toxicants available in Kenya.

•

The carcass was disposed of by burning to avoid environmental contamination. A team from Big life foundation was assigned to ensure full combustion without the risk of accidental spread.

SWT/KWS MT KENYA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OVERVIEW January – March 2019

28 Cases

8 Poaching Cases

6 Elephant Cases

The Mt Kenya Mobile Vet Unit attended to 28 cases, involving 6 elephants, 5 rhino, 1 greater kudu, 1 waterbuck, 4 Mountain Bongos, 8 giraffes and 1 security horse of the Aberdares National Park. The Unit also attended to 1 Grevy Zebra with a snare and relocated 3 zebras in a case of human-wildlife conflict. Of the 28 cases, 8 were directly related to poaching; 1 bullet wound, 5 snares, 1 spear and 1 post-mortem where direct cause was not established but it was deemed to be a poaching related death. There were 2 human-wildlife conflict cases, as well as 14 cases due to natural causes, 1 rescue, and 3 technical cases.

Cases Attended to by Mt Kenya SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019 15 14 13 12 11

Other

10 9

Rhino

8

Giraffe

7

Plains Game

6

Elephant

5 4 3 2 1 0 Bullet Wound Human Wildlife Conflict

Spear

Snared

Poaching Postmortem

Natural Causes

Rescue

Technical Cases

Outcomes of Cases Attended to by Mt Kenya SWT/KWS Vet Unit 1st January - 31st March 2019

Prognosis Poor 14% Poaching Death 7% Successful Cases 61% Died 18%

KWS/SWT Mt Kenya Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations January - March 2019

SWT/KWS MT KENYA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JANUARY 2019

Introduction

14 Cases in January

4 Poaching Cases

50% Success

January Report by Domnic Mijele The Mt Kenya Veterinary Unit treated 14 cases this month which included an injured female white rhino, a wounded elephant at Ngorare Wildlife Conservancy, de-snaring of two giraffes, and the de-snaring of a female waterbuck. The Unit also translocated 3 grevy zebras involved in human-wildlife conflict from Naibor Ranch to Sera Wildlife Conservancy. The Unit also conducted a post-mortem examination of an elephant shot during human-wildlife conflict at Lewa, and post-mortem examinations of a white and black rhino at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy among other cases as highlighted in the report below.

Acknowledgement We acknowledge and appreciate the support from the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) team in Laikipia and at the veterinary department team in the Mountain Conservation area, community scouts and other partners for supporting the Mt. Kenya Veterinary Unit to respond and save the lives of many animals that required urgent veterinary attention.

Case Details Date

Species

06-Jan-19

Elephant

07-Jan-19

Rhino White

14-Jan-19

Antelope

14-Jan-19

Antelope

15-Jan-19

Waterbuck

19-Jan-19

Giraffe

20-Jan-19

Elephant

22-Jan-19

Elephant

22-Jan-19

Giraffe

26-Jan-19

Zebra

27-Jan-19

Rhino White

29-Jan-19

Rhino Black

30-Jan-19

Rhino White

31-Jan-19

Security Horse

Area Found Ngorare, Laikipia Lewa Conservancy Mt Kenya Game Ranch Mt Kenya Game Ranch Mt Kenya National Park Ole Nashuu, Laikipia Lewa Conservancy Enasoit, Laikipia Laikipia Ranches

Reason for Intervention Spear Natural Causes Technical Cases Natural Causes Snared Snared Bullet Wound HWC Technical Cases

Naibor, Lakipia

HWC

Lewa Conservancy Lewa Conservancy Meru National Park Abedares National Park

Natural Causes Natural Causes Natural Causes Technical Cases

It had one deep penetrating wound suspected to be a spear wound It was suspected to have a dislocation or a closed fracture at the left tarsal joint.

Immobilization, capture, samples collection and relocation of a bongo A juvenile mountain bongo had a large abscess on the right side of the thigh An adult female waterbuck was reported to have along rope snare on the right front leg Reticulated giraffe had a loose hanging wire snare around the right hind leg Elephant carcass had two bullet wounds through the left shoulder; went through the lungs/heart Elephant had a deep penetrating wound the right hind leg suspected to be a bullet wound Rose up from a rescue and escaped with the rope still around the head Capture and relocation of 3 Grevy’s zebras (comprising of a mother, foal and adult male) Suffering from hind leg dislocation and decubital wounds. It failed to recover This was a semi-blind black rhino that fell off a cliff and died instantly Suspected to have been hit and injured by another adult male rhino over mating rights A security horse which had developed a swelling and arthritis of the fetlock joint

Outcome Prognosis Poor Prognosis Poor Task Successful Successfully Treated Successfully Treated Successfully Treated Poaching Death Successfully Treated Task Successful Task Successful Died Died Died Prognosis Poor

KWS/SWT Mt Kenya Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations January 2019

Case 1 – 6th January 2019 Elephant

Spear

Ngorare Wildlife Conservancy

The male elephant was spotted on his own near a river within the Ngorare Wildlife Conservancy. He was very weak and in a lot of pain, and we could see some exudates on the affected thigh that required urgent veterinary attention.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The injured elephant was found in a thick area of bushes, but we were able to track and dart it from a vehicle. It was adequately immobilized after about 6 minutes and went down on lateral recumbency.

The elephant had one deep penetrating wound on the right upper thigh suspected to be a spear wound; it had a lot of pus and necrotic debris. The wound was properly cleaned with water, lots of pus and exudates were squeezed out then the wound was probed using sterile gauze swabs attached to long forceps to remove all the necrotic debris and ensure no foreign material was left inside.

The wound was then debrided using 10% Hydrogen Peroxide and cleaned and flushed with tincture of iodine. It was further treated using Opticlox ointment, and then green clay was used to plug the wound followed by Oxytetracycline spray. Other treatments included an intramuscular injection of Penicillin to manage the heavy infection around the wound and anti-inflammatories/pain relief.

Prognosis Unfortunately, the prognosis was not good because the wound was quite deep and heavily infected which might lead to septicaemia. The animal is still being monitored and the rangers will report to the vet unit if further treatment is necessary.

Case 2 – 7th January 2019 White Rhino

Natural Causes

Lewa Conservancy

The injured female white rhino was reported by the security manager of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. She was quite weak, limping and unable to put weight on the affected leg.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The injured rhino was in the company of its 2-year-old calf and a helicopter was used to drive the calf away so that the mother could be treated. The rhino was then darted from a vehicle and the induction time was about 5 minutes. To improve the plane of anesthesia and respiration 10 mg of Butorphanol plus 50mg of Doxapram Hcl was administered through the ear vein soon after the rhino was anaesthetised.

On examination, the rhino had decubital wounds on the bonny prominences caused by prolonged period of lying down. The affected leg was weak and atrophied, swollen and inflamed.

The superficial wounds were cleaned with water, cauterized with diluted Hydrogen Peroxide, disinfected with Tincture of Iodine, and then sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray.

The rhino was then treated using BetamoxÂŽ and Dexamethasone anti-inflammatory drugs which were administered intramuscularly to enhance the wound healing process. Multivitamin injection was also administered intramuscularly.

Prognosis Recovery from anaesthesia was smooth and the rhino rose up within 2 minutes. Prognosis was poor due to either the dislocation or fracture of the tarsal joint that might take time to heal because of the old age of the rhino.

Case 3 – 14th January 2019 Mountain Bongo

Technical Case

Mt Kenya Game Ranch

The management of Mt Kenya Game Ranch requested the Veterinary Unit’s assistance in the chemical immobilization, capture, samples collection and relocation of one of the male bongos that had escaped from its enclosure.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The male bongo was approached and darted on foot. The drug took effect after about 10 minutes and the bongo went down. The bongo was put on a stretcher and carried before being loaded into the back of a pick-up van which was padded with hay and driven to another enclosure about 2km away. The anaesthesia was monitored throughout journey and the team kept on pouring water on the bongo to ensure he was in a stable condition during the operation.

Soon after off-loading the bongo, blood samples were taken from the jugular vein, tissue and tick samples were collected and blood smears were also prepared to be preserved in the laboratory for further analysis.

Prognosis The relocated bongo was then revived from anaesthesia and rose up after 2 minutes.

Case 4 – 14th January 2019 Mountain Bongo

Natural Causes

Mt Kenya Game Ranch

A juvenile mountain bongo had a large abscess on the right side of the thigh that had accumulated a lot of pus and was very painful.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The young bongo was physically restrained by hand, the abscess region was shaved clean using a scalpel blade and disinfected using 70% Ethanol and surgical spirit. The abscess was then cut and all the exudates were pressed out completely. The wound was cleaned properly using forceps attached to gauze swabs, 10% Hydrogen Peroxide and Tincture of Iodine. The wound was then further treated using Opticlox® ointment and Oxytetracycline spray and left open to continue draining the pus after treatment. The animal was further treated using Betamox® and Dexamethasone administered intramuscularly.

The cause of the abscess is not yet ascertained but most likely due to environmental contamination within the enclosures.

Prognosis Prognosis was quite good after lancing and draining of the abscess and treatment of the wound, the juvenile male is now recovering well.

Case 5 – 15th January 2019 Waterbuck

Snared

Mt Kenya National Park

An adult female waterbuck was reported to have along rope snare on the right front leg near Naru Moru gate in Mt. Kenya National Park.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The snared waterbuck was darted from a vehicle and was fully immobilized after about 6 minutes. The manila rope was tight around the coronary band just above the hoof and the rope was quickly extracted from the tissue using long forceps and cut off using a surgical blade. There was no wound so the affected part was just sprayed using Oxytetracycline spray.

Prognosis The waterbuck rose up 2 minutes after the anaesthetic was reversed. Prognosis was good after the snare was removed.

Case 6 – 19th January 2019 Giraffe

Snared

Ole Nashuu Wildlife Conservancy

A sub-adult male reticulated giraffe was reported to have a loose hanging wire snare around the right hind leg. It had stayed with the wire for some time and required veterinary intervention. The wire was disturbing the animal and it could be seen stepping on it as it walked.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The injured giraffe was found browsing in a family of other giraffes in a thick area of bushes from where it was chased and darted from a vehicle. It took about 7 minutes for the immobilization drug to take effect and the giraffe was roped down by the veterinary team assisted by the team at the Ole Nashuu Conservancy. The wire was immediately cut off using a wire cutter; it had not caused any wound on the affected leg.

Prognosis The giraffe was revived from anaesthesia and he got and joined the other giraffes. Prognosis was good after removal of the snare.

Case 7 – 20th January 2019 Elephant

Bullet Wound

Lewa Conservancy

An elephant carcass was sighted within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the carcass was about 2 days old and had started decomposing; parts of it had been scavenged.

Post-mortem examination The elephant carcass had both the tusks intact and part of the trunk had been scavenged. It had two bullet wounds through the left shoulder that went through the lungs and heart muscles. It had lots of internal hemorrhages in the thoracic cavity. All other organs were intact. The gun shot could have been due to human-wildlife conflict or attempted poaching.

The elephant was killed by a gun shot through the thoracic cavity, lungs and heart. It then succumbed to severe internal hemorrhage leading to hypovolemic shock, anemia and death.

Case 8 – 22nd January 2019 Elephant

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Il Polei, Lakipia

This was a case of a sub-adult male elephant, about 10 years old, sighted by community scouts from Ilpolei area in Laikipia County; it had a deep penetrating wound on the right hind leg. The elephant was most likely left by the herd since it could not keep pace with the other elephants.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The injured elephant was found in a dense thicket from where it was tracked for several hours by a vehicle and on foot before it was eventually darted in the thigh muscle. It was adequately immobilized after about 10 minutes.

The elephant had a deep penetrating wound on the caudal side of the right hind leg. The leg was heavily swollen at the tarsal joint and the wound was quite infected. It was suspected to be a bullet wound most likely encountered during human-wildlife conflict in the area.

The wound was properly cleaned with clean water then probed using sterile gauze swabs attached to long forceps to remove all the necrotic debris and to ensure no foreign material was left inside.

Thereafter the wound was debrided and flushed with diluted 10% Hydrogen Peroxide, then cleaned and flushed with Tincture of Iodine. It was further treated using Opticlox® ointment applied topically and green clay applied to plug the wound followed by Oxytetracycline spray. Other treatments were intramuscular injection of Procaine Penicillin (Norocillin®) and Flunixine Meglumine to support the wound healing process.

Prognosis After treatment, the elephant was revived from anaesthesia. It rose up and went for water from the nearby river. Prognosis was good after the wound was treated; quick recovery was expected since the bones were not affected and the elephant is quite young.

Case 9 – 22nd January 2019 Giraffe

Technical Case

Laikipia Ranches

An adult male reticulated giraffe was reported to have a long rope hanging around its head. The giraffe was said to have had a fierce fight with another bull giraffe earlier in the day. When the rangers tried to pull it up after the fight, it rose up and escaped with the rope still around the head.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The giraffe was darted from a vehicle. It took about 12 minutes for the immobilization drug to take effect and the giraffe was roped down by the veterinary team assisted by the team at the Conservancy.

The loose rope was quickly untied and removed from the head. It had not caused any injury to the giraffe therefore it was just removed and the animal set free.

Prognosis The giraffe was then revived from anaesthesia, it rose up and walked off into the thicket. Prognosis is good as no injuries were sustained.

Case 10 – 26th January 2019 Zebra

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Naibor, Laikipia

The Vet Unit was requested to assist in the capture and relocation of 3 grevy zebras (comprising of a mother, foal and adult male) from Naibor Ranch in Laikipia along the Rumuruti – Maralal Road. These grevy zebras were in a small compound and were involved in human-wildlife conflict as one had bitten and injured a young child.

Immobilization and relocation

All the 3 grevy zebras were successfully darted from a vehicle. After darting the animals were placed on a specially designed animal stretcher and successively loaded onto the lorry truck.

Inside the truck, tissue, ticks and blood samples were collected then the zebras were revived from anaesthesia and were driven to Sera Wildlife Conservancy, a Conservancy about 300 kilometres away.

Case 11 – 27th January 2019 Southern White Rhino

Natural Causes

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

This was the same female white rhino that was treated two weeks ago suffering from hind leg dislocation and decubital wounds. It failed to recover despite several repeat treatments, eventually it was unable to stand or walk and a decision was made to euthanize it and recover the horns to alleviate unnecessary pain and suffering, since it had no chance of recovery from the injuries.

Post-mortem examination Post-mortem examination revealed a complete compound fracture of the tarso-metatarsal joint of the right hind leg. The fracture wound had become heavily necrotic and infected oozing a lot of pus. The bones were shuttered and could not rejoin again. The horns were recovered and taken to safe custody at Kenya Wildlife Service HQ.

th

Case 12 – 29 January 2019 Black Rhino

Natural Causes

Lewa Conservancy

This was a semi-blind female black rhino that fell off a cliff and died instantly within Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Lewa management called in the veterinary unit to conduct a post-mortem.

Post-mortem examination The carcass was about 5 days old, full of maggots and partly scavenged. Both the horns were intact and recovered by Kenya Wildlife Service for safe custody. It had fallen of a steep cliff and broken the cervical vertebral bones and died instantly. The immediate cause of death was an injury to the spinal cord after breaking the cervical vertebrae.

Case 13 – 30th January 2019 Black Rhino

Natural Causes

Lewa Conservancy

A carcass of a sub-adult male southern white rhino was found on 30/01/2019 by security rangers while on inter-block patrols. It had both horns intact and it was suspected to have been hit and injured by another adult male rhino over mating rights; the last time it was sighted was in a company of a mating group.

Post-mortem examination The carcass was completely decomposed and only the skull, ribs, vertebral bones, pelvic bones, scapular, hooves, clavicle bones and other bones structures were found. The carcass was estimated to be about 2 months old as this rhino was last sighted in mid-November 2018. It had decomposed faster due to high temperatures and many scavengers which quickly consumed all the soft muscles, skin and tissues. All the bones were intact with no sign of fracture or breakage. The carcass was found in a very thick forest under a canopy along the riverine where aerial or ground sighting was not easy. The cause of death was suspected to be due to trauma caused by other male rhinos over mating rights.

Case 14 – 31st January 2019 Security Horse

Technical Case

Aberdare National Park

The unit also attended to one of the security horses belonging to the Aberdares National Park which had developed a swelling and arthritis of the fetlock joint. This could have been caused by inadequate exercise and muscle subluxation at the joint. The joint was aspirated using 18gauge needle and a syringe but had no pus.

It was treated using long-acting antibiotics Amoxicillin (BetamoxÂŽ), Flunixine Meglumine which were administered intramuscularly. The treatment continued every 3 days for a week.

Prognosis The prognosis is not very good due to arthritis that is advancing daily.

Report by Dr. Domnic Mijele

SWT/KWS MT KENYA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT FEBRUARY/ 2019

Introduction

6 Cases in February

3 Poaching Cases

83% Success

February Report by Dr. Domnic Mijele

The Mt Kenya Wildlife Veterinary Unit attended and treated several wildlife cases that required urgent veterinary intervention in the Laikipia ecosystem, Mt. Kenya region and Garissa area during the month of February. The veterinary interventions included the de-snaring of 3 reticulated giraffes, de-snaring of an adult female grevy zebra, treatment of an adult female greater kudu with a fractured leg and the postmortem examination of a male elephant bull in Lower Imenti forest, Meru.

Acknowledgement We acknowledge and appreciate the support of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT), KWS and other partners for coordination and support of the Mt. Kenya Veterinary Unit. This has made it possible for the unit to respond and save many wildlife cases that required urgent veterinary attention.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

22-Feb-19

Giraffe

Garissa Wildlife Sanctuary

Snared

A tight wire snare around the distal end of the right hind leg

Successfully Treated

22-Feb-19

Giraffe

Garissa Wildlife Sanctuary

Natural Causes

A severe wound on the ventral part of the abdomen possibly due to a hyena attack

Successfully Treated

22-Feb-19

Giraffe

Garissa Wildlife Sanctuary

Natural Causes

Wound in the inter-digital space between the two hooves of the left front leg.

Successfully Treated

23-Feb-19

Elephant

Imenti Forest, Meru

Poaching Postmortem

The carcass was about 6 days old and the cause of death was suspected to be poaching

Poaching Death

Kudu

Loisaba Ranch, Laikipia

Natural Causes

Greater Kudu suspected to have fallen from a high cliff while being chased by predators

Successfully Treated

Zebra

Mpala Ranch, Laikipia

Snared

Grevy zebra with a tight wire snare around the right hind leg cutting through the leg.

Successfully Treated

26-Feb-19

28-Feb-19

Reason for Intervention

Outcome

SWT/KWS Mt Kenya Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations February 2019

Case 1 – 22nd February 2019 Giraffe

Snared

Garissa Wildlife Conservancy

An adult male giraffe was reported to have a tight wire snare around the distal end of the right hind leg. The animal was limping, the leg was swollen and the animal was in a lot of pain.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The snared giraffe was found with other giraffes and was quickly darted from a vehicle. It took about 7 minutes for the immobilization drug to take effect, after which the giraffe was roped safely to the ground.

The wire snare had cut through the muscles of the foot close to the tarsal joint creating a septic wound around the foot.

The wire was carefully retrieved from the tissue using a wire cutter and then removed by hand. The resulting wound was then cauterized and debrided with Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine, then Opticlox Ointment and oxytetracycline spray was applied. Procaine penicillin and Dexamethasone anti-inflammatory drug were administered intramuscularly to enhance the wound healing process.

Prognosis Prognosis was good after the snare was removed and the wound well treated.

Case 2 – 22nd February 2019 Giraffe

Natural Causes

Garissa Wildlife Conservancy

An adult male reticulated giraffe was reported to have a severe extensive wound on the ventral part of the abdomen which was suspected to be as a result of a hyena attack. The wound was large, had skin hanging off and was becoming septic, hence required urgent attention and treatment to avoid developing septicemia.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The injured giraffe was found in a herd of other giraffes in a relatively thick area. The team was able to track it with a vehicle and it was successfully darted from the vehicle using Etorphine combined with Azaperone.

The wound was already septic and loose skin was hanging from it. The loose skin was trimmed off and the wound cauterized and debrided using 10% Hydrogen peroxide and Iodine. Further treatments included application of Opticlox ointment, Oxytetracycline spray and green clay which will enhance the healing process. Amoxycillin antibiotic was administered, as well as Flunixine meglumine to control the pain and inflammation.

Prognosis The anaesthesia was reversed using 24mgs of Diprenorphine Hcl administered through the jugular vein. The giraffe rose up after 1 minute and ran away feeling relieved. Prognosis was quite good after wound treatment; quick recovery was expected since it was only a soft tissue jury.

Case 3 – 22nd February 2019 Giraffe

Natural Causes

Garissa Wildlife Conservancy

A juvenile male giraffe was reported to be limping with an injury to the left front leg. The affected leg was swollen, and the animal could not put weight on it. It preferred staying alone and moved slowly due to the pain.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The giraffe was darted from a vehicle and after the drugs took effect, the giraffe was assisted to fall by being roped down by the Veterinary Team, assisted by the team on the ground. The giraffe had a cut in the interdigital space between the two hooves of the left front leg. The wound was infected with lots of exudates and necrotic tissue. The cause of the injury was suspected to be a sharp object, probably a sharp stone or tree stump.

The wound was cleaned with a lot of water then cauterized and debrided using 10% Hydrogen peroxide and Iodine, then Oxytetracycline spray was applied. Procaine penicillin and Dexamethasone anti-inflammatory drugs were administered intramuscularly to enhance the wound healing process.

Prognosis After treatment, the giraffe was revived from anaesthesia and rose up after 2 minutes feeling much relieved.

Prognosis was good after treatment of the wound.

Case 4 – 23rd February 2019 Elephant

Reason Intervention

Imenti Forest, Meru

This was a case of an adult male elephant that was found dead in Salient area of Lower Imenti forest. The carcass was about 6 days old and the cause of death was suspected to be poaching due to the absence of tusks. The case was reported by the management of Meru National Park who informed the veterinary team to conduct a post-mortem examination to ascertain the cause of death.

General Observation • • • •

The carcass was found on sternal recumbency and had already decomposed There were no tusks Adult maggots had already set in the carcass All the organs were decomposed and scavenged and could not reveal anything significant

Prognosis The elephant had been extensively predated by scavengers and it had no tusks so poaching was suspected before the veterinary team arrived. The elephant was killed by gun shots or acute poisoning due to poaching.

Case 5 – 26th February 2019 Greater Kudu

Natural Causes

Loisaba Conservancy, Laikipia

An adult female greater kudu was seen in great pain, limping, unable to put weight on the affected leg. It was unknown what caused the injury, but it was suspected to have fallen from a cliff while being chased by predators

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The injured kudu was darted using 5mgs of Etorphine Hcl combined with 50mgs of Azaperone. It didn’t move much and became immobilized and recumbent after about 5 minutes.

On palpation and physical examination, it was found to have a mid-shaft complete closed fracture of the metatarsal bones of the left hind leg. The animal was only treated with pain-killers, anti-inflammatory drugs and multivitamins administered intramuscularly.

Two days later, it was immobilized again and the fractured leg fixed using plaster of paris.

Prognosis Prognosis was good after anti-inflammatory and antibiotics injections and fixing the fracture with plaster.

Case 6 – 28th February 2019 Grevy Zebra

Snared

Mpala Ranch, Laikipia

Mpala Security Rangers on patrol saw this adult female grevy zebra with a tight wire snare around the right hind leg cutting through the leg. The snare was quite tight and the leg was heavily swollen and very painful.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The affected zebra was found in thick vegetation that made it difficult to be dart her from the vehicle. After several attempts, the zebra was finally darted from foot using a Dan-inject remote delivery system.

The grevy had a very tight wire snare cutting deep into the muscles of the distal part of the right hind leg.

The wire was quickly cut off with a wire cutter. The snare wound was cleaned with water, debrided with dilute Hydrogen peroxide, cleaned with tincture of Iodine then Opticlox ointment applied. Other treatments included Amoxicillin Trihydrate and Dexamethasone to control bacterial infection and reduce inflammation.

Prognosis Prognosis was good after the snare was removed since the bones were intact and it was only a soft tissue injury.

SWT/KWS MT KENYA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT MARCH 2019

Introduction

7 Cases in March

2 Elephant Cases

2 Giraffe Cases

March Report by Dr. Domnic Mijele

The Mt Kenya Wildlife Veterinary Unit responded to several wildlife cases that required urgent veterinary intervention in the Laikipia ecosystem, Mt. Kenya region and Meru during the month of March 2019. Some of the veterinary interventions included de-snaring of a female reticulated giraffe at Enasoit Conservancy, treatment of two mountain bongos with an abscess and vulvo-vaginitis in Mt. Kenya game ranch and the rescue of an elephant bull stuck at Elkarama Wildlife Conservancy among other cases as highlighted in the report below; Acknowledgement We acknowledge and appreciate the support from our partner Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT), KWS and other partners for supporting wildlife veterinary services. This has made it possible for the veterinary team to respond and save many wildlife cases that required urgent veterinary attention.

Case Details Date

Species

Area Found

Reason for Intervention

Outcome

18-Mar-19

Elephant

Garissa Wildlife Sanctuary

Rescue

Found stuck in a large dam, it had been stuck for about 2 hours

Task Successful

18-Mar-19

Garissa Wildlife Antelope Sanctuary

Natural Causes

A female bongo was reported to have discharges from the vulva and general body weakness

Successfully Treated

29-Mar-19

Elephant

Garissa Wildlife Sanctuary

Natural Causes

Had an open complete compound fracture of the left femur, suspected to have been caused when it fell off the cliff.

Died

21-Mar-19

Giraffe

Loisaba Ranch, Laikipia

Snared

An adult female giraffe was sighted to have a tight wire snare around the distal end of the left hind leg

Successfully Treated

26-Mar-19

Giraffe

Mpala Ranch, Laikipia

Natural Causes

A wound on the right coronary band and fracture of the right front leg

Died

27-Mar-19

Antelope

Imenti Forest, Meru

Natural Causes

An adult male mountain bongo had a large abscess on the left thigh

Successfully Treated

Natural Causes

Suspected to either have an internal injury caused by a blunt object or an infectious condition most likely trypanosomiasis

Prognosis Poor

30-Mar-19

Rhino White

Meru National Park

SWT/KWS Mt Kenya Mobile Vet Unit Treatment Locations March 2019

Case 1 – 18th March 2019 Elephant

Rescue

Elkarama Wildlife Conservancy

This was a case of an adult male elephant found stuck in a large dam within Elkarama Wildlife Conservancy, it had been stuck for about 2 hours by the time it was sighted by the conservancy team. The vet team responded quite fast and rescued it from the dam.

Rescue Through a combined effort of Elkarama Conservancy, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and KWS the elephant was pulled out of water gently using strong straps anchored onto the tusks and pulled by a tractor.

The elephant lifted up its head, straightened its front legs and lifted itself up and stood. The tractor then pulled the strap off the tusk and the elephant slowly walked out of the dam, and though his legs seemed to be numb, he is expected to make a full recovery.

Case 2 – 18th March 2019 Bongo

Natural Causes

Mt. Kenya Game Ranch

One of the pregnant female bongo antelopes was reported to have mucopurulent discharges from the vulva and general body weakness. There was acute inflammation of the vulva and vagina also known as ‘vaginitis’ that required veterinary attention to treat the animal and collect samples for further laboratory investigations.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The bongo was darted and became immobilized and recumbent after about 5 minutes. Before treatment, blood samples were collected from the jugular vein and ticks were collected and preserved to establish the cause of infection. Samples from the discharge were also collected and preserved for culture and bacteriology tests. Using long-sleeved gloves, the vulva was flushed and cleaned using tincture of Iodine and all the pus discharges removed completely. The mucous membranes were highly inflamed and lacerated caused by irritation and constant straining. The animal was treated with long-acting Penicillin, multivitamins and Cloxacillin ointment.

Prognosis Prognosis was good after treatment and she has since recovered from the infection.

Case 3 – 21st March 2019 Giraffe

Snared

Enasoit Conservancy

An adult female giraffe was sighted to have a tight wire snare around the distal end of the left hind leg. The wire was long and the animal kept stepping on it and staggering, almost falling down. The veterinary team responded quickly to save the giraffe from the pain and disturbance caused by the snare.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The snared giraffe was found alone and was darted from a vehicle using 16mgs of Etorphine Hcl combined with 50mgs of Azaperone delivered with a Dan-inject remote delivery system. It took about 10 minutes for the immobilization drug to take effect and the giraffe was assisted to the ground with ropes by the veterinary team and the team from Enasoit Conservancy.

The wire snare had not caused any wound and was carefully cut off using a wire cutter and removed by hand.

Prognosis After removal of the snare the giraffe was revived from anaesthesia. The giraffe rose up after one-minute feeling much relieved. Prognosis was quite good after the snare was removed.

Case 4 – 26th March 2019 Giraffe

Snared

Elkarama Wildlife Conservancy

An adult male giraffe was reported to be limping and unable to walk in Elkarama Wildlife Conservancy. The animal was quite weak and required immediate veterinary intervention.

General Observation The injured giraffe was found standing alone in a thick bushy area. It was darted from a vehicle using 14mgs of Etorphine Hcl delivered by Dan-inject remote delivery system. It took about 6 minutes for the immobilization drug to take effect and the giraffe went down on lateral recumbency.

Examination and Euthanasia The giraffe had a cut wound on the right coronary band of the right front leg and a mid-shaft fracture of the two metacarpal bones of the right front leg. The fracture had worsened due to the heavy weight of the giraffe and the affected leg could not support the giraffe any more. The giraffe was in deep pain and had no chance of recovery from the fracture, it was then euthanized using Pentobarbitone Hcl administered through the jugular vein. Tissue and blood samples were collected for research..

Case 5 – 27th March 2019 Bongo

Natural Causes

Mt. Kenya Game Ranch

An adult male mountain bongo had a large abscess on the left thigh that required lancing and treatment.

The cause of the abscess was not known but is likely due to environmental contamination within the enclosures, the animal was in pain and quite restless that required urgent veterinary intervention.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The bongo was isolated in an enclosure, where it was darted and became immobilized and recumbent after about 7 minutes. The abscess was shaved clean using a scalpel blade and disinfected with Ethanol and surgical spirit. It was then cut open using a scalpel blade and pressed so all the whitish exudates could be removed and then cleaned properly with 10% Hydrogen peroxide, tincture of Iodine, Opticlox ointment and Oxytetracycline spray. The animal was also treated using long-acting Procaine Penicillin and Dexamethasone.

Ivermectin was administered subcutaneously and Frontline sprayed on the affected alopecic areas of the skin Prognosis Prognosis was good after treatment and she has since recovered from the infection.

Case 6 – 29th March 2019 Elephant

Post-mortem

Ol maisor Wildlife Conservancy

An adult bull elephant was found lying on lateral recumbency within the Ol maisor Wildlife Conservancy, it was unable to rise up and was in deep pain. On closer observation, it had a complete fracture of left femur bone. After establishing that it had no chances of recovery a decision was made to euthanize it and postmortem examination conducted.

Post-mortem The elephant had an open complete compound fracture of the left femur, suspected to have been caused when it fell off the cliff. Both the tusks were intact and were recovered and taken to KWS custody.

No pictures available for this case.

Case 7 – 30th March 2019 White Rhino

Natural Causes

Meru National Park

This rhino was observed to be very inactive, not feeding and not taking water. It was in a company of another sub-adult female near Mururi swamp.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment The team attempted to dart the rhino on foot, but the dart did not discharge, and the animal disappeared into the thickets. The team tried to trace it on foot on but had to call for helicopter support. The helicopter came the next day and the rhino was successfully darted from the air and pushed to an open area for treatment. The rhino had a body condition of 3, a high temperature of 39oc but no physical injury. The mucous membranes and eye conjunctiva were pale. The rhino was suspected to either have an internal injury caused by a blunt object or an infectious condition; most likely trypanosomiasis due to high tsetse fly density. Blood and tick samples were collected for further laboratory diagnosis. The rhino was then treated with a longacting broad-spectrum antibiotic and multivitamin injection and pre-treated for trypanosomiasis.

Prognosis Prognosis was not good because the rhino had fever, anorexia and dehydration