DSWT/KWS Quarterly Mobile Veterinary Unit Report April to June 2016

MOBILE VET UNITS TSAVO – MARA – MERU AMBOSELI REPORT APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2016

MOBILE VETERINARY UNITS OVERVIEW APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2016 During the April to June 2016, 3-month reporting period, the DSWT in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service and their four dedicated KWS field veterinary officers, attended to 75 wildlife cases.

Of the 75 cases attended 41 cases included elephants; 8 with arrow wounds, 2 with bullet wounds, 3 with snare injuries and 9 cases which were caused by spear wounds. There were also 3 elephant rescues, 3 human-wildlife conflict cases and 1 elephant collaring operation. Other elephant cases included injuries related to natural causes and a postmortem of natural caused death.

During this period 4 Rhino cases were also attended to including 2 with bullet wounds, one of which was sadly a pregnant female found dead on arrival with its horns missing; the other was successfully treated and a follow-up operation revealed he had much improved. The vet teams also attended to 12 Lion cases; 5 of the lion cases were due to natural causes, whilst there were 3 collaring’s, 1 human- wildlife conflict case, 2 relocations and 1 case where a lion cub was suspected to be ill but was actually healthy on assessment by the team.

A number of other species including Cheetah, Leopard, Giraffe, Wild Dog, Crocodiles, an Aardvark and a variety of plains game were also treated by the four veterinary units throughout this period. 62% of cases during this reporting period were successfully treated with 34% of cases caused by poaching activities.

The Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit attended to 23 cases including 14 elephants, 9 of which were injured as a direct result of poaching. Other animals attended to included a lion, buffalo and cheetah case, a leopard cub which was rescued, a wild dog hit by a car that sadly died, and a gazelle with serious mange. 2 lions were also collared in an attempt to reduce HWC following an increase in livestock predation that lead to a protest by the community.

The Mara Mobile Vet Unit attended to 19 cases; 8 were elephants including 4 poaching victims, 2 HWC cases, 1 natural causes and 1 postmortem. They also relocated 1 leopard, attended to 3 giraffes, 6 lion cases (4 of which were HWC) and one rhino case with bullet wounds which was successfully treated.

The Meru Mobile Vet Unit attended to 16 cases including 5 elephants of which 1 was snared, 1 had a bullet wound, 2 were due to natural causes and 1 rescue. Other animals attended to included giraffes, zebra, lion, a tracker dog and both black and white rhinos.

The Amboseli Mobile Vet Unit attended to 18 cases, 14 of which were elephants, including 2 rescues, 7 injuries directly related to poaching and 4 due to natural causes, plus 1 collaring. Other animals attended to include a lion and crocodile relocation due to HWC, a zebra treatment and an aardvark hit by a car.

There were 8 human-wildlife conflict (HWC) cases in total during this period (outside of relocations which also are necessary to relieve human-wildlife conflict), which included an elephant hit by a train and a wild dog and an aardvark hit by a vehicle. Another case included a lioness which strayed into a cattle boma and had to be sedated and removed before it was killed by the owners, whilst a leopard was euthanized after reportedly killing a standard gauge railway worker.

One giraffe was also killed after it became caught in a wire fence and the team were called in sadly too late to save it. One elephant was also injured whilst crop raiding and another elephant, Bobo, was treated successfully for an arrow wound but was then fatally wounded by a spear following another raid on crop farms.

Human-wildlife conflict is a growing threat to Kenya’s wildlife and the DSWT’s ground teams are all on the alert for potential conflict in known problem areas, whilst the Trust is soon to be launching a new Community-Wildlife Conflict Resolution Unit in the Tsavo Conservation Area with a team trained to deal specifically in such incidents with the communities and help prevent further conflict.

TSAVO MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2016

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT APRIL 2016 Introduction During April the Tsavo Vet Unit covered for the Amboseli Vet Unit which was away on annual leave. Cases handled by the unit in the Tsavo and Amboseli ecosystems during the month included treatment of two elephant bulls with spear wounds in Amboseli National Park and Ol Donyo Wuas lodge in the Chyulus.

Two lionesses were also collared with satellite linked collars for monitoring and mitigating chronic livestock predation in Kuku Community Conservancy. Other cases handled were the autopsy of an elephant carcass in Choke ranch area and treatment of a bull with arrow wound at KMC ranch, Buchuma just outside the southern park boundary.

1.

AUTOPSY OF AN ELEPHANT CARCASS

Date: 1st April 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Choke ranch, Taita Ranches History A report was made by KWS rangers regarding the discovery of an elephant carcass inside Choke ranch that forms part of the bigger Taita ranches. The cause of death was unknown. The vet team was tasked with undertaking an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Autopsy The carcass was lying on the right flank with tusks missing (earlier removed by KWS rangers); there was sign of ante-mortem bleeding on the body surface. External examination did not reveal any visible wound. The skin was removed on the left flank and towards the spinal area for examination of any underlying injuries. Large amounts of ingester (food materials) were observed immediately under the skin near the lumbo-sacral area. The finding was abnormal and significant as there was a perforation of the muscles that not only cut through the muscles but also punctured the great colon. Massive peritonitis was also observed in the peritoneal cavity. Closer examination revealed a deeply embedded sharp arrow head between the muscle tissues. The arrow head was recovered.

Results Cause of death was by arrow shot that penetrated the peritoneal cavity and ruptured the colon causing massive peritonitis and death.

2.

LION COLLARING EXERCISE IN KUKU RANCH

Date: 2nd to 5th April Species: Lion (2) Sex: Male and Female Age: Adult Location: Kuku ranch History Kuku ranch is a community conservation area bordering Tsavo West National Park and Chyulu National Park.

Human predator conflict is high in the mainly pastoralist community that keep livestock as their main economic activity. There was increase in livestock predation by lions recently that lead to protest by the community and the killing of one lioness and injuring of several people. Discussion between the park warden, community representatives and the unit resolved to collar the problematic lions for easy monitoring and assist in conflict mitigation.

Immobilization and collaring The lion was immobilized using 300 mgs of ketamine and 4 mgs of meditomidineHcl after responding to a calling station near one of the hotspots; another dart was added to fully immobilize the lion. The lioness was immobilized the night after; also responding to a calling station by aid of night vision equipment. The collars were fitted with enough space to allow the lioness to feed and move with ease. The lions were revived approximately 1.5 hours later using 0.5 cc Atipemazolehcl and monitored until they moved away on their own. Further follow up reports indicate they are doing well with the satellite component sending signals.

3.

EXAMINATION OF A WILD DOG CARCASS

Species: African wild dog Sex: Male Age: Adult Date :7th April Place: Tsavo River along the Nairobi- Mombasa highway History and Examination While travelling along the busy Mombasa- Nairobi highway the vet unit came across a dead African wild dog lying beside the road with visible blood stains draining from the body. Closer examination revealed the dog was already dead and had multiple fractures of the femoral bones and the pelvic frame. The injuries were linked to road accidents by the speeding vehicles along the busy road.

Wild dogs are endangered and only small numbers still exist in the wild.

4.

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT BULL

Date: 10th April Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Bull Place: Oldonyo Wuas, Chyulu National Park History The elephant bull was spotted near a watering point in Oldonyo Wuas by Big life rangers from Mbirikani Ranch with wounds to the right rump discharging pus. They notified the vet team who were immediately airlifted to the area using DSWT airplane.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The vet prepared a dan-inject dart with 19 mgs of Etorphine and attempted to dart the elephant from both the vehicle and from foot. However, this was impossible so the the DSWT helicopter was called in to assist and arrived after 45 minutes.

The helicopter was used to approach the bull which had moved away after hearing the chopper noise. He was darted in the rump and kept in the open for up to ten minutes but ran into the bush despite spirited efforts by the helicopter pilot. He ran for nearly 2kms before going down after record 18 minutes. The elephant had two spear wounds, one to the right rump and the other at the base of the trunk. The necrotic tissues were cut away and the pus removed when the wound was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide. Tincture of iodine was then applied and Oxytetracycline spray administered before the wounds were finally covered with wetted green clay.

The elephant was given an intravenous administration of 50 cc Dexamethasone Hcl through the ear vein and 200 cc of long acting Amoxicillin was injected intramuscularly.

Reversal Drug reversal was achieved by administration of DiprenorphineHcl at three times the Etorphine dose.

Prognosis The bull woke up and moved away slowly. Prognosis is good.

5.

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT BULL

Date: 11th April Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Bull Location: Kimana gate, Amboseli National Park.

History The elephant bull was spotted near Kimana gate area by KWS rangers from the Amboseli platoon with wounds to the foot. They notified the vet team who were immediately airlifted to the area using DSWT helicopter to find the injured bull foraging nearby.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 20 mgs of Etorphine in a dan-inject dart. A vehicle was used to trail the bull who had moved away after seeing the vet vehicle. He was darted in the rump and kept in grassland by the vehicle.

He went down after 12 minutes.

There was one penetrating spear wound on the lateral aspect of the front right foot going through to the sole.

The wound was cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide and the necrotic tissues were cut away.

Tincture of iodine and Oxytetracycline spray were administered before the wound was covered with a final cover of wetted green clay.

An intravenous administration of 50 cc Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and 200 cc of long acting Amoxicillin was injected intramuscularly.

Reversal Drug reversal was achieved by administration of Diprenorphine Hcl at three times the Etorphine dose. The bull woke up and moved away slowly.

Prognosis Repeat treatment was advised after one month. Prognosis is good

6.

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT BULL

Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place:

25th April Elephant Male Bull KMC ranch Bachuma, Tsavo East National Park.

History The elephant bull was spotted in KMC ranch just outside the Bachuma –Dakota fence boundary by DSWT aircraft while patrolling the area. The team moved to the area aided by the DSWT chopper to try to drive the elephants back to the park and then treat the injured bull. Despite several attempts by the helicopter the elephants refused to cross the fence line even after the wire was removed and the elephants separated making the drive impossible.

The team decided to embark on the treatment of the bull.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized with 18 mgs of Etorphine in a Dan-inject dart. The chopper was used to approach the bull who had moved away after hearing the noise from the chopper. He was darted in the rump and kept in a less bushy area by the helicopter. He went down after 10 minutes.

There was one penetrating arrow wound to the left abdominal wall discharging pus and very swollen. The wound opening was enlarged, dirt materials and pus were cleaned out, necrotic tissues cut off and the wound cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide. Tincture of iodine was applied and Oxytetracycline spray administered before a final cover of wetted green clay was applied.

An intravenous administration of 50 cc Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and 200 cc of long acting Amoxicillin was injected intramuscularly.

Reversal Drug reversal was done by administration of Diprenorphine Hcl at three times the Etorphine dose. The bull woke up and moved away slowly.

Prognosis Repeat treatment was advised after one month.

Photos not available

Prognosis is good

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT MAY 2016 Introduction The month under review remained calm due to showers experienced in the ecosystem.

Cases reported to the Unit were a lame elephant near Voi River, Grants Gazelle with mange skin infection near Galana River, a snared Buffalo at Rukinga Ranch and an injured Cheetah that could not be traced near Ngutuni sanctuary.

1.

RESCUE OF A LEOPARD CUB

Date: 10th May 2016 Animal: Leopard Sex: Male Age: Cub Location: Mutomo station Rescue and Management The cub was reported by a community member who was burning charcoal near Kithima village of Mutomo area north of Tsavo East National Park.

The cub was rescued by a KWS team based at Mutomo station who later contacted the unit for assistance. The cub was transported to the Northern Park headquarters at Ithumba for airlift to Voi. The Nairobi orphanage indicated it was full and there was no space available to host the cub. Tsavo Trust took in the cub with plans for release back to wild when mature.

2.

LAME ELEPHANT NEAR NDOLOLO CAMP, TSAVO EAST

Date: 10th May 2016 Animal: Elephant Species: Loxodanta Africana Sex: Male Age: Sab-adult Location: Tsavo east- Ndololo camp History A sub adult lame elephant was reported near Ndololo camp, Tsavo east and upon being traced found to be an old injury that had already healed with no danger to the animal. The leg was deformed at the right knee joint making it shorter than the rest hence the abnormal movement.

3.

REPORT OF GAZELLE WITH MANGE INFECTION

Date: 12th May Animal: Gazelle Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Sobo rock, Tsavo East History and search The gazelle was seen by a tourist beside the road near Sobo rock on the road along Galana River from Sala gate.

She was restless with evident skin lesions covering most of the body.

After the report was received the team rushed to the area and searched for it in vain. Several hundred gazelles and impalas were surveyed along the Voi, Luggards, Sala and Aruba road and no signs of mange infestation were seen.

Mange is a disease caused by Demodectic and Sarcoptic mites which barrow into the skin and cause alopecia and intense irritation. It’s contagious and zoonotic. Further studies will be undertaken to understand the extent of its spread.

4.

DE-SNARING OF A BUFFALO

Date: 12th May 2016 Animal: Buffalo Sex: Female Age: Sab-adult Location: Rukinga ranch History A report was received from the Rukinga ranch regarding a snared Buffalo in the ranch. The team rushed to the area to find the snared Buffalo struggling to free itself with the rest of the herd had moved away.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The buffalo was immobilized using 4 mgs of Etorphine mixed with 50 mgs of Xylazine using a dan-inject dart from a dan-inject dart gun and it went down in 5 minutes. The strong wire snare was removed and the wounds around the base of the horns treated. The buffalo was administered with Dexamethasone Hcl and long acting antibiotic parenterally.

Reversal The anaesthesia was reversed using Diprenorphine at three times the Etorphine dose and 0.5cc of Atipemazole Hcl both IV through the jugular vein. The Buffalo woke up and ran into the bushes.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Other cases reported during the month EXPERT COURT TESTIMONY AT MALINDI COURT Dr Poghon of the Tsavo Mobile Veterinary Unit was asked to testify in a case involving persons arrested with ivory at Malindi court. This is after examining the trophies and producing an expert report.

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JUNE 2016 Introduction The month under review witnessed an increase in wildlife cases of various species with different ailments. Among these cases were two autopsies of elephants that were victims of poaching, an elephant bull treated for an arrow injury near Ngulia Rhino sanctuary, a cheetah treated for a leg injury near Ziwani gate and a leopard incriminated for killing a standard gauge railway worker, which was euthanized after being examined and found to be too old to survive in the wild.

In Tsavo East two old recumbent elephant cows were also euthanized after being assessed and found beyond any medical help.

1.

TREATMENT OF AN ELEPHANT BULL

Date of intervention: 8th June 2016 Animal: African Elephant Sex: Male Age: Young adult Location: Ngulia, Tsavo West History This lame elephant was seen by KWS rangers near a water point in Ngulia Rhino valley moving with a lot of difficulty and pain. The team rushed to the area to find the elephant under a tree nearby with a swollen left hind limb at the knee joint area and barely able to bare weight on it.

Immobilization, examination and treatment A dan-inject dart was prepared and filled with 16 mgs of Etorphine. The elephant was darted from a vehicle and moved a short distance before going down on the right side.

The necrotic tissues were cut off and the infected wound washed with water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide. An arrow head was retrieved from the necrotic tissues. Further examination revealed suppurative inflammation of the left knee joint rendering it non-functional. Tincture of iodine was splashed on the wound, which was then sprayed with Oxytetracycline spray and covered with green clay. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally.

Prognosis He struggled to wake up and had to be assisted by use of ropes wrapped around the tusks. Prognosis is guarded to poor.

2.

TREATMENT OF A CHEETAH

Date of intervention: 11th June 2016 Animal: Cheetah Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Ziwani, Tsavo West History The Cheetah was reported lame by lodge workers who saw it lying nearby with minimal movement. The team rushed to the area to find the thin Cheetah lying under a shade. Drugs were prepared for the darting process.

Immobilization, examination and treatment 50 mgs of Etorphine mixed with 1 mg of Meditomidine was used to immobilize the Cheetah. She was down in 4 minutes. The vet checked the lame hind limb but no external injury was evident. It is possible that the in. Long acting Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone was administered parenterally.

Reversal Meditomidine was reversed by use of Atipemazole Hcl. Prognosis Prognosis was guarded. Follow up yielded nothing as the Cheetah disappeared after treatment.

3.

MANAGEMENT OF A PROBLEMATIC LEOPARD

Date of intervention: 12th June Animal: Leopard Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Tsavo River, Tsavo East History There have been complaints of a man eating Leopard that killed a standard gauge Railway worker a month ago.

A decision was made to trap the leopard and examine it. It was finally trapped on 12th June and brought to the vet clinic for examination.

Immobilization, examination and management The leopard was immobilized using 100 mgs of Ketamine mixed with 1 mg of Meditomidine propelled in a daninject dart gun. The leopard was removed from the trap cage and placed in a tarpaulin stretcher.

Examination revealed a missing left upper canine and a broken right one. Loss of canines presents a challenge to predators in terms of killing prey hence they usually resort to livestock or even human predation. Translocation was not an option and euthanasia was recommended. 10Mls of 20% Pentobarbitone sodium rapid IV was used.

4.

ELEPHANT AUTOPSY REPORT

Date: 15th June Animal: African Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Lualenyi ranch, Tsavo West History A report was made by KWS rangers regarding an elephant carcass that was sighted in Lualenyi ranch and aged at about four days old. The request was for autopsy to be undertaken to know the cause of death.

The carcass was male lying on the right flank with the face chopped off and tusks missing. It was in an advanced state of putrefaction. The prepucial area was eaten away by scavengers and part of the colon was exposed. The skin on the left flank was removed exposing the subcutis which that was clear with no injuries seen. The carcass was flipped over exposing the right flank.

Blood clots were observed on the skin surface near the paralumbar area. On skin removal diffuse hemorrhagic patches were observed with a penetrating wound going deep into the abdominal cavity. On opening the abdominal cavity, the peritoneal fluid was mixed with ingester and had signs of inflammation. The wound was typical of an arrow wound but the arrow head was not retrieved due to advanced decomposition.

5.

RESCUE OF A SERVAL CAT

Date: 16th June 2016 Animal: Serval Cat Sex: Female Age: Kitten Location: Taveta, Tsavo West Rescue A tiny kitten was found by a community member who kept it overnight and took it to Taveta KWS station the next morning who reported receipt of the kitten.

Inquiries to Nairobi orphanage were made but as plans were being made to transport it there, the DSWT volunteered to host the kitten in Nairobi for eventual release back to the wild. The kitten was airlifted to Nairobi DSWT stockade for care.

6.

ELEPHANT AUTOPSY REPORT

Date of autopsy: 17th June Animal: African Elephant Species: Loxodanta Africana Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Jipe, Tsavo West History A report was made by KWS rangers of an elephant carcass that was sighted in the Jipe area of southern Tsavo West and aged at about 2 days old since time of death. The request was for autopsy to be undertaken to know the cause of death.

General Examination The carcass was male lying on the left flank with the face chopped off and tusks missing. It was in mid-state of putrefaction and bloated. The skin was examined for possible external wounds and three penetrating wounds were observed, one penetrating the left ear and entering the body at the right scapula blade area, a second one slightly higher and a third entering near the spinous process of the lumbar vertebrae. The skin was opened and the penetrating wound traced through the thick muscles, and penetrating the scapula blade and finally hitting and severing the lumbar vertebrae into two before disappearing into the chest cavity. Massive bleeding and muscle lacerations were also evident. The carcass was rolled over to expose the left flank and no lesions were observed. Two high caliber cartridges were found near the carcass.

Cause of Death Cause of death was a gunshot wound that severed the spinal cord and blood vessels at the anterior lumbar areas leading to massive hemorrhage, shock and death.

7.

TREATMENT OF AN ELEPHANT CALF

Date of intervention: 20th June Animal: African Elephant Species: Loxodanta Africana Sex: Male Age: Calf Location: Ngutuni, Tsavo east History This lame elephant calf was seen by DSWT stockade staff near the new standard gauge railway construction site in Ngutuni moving with a lot of difficulty and pain and accompanied by its mother. The team rushed to the area to find the mother and calf nearby with a swollen left hind limb at the fetlock joint area and barely able to bare weight on it.

Immobilization, examination and treatment A dan-inject dart was prepared and filled with 16 mgs of Etorphine and the mother darted first to prevent separation and allow the calf to be treated. She moved a short distance and went down on the left side. The nearly one-year-old calf was physically restrained and immobilized with 2 mgs of Etorphine by hand injection.

The leg was examined and no external wound was observed but the fetlock joint was swollen and firm. From the old skin lesions, the probable cause could be a wire snare that eventually healed. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally.

Reversal The calf was revived first followed by the mother by use of Diprenorphine. The calf struggled to wake up and had to be assisted by hand push and joined his mother who woke up seconds later.

8.

MANAGEMENT OF A SICK ELEPHANT COW

Date of intervention: 21st June 2016 Animal: African Elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult-old Location: Irima, Tsavo east History An Elephant cow was reported to be lying down flat under a tree by tourists visiting the area on a game drive.

The team rushed in to find the recumbent elephant cow lying flat on its right side with struggle marks evident around her. On closer examination she was found to be alive but was in very poor body condition; assessed at 2 in a body score of up to five.

Immobilisation, treatment and management She was administered with 3 mgs Etorphine IV then injected Dexamethasone and Catasol intramuscularly and long acting antibiotics. Anesthesia was reversed and ropes tied to a vehicle used to assist her onto her feet. She could only make it to a sitting position and could not rise even with assistance. After several attempts it was obvious she was old and too thin to stand up and a decision was made to euthanize to end her pain. The tusks were removed and handed to KWS security in Tsavo east for safe keeping.

9.

Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place:

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT BULL 22nd June Elephant Male Adult Murondo, Tsavo east

History This elephant bull was reported to have been hit by a train and survived near Ndara area of Tsavo East where another bull was killed earlier in the month. He lost the right tusk and the right eye amongst other wounds. He was reported sickly and not feeding near Murondo KWS camp.

Immobilization, examination and treatment 10 mgs of Etorphine in a dan-inject dart was prepared and loaded into a dart gun. He was darted in the rump and went down after 12 minutes.

There was a big cut wound above the right orbital bone that connected with the now destroyed and septic lobe.

Dirt was removed from the wound before the necrotic tissue was removed and the wound cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide and opticlox applied.

An intravenous administration of 30 cc Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and 60 cc of long acting Amoxicillin injected intramuscularly. Repeat treatment was advised after one month.

Reversal Drug reversal was done by administration of Diprenorphine Hcl at three times the etorphine dose. The bull woke up and moved away slowly.

Prognosis was poor.

10. EXAMINATION OF A GIRAFFE CARCASS Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place:

22nd June Girrafe Male Adult Taita ranch, Tsavo

History and examination Reports of deaths in Giraffes were received from KWS teams that patrol the Taita ranches which hosts a big number of wildlife.

The place was visited and the carcass reported as fresh, found to be more than a month old with all the soft tissues decayed away. The cause of death could not be determined.

11. MANAGEMENT OF A SICK ELEPHANT COW Date of intervention: 22nd June Animal: African Elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult-old Location: Dida Harea, Tsavo east History An Elephant cow was reported to be lying down flat by KWS rangers. The team rushed in to find the recumbent elephant cow flat on its left side with evidence it had been struggling for some time.

Immobilization, examination and treatment She was administered with 3 mgs Etorphine IV then injected Dexamethasone intramuscularly. Ropes were tied to a vehicle to assist her to her feet. However, she was unable to stand and after several attempts it was obvious she was too old to stand up. A decision was made to euthanize to end her suffering. The tusks were removed and handed to KWS security in Tsavo East for safe keeping.

12. TREATMENT OF AN ELEPHANT ORPHAN Date of intervention: 27th June Animal: African Elephant Species: Loxodanta Africana Sex: Male Age: Young Location: Voi stockade, Tsavo East History An orphaned elephant calf, named Embu, was separated from the orphan herd at Voi and was lost for two days.

It was finally traced and taken back to the stockade but had sustained several bite wounds from a suspected lion attack. Luckily all the wounds were soft tissue and muscle injuries.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The wounds were attempted to be cleaned before immobilization but the orphan became aggressive and had to be immobilized using 4 mgs of Eetorphine Hcl. The infected wound was washed with water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide. Tincture of iodine and Oxytetracycline spray were applied to the wound before it was covered with green clay. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally.

Prognosis Prognosis is good

13. TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT BULL Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place:

29th June Elephant Male Adult Airstrip, Amboseli National Park.

History The elephant bull was spotted in Amboseli area by Big life airplane on patrol with a wound to the left rump with blood oozing from it. They notified the vet team who were airlifted the next morning by DSWT aircraft to the area to find the injured bull near the main airstrip.

Immobilization, examination and treatment 18 mgs of Etorphine in a dan-inject dart was prepared and loaded into a dart gun. A vehicle was used to trail and dart the bull. He was darted in the rump and kept in open ground by the vehicle. He went down after a record 20 minutes on the left flank.

There was a bleeding spear wound to the left the rump. On probing the wound was discovered to be deep. It was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide. Tincture of iodine was then applied and Oxytetracycline spray administered. Finally, the wound was covered in wetted green clay.

An intravenous administration of 50 cc Dexamethasone Hcl was given through the ear vein and 200 cc of long acting Amoxicillin injected intramuscularly.

Reversal Drug reversal was done by administration of Diprenorphine Hcl at three times the Etorphine dose. The bull woke up and moved away slowly.

MARA MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2016

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT APRIL 2016 The month was characterized by early periods of intense precipitation which diminished gradually towards midmonth and finally picking up in the last week of the month. Due to the abundance of food and water for the grazers and browsers, conflict cases as a result of competition for resources with the locals have drastically reduced. As such the number of clinical interventions carried out over the month were few.

The following are the cases that were handled during the month of April:

1.

ASSESSMENT OF A LION CUB

Date: 11th April 2016 Species: African lion Sex: Male Age: 2 months Location: Keekorok area History Reports reaching the mobile veterinary unit from some tour guides and management of Masai Mara National Reserve indicated that a lion cub from a pride near Keekorok airstrip had strayed away from his mother and the rest of the pride. There were concerns that this cub could be having visual impairment as he wandered towards one of the tour guide’s van away from his mother. The mobile vet unit responded to confirm the condition of the cub and to decide on the way forward.

General observation and way forward We found the pride under a tree near the road relaxing after a recent meal. This was a pride of close to twenty lions composed of cubs of various ages. The smallest was about two months old and was the one described as having strayed. He had gone back to her mother, lied briefly on its side before moving ahead to suckle.

Closer examination with binoculars showed that there was no problem with his eyes and was just behaving normally. There was no evidence of visual impairment as described. This innocent lion cub due to curiosity and excitement had wandered to the van which had pulled close to the pride and is a phenomenon common with small lion cubs.

This was explained to the Masai Mara National Reserve management and the tour guide while the pride was left to relax peacefully.

2.

TREATMENT OF A LION

Date: 11th April 2016 Species: African lion Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Look out area (Masai Mara National Reserve) History This male lion, a member of Notch pride occupying lookout area within the reserve was seen by a visiting tourist who had developed interest in following this pride over some years. He reported seeing this male with lesions on his abdomen resembling those caused by mange. The vet unit responded and traced this pride to a hideout not far from look out.

General observation This big male was found in company of two others thought to be his brothers lying under a shade. When he stood up, a clear patch extending to either side of his flanks from the belly could be seen. The areas appeared alopecic and somehow discoloured. Apart from this, he had injuries on his back and left forelimb suspected to have been caused by warthog tusk. They had killed a warthog the previous day.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of a combination of 6mg medetomidine hydrochloride and 400mgs ketamine hydrochloride delivered in a 3ml Dan inject dart. Darting was done from a vehicle. He remained calm after darting before the drugs taking full effect in seven minutes. The two brothers were scared away to give room for him to be attended to. They were in good condition though. Examination revealed an alopecic patch extending from his belly on either side of his abdomen towards the flanks. This appeared to be mange infestation.

Additional injuries were seen on his left forelimb and dorsally on his back that appeared to have been caused by warthog tusk as they wrestled one down.

All the wounds were debrided with hydrogen peroxide, rinsed with water and wiped dry with sterile gauze.

Tincture of iodine and oxytetracycline spray were then applied. Additional treatment included parenteral administration of 3000mgs amoxicillin antibiotics.

As for the mange infestation, he received 100mgs of ivermectin parasiticide subcutaneously. Skin scrubbings for microscopy were also collected.

Reversal Achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs atepamezole hydrochloride one hour after immobilization.

He woke up within eight minutes to join his brothers.

Prognosis Good

3.

INJURED LION AT DOUBLE CROSS

Date: 12th April 2016 Species: African lion Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Double Cross (Masai Mara National Reserve) History This very old male was seen emaciated with swollen face by the Masai Mara National Reserve security personnel.

The warden in charge of Talek sector called asking for help for this lion.

General observation This male was found alone lying in a small bush, emaciated and in pain. His face bore fight wound injuries and purulent stuff was drooling from his mouth.

Immobilization, examination and treatment He was immobilized by use of a combination of 4mgs medetomidine hydrochloride and 250mgs ketamine hydrochloride delivered in a 3ml Dan inject dart. Darting was done from a vehicle. It took eight minutes for the drugs to take full effect upon where he was carried out from the thicket to an open place for treatment.

Examination revealed he had picked a fight probably in territorial conflicts with other males sustaining several injuries. The wounds were septic with maggots infesting which were manually removed. The distal part of the tail had to be amputated as it was getting necrotic. Examination of the oral cavity revealed injured tongue, with several teeth missing. Almost all the incisors were worn off. Three of the four canine teeth were missing with the only remaining being severely degraded and infected. There was evidence of advanced degree of degradation of the other teeth. All these were attributed to geriatric changes as this lion appeared old.

All wounds were debrided with hydrogen peroxide, wiped clean and rinsed with clean water. Tincture of iodine was applied and cloxacillin ointment infused. The pus in the buccal cavity was drained. The injured tongue was also cleaned. Very dilute hydrogen peroxide was carefully used to lavage the oral cavity to clear as much purulent stuff as possible.

Additional treatment included intramuscular administration of 3000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 100mgs ivermectin delivered subcutaneously to get rid of internal and external parasites.

Reversal This was achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs atepamezole hydrochloride one hour after immobilization. He woke up after four minutes, sat for a while before drifting back into the small thicket.

Prognosis Fair - with advanced age and worn out teeth, this lion will find it hard to hunt overtime and might not survive for long.

4.

INJURED ELEPHANT

Date: 15th April 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: Young adult Location: Mara Bush Tops History This elephant was seen in a group of about twenty elephants with an injury by Mara Bush Tops and KWS patrol teams. They informed the unit for attention.

General observation This elephant was in a big herd comprising of several families. A whitish purulent stuff could be seen oozing from a septic wound on his right flank. He had not lost his body condition though.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of 12mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered in a 1.5ml daninject dart.Darting was done from a vehicle. He remained calm after darting before giving in to effects of drugs after seven minutes.

He assumed left lateral recumbency affording us good opportunity to examine the injured side.

Examination revealed a penetrating wound about one week old which was already septic and oozing pus.The wound was about half inch in diameter and seven inches deep most likely caused by an arrow. Luckily it did not penetrate the abdominal muscles into peritoneum. Thorough probing of the wound was done and no foreign body found. The offending object could have since fallen. The wound was lavaged with hydrogen peroxide to remove as much dead tissue as possible, rinsed with clean water and tincture of iodine applied. Green clay was then packed to absorb toxins and hasten healing process. Additionally, this elephant received 15000mgs amoxicillin antibiotics and 2000mgs Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory all delivered intramuscularly.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 36mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through an ear vein. He woke up in three minutes to join the rest of the herd.

Prognosis Good

5.

INJURED GIRAFFE

Date: 21st April Species: Masai giraffe Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Olare Motorogi Conservancy History This mature bull was seen lying on the ground with both hind legs apart and unable to stand by Olare Motorogi security team. They reported this to the unit for assistance.

General observation and way forward This giraffe was found in sternal recumbency both hind legs apart and struggling to stand. There was evidence he had struggled for a while and had splayed while crossing a steep trench. An attempt to adduct the hind legs and help him up by pulling was fruitless as every time he struggled the hind legs splayed. The posture he adopted indicated damage to both hip joints when he skidded trying to cross the trench. Several attempts were made to bring him up but all in vain. Both joints were considered damaged and could not support this massive bull.

After carefully assessing the situation, it was decided that his further suffering be stopped. Euthanasia was advised and effected immediately.

Post mortem conducted thereafter confirmed damage of both hip joints with femoral heads partially out of there sockets and severe damage of pelvic ligaments.

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT MAY 2016 Introduction Similar to previous months, the month of May was characterized by heavy precipitation. Many seasonal and permanent rivers were flooded with resultant hindrance to mobility.

There is plenty of vegetation for wildlife to utilize within and around the park with few human wildlife conflicts reported. As has been the case for the last few months since the onset of rains, clinical interventions carried out were at all-time low.

The following are clinical interventions carried out during the month;

1.

TREATMENT OF AN ELEPHANT WITH AN ARROW INJURY

Date: 8th May 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Ngama Hills (Masai Mara National Reserve) History This adult female in a herd of about 20 elephants was seen walking with difficulty by tour guides on a morning game drive. They called the Mobile Veterinary Unit and the County Security Patrol Team for assessment and intervention.

She was found lagging behind the other members of the herd browsing lethargically and had lost condition. Her left front leg was swollen with a wound visible to the inner surface of her left arm near the elbow joint. Even with agitation, she was hesitant to move and when she tried she did so with a lot of difficulty and was obviously in a lot of pain.

Immobilization examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of 15mgs Etorphine hydrochloride delivered in a 1.5ml Dan inject dart from foot. It took seven minutes for the drugs to take full effect with the elephant assuming left lateral recumbency. She appeared to have been nursing as the teats were slightly engorged. The calf however, was not with her and was assumed to be among the rest of the herd.

Examination revealed a septic and maggot infested wound to the inner part of her left front limb near the elbow.

Further probing revealed a barbed arrow head buried deep in the wound. The arrow head was gently retrieved, pus drained and maggots manually removed. Additionally, the debris was cleared with the help of hydrogen peroxide and gauze swabs. The wound was then rinsed with clean water, wiped dry with clean gauze swab and tincture of iodine applied. Green clay was then packed into the wound to absorb toxins and hasten healing.

Additionally, she received 30000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotics and 4000mgs Flunixin Meglumine anti-inflammatory, all intramuscularly.

Reversal The anesthetic was reversed by use of 48mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride delivered intravenously through a prominent ear vein.

She had to be helped to rise up through pulling by use of ropes. She finally rose up and limped away.

Prognosis Good. She was observed a day later having walked more than three kilometres. She appeared stronger and relieved. Eventual follow-up showed that she joined the rest of the herd and migrated from the area having drastically improved.

2.

TREATMENT OF A WOUNDED LIONESS

Date: 15th May 2016 Species: African lion Age: Adult Sex: Female Location: Roan Hill (Masai Mara National Reserve) History This lioness nursing four, four month old cubs, was seen by Sala’s camp tour guides with some injuries. They called the Vet Unit for help and at the same time notified the reserve management who formed part of the team during intervention.

She was found in the company of another female thought to be her sister and four cubs which she was nursing.

They were all under some small shrubs, sheltering from the sun. When agitated to stand, she did so with difficulty and several bite wounds to her right thigh and a deep wound between her hind legs were visible.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 4mgs Medetomidine hydrochloride and 250mgs Ketamine hydrochloride delivered in a 3ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle. She became completely anaesthetised after eight minutes with the other female and the cubs running away to a nearby hideout when approached.

After making sure she was stable, examination revealed several bite wounds to her right thigh, and a deep one between her hind legs most likely inflicted by other lions after a fight. The deeper wound was bleeding and required some stitches after thoroughly debriding. Chromic catgut absorbable suture was used to stop the bleeding and to put in place subcutaneous suture to obliterate dead space. Tincture of iodine was then applied.

The other wounds were wiped with sterile gauze swab and irrigated with tincture of iodine. Additionally, Cloxacillin ointment was infused into all the wounds.

Other medications included administration of 3000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic intramuscularly and 100mgs Ivermectin parasiticide subcutaneously.

Reversal Reversal of anaesthetic was achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs Atepamezole hydrochloride one hour after immobilization.

She woke up after eight minutes and retreated deep into the shrubs. The cubs and the other female were guided by use of vehicles to join her.

Prognosis Good. Sala’s camp tour guide report that she was seen three days later in good shape preparing to hunt.

3.

RELOCATION OF A LIONESS FROM A CATTLE BOMA

Date: 18th May 2016 Species: African lion Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Talek History A call was made to the mobile veterinary unit by the Masai Mara National Reserve warden in charge of the Talek sector that a lioness was spotted having strayed into a cattle boma in the morning. The locals were threatening to kill her as it was a threat to the villagers and livestock that had already scampered out of the boma. This was an emergency and the unit responded quickly.

Capture and release This lioness had taken refuge in a bushy part of the boma and was out of sight from everyone. The bush was thick.

After laying out strategy with all participating advising the villagers to get into their houses, the lioness was provoked to move out from the bush. The lioness dashed out upon where she was darted with a combination of 6mgs Medetomidine hydrochloride and 250mgs Ketamine hydrochloride in a 3ml dan-inject dart from foot in a safe location. She was fully anaesthetised in seven minutes and a blindfold was applied. She was treated for minor bruises obtained from squeezing herself through the fence. She was loaded into the truck and taken back to the Reserve, to the relief of the villagers.

Reversal Reversal of the anaesthetic was achieved by administration of 15mgs Atepamezole hydrochloride one hour after immobilization upon release at the reserve. She woke up after eight minutes and walked away to freedom.

4.

INJURED LION

Date: 19th May 2016 Species: African lion Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Mara Triangle Conservancy History This famous lion, part of the Marsh pride and named Scar face, was seen in the morning by Mara Triangle rangers with a wound to the upper lateral side of his right eye.

This wound was a few inches from the previous scar which gave this famed lion the name Scar face. Scar face initially stayed in the Musiara area but of late has extended his territory to Mara Triangle but occasionally crosses the river back to Musiara where many members of the Marsh pride reside. Scar face has been treated several times over the past years and is always nervous when approached by a darting vehicle. Scar face was carefully observed from a distance undisturbed and there was clear need for treatment and closer examination of the right eye.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 6mgs Medetomidine hydrochloride and 250mgs ketamine in a 3ml dan-inject dart. Though elusive, Scar face was trailed and finally darted when he tried to hide under a small thicket. Darting was done from a vehicle and it took eight minutes for him to get fully anaesthetized upon which a blind fold was put in place. He was in good body condition and appeared to have recently fed.

Examination revealed a fresh wound above his right eye lateral to the previous scar. This could have been inflicted from fights with other lions and extended by his scratching on the resultant healing wound. The original scar has fibrosed, narrowing the upper eyelid but hardly affecting his vision and eye function. The new wound was cleaned with hydrogen peroxide soaked in a swab and wiped dry using clean gauze swab. Tincture of iodine was applied before cloxacillin ointment was infused. Both eyes were also given cloxacillin ointment infusion to avoid desiccation.

In addition, Scar face received parenteral administration of 3000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic given intramuscularly and 30mgs Dexamethasone sodium anti- inflammatory given same route. He also received 100mgs Ivermectin parasiticide given subcutaneously.

Reversal The anaesthetic was reversed by administration of 15mgs Atepamezole hydrochloride intramuscularly one hour after immobilization. He woke up within eight minutes and moved to a small thicket.

Prognosis Good.

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JUNE 2016 Introduction The month was characterized by a drop in precipitation and sunnier days. There is still plenty of food and water for the wildlife to utilise. However, there were unfortunate incidences recorded that involved Human Wildlife Conflict with two elephants treated for injuries sustained after raiding community farms.

One of the elephants treated was later fatally speared after going back to the farms. One male black rhino was also treated for injuries within the reserve and his condition is being monitored closely. One female leopard had to be trapped and relocated to the Masai Mara National Reserve after causing havoc in community areas killing several dogs, sheep and goats. Inquiry and a check-up on most animals treated the previous month indicate they are doing well.

The following were cases handled during the month:

1.

TREATMENT AND RE-COLLARING OF AN ELEPHANT BULL

Date: 8th June 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Olchoro-Oiroua conservancy History This massive bull collared three years ago was seen with an injury on his left rump. He is known to invade crop farms and was reported to have visited farms in the recent past. Mara Elephant Project team called the veterinary unit for help in treating this elephant christened Bobo, and at the same time replace its failing collar.

General observation Bobo was alone at the foot of a hill at Olchoro Oiroua conservancy in a thicket. Examination from the air showed he had an injury that required treatment on his left rump. Though calm, he was hesitant to come out of the thicket. His body condition overall was good.

Immobilization examination and treatment Restraint was achieved by use of 16mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered in a 3ml Dan inject dart. Darting was carried out from a helicopter. It took nine minutes for the drugs to take full effect with the elephant assuming sternal recumbence. He was immediately flipped over to lie on his left side in order to avoid compromising respiration.

Examination of the wound revealed it could have caused by an arrow shot a week prior to intervention with the wound becoming septic. Further probing did not reveal any foreign object and the arrow head was thought to have fallen out. The wound was debrided with hydrogen peroxide, wiped with gauze and tincture of iodine was applied. Green clay was then packed to absorb toxins and hasten healing. Replacement of the collar was going on simultaneously with a GSM/Satellite collar being deployed. This elephant received 30000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 4000mgs flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory all intramuscularly. Soundness of the collar was confirmed while the elephant was still under anesthesia and this will help in monitoring him as he is a habitual crop raider.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 48mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through the ear vein. He woke up in four minutes and climbed up the hill.

Prognosis Sadly, Bobo was fatally speared two weeks after treatment following another raid on crop farms. He was speared between 20th and 21st June and his fresh carcass found on the morning of 22nd June 2016 with visible spear wound on his left flank. Ingesta was seeping through the opening. Subsequent post mortem revealed a penetrating wound caused by a spear that tore his large intestines with severe contamination of the peritoneal cavity. He died of acute peritonitis as a result of this. Stomach contents showed he had recently fed on cereals mainly maize grains and sorghum suggesting that he had visited crop farms, a scenario confirmed by tracks of his collar.

2.

CAPTURE AND TRANSLOCATION OF A PROBLEM LEOPARD

Date: 9th June 2016 Species: Panthera pardus Age: Young adult Sex: Female Location: Released at Masai Mara National Reserve. Captured near Ewaso Ngiro This leopard was blamed for several livestock and pet loses within community areas and was successfully captured in a trap after several complaints from households affected.

It was decided that the ideal release site was the Mara Reserve, several kilometers away from where she was captured.

After thorough examination, she appeared to be in good health and was released deep in the reserve in the hope that she would settle down.

3.

INJURED YOUNG ELEPHANT BULL

Date: 10th June 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: Young adult Location: Aitong area History This elephant was seen by the Mara Elephant Project team together with KWS rangers with a fresh injury on one of his front limbs. He was among a group of elephants who for the past two days prior to intervention had raided crop farms in Munyas area near Aitong. Some of the elephants were said to have been shot with arrows by the community members. A scan of several herds within the area could not reveal any elephant with arrows protruding. The arrows could have fallen out since fallen.

General observation This young bull was alone a few meters away from the rest of the herd limping while walking. He could not completely come out of the thicket. Helicopter darting was preferred as this would aid in driving him closer to the edge of the bush.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of15mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered in a 1.5ml Dan inject dart. Darting was done from the air after driving this elephant close to the edge of the forest. It took seven minutes for the drugs to take full effect with the elephant going down on his right lateral side.

Examination revealed a fresh wound on his front left limb about eight inches deep and seven inches wide which was bleeding and most likely caused by a spear. The wound was wiped clean with sterile gauze swabs. Tincture of iodine was applied and cloxacillin ointment infused. The wound was then packed with green clay. Additional treatments included intramuscular administration of 15000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 2500mgs flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory.

Given that this elephant is in a herd prone to conflict with the communities in the area, it was decided that a GSM collar be deployed on him briefly for monitoring and be removed as soon as the situation calms down.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 42mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through a prominent ear vein. He woke up and dashed into the bush three minutes later.

Prognosis Good.

4.

POST-MORTEM OF AN ELEPHANT BULL

Date: 13th June 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Naboisho Conservancy History This elephant carcass was seen by Naboisho patrol rangers together with the KWS Rangers on their joint patrol.

They informed the Vet unit to come for assessment and try to establish the cause of his death.

General examination This carcass though relatively fresh, had been extensively devoured by hyenas some of whom were found in the vicinity. Vultures were also scavenging on the carcass with the internal organs already consumed.

The carcass was estimated to be 3 to 4 days old with the external surface showing bite marks by scavengers as they tried to rip it open. The tusks were intact and were collected by the KWS security team for accounting and custody. The carcass was a shell as all the internal organs had been eaten by hyenas.

Owing to the state of this carcass the cause of death could not grossly be determined and no viable samples could be collected.

5.

INJURED MALE BLACK RHINO AT MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

Date: 17th June 2016 Species: Black rhino Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Masai Mara National Reserve (Makalia area) History This rhino was seen by the Masai Mara Rhino monitoring team the morning on the same date, severely limping with fresh blood coming from his left hind leg. He took refuge in a big bush within the Reserve out of sight from everyone. They requested our services to help immobilize and treat him.

General observation Given that this rhino was out of sight from everyone, it was only feasible that helicopter services be sought for search and darting. This was readily availed and a search ensued. He was finally located not far from the edge of the bush, limping severely from his left hind limb.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 4.5mgs etorphine and 80mgs azaperone in a 1.5ml Dan inject dart. Darting was carried out from the air. It took ten minutes for the drugs to take full effect with this rhino assuming sternal recumbence.5mgs butorphanol tartarate was administered intravenously through ear vein to stabilize him before examination and treatment.

Examination revealed a deep bleeding wound on the inner side of his left hind leg about half inch in diameter medio-dorsally directed. There was a crack on the tibio-fibular bone that was evident on palpation via the wound opening. Luckily there was no complete fracture. Probing could not reveal any foreign object but the wound appeared very deep. This was considered to have been caused by a high velocity projectile, possibly a gun shot.

There was also a superficial abrasion wound on his left flank which did not appear serious, possibly caused by rubbing on sharp rocks or tree stumps while fleeing. Treatment involved stopping the bleeding by arresting bleeders, cleaning the wound with clean water and disinfecting it with tincture of iodine. Cloxacillin ointment was infused and the wound was packed with green clay.

Reversal Achieved by intravenous administration of 12mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through an ear vein and 50mgs naltrexone intramuscularly. He woke up after four minutes and stood briefly before moving away.

Prognosis Fair. A follow-up not long later showed he had improved greatly and managed to move more than two kilometres from where he received treatment. Close monitoring by the rhino team continues with regular updates on his progress.

6.

GIRAFFE AT KAWAII

Date: 17th June 2016 Species: Masai Giraffe Sex: Female Age: Young adult Location: Kawaii (Trans-Mara) History This giraffe was seen by the Ann K Taylor Anti-snaring team together with the Mara Triangle patrol rangers in a group of four others, limping while she walked along. They thought she had a snare and called us for help.

General observation She was seen with the rest of the giraffes browsing with an obviously swollen right hind limb. The swelling was on the metatarso-phalyngeal joint. This caused her limping gait.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 8mgs etorphine hydrochloride and 50mgs azaperone in a 1.5ml Dan inject dart. Darting was done from a vehicle. This giraffe was fully narcotized after eight minutes whereupon she was roped down.

Examination revealed an old and healed snare wound with resultant swelling and deformity of the joint. This is a giraffe we removed a snare from more than two years ago. At the time, she had complications of septic pedal arthritis which was treated yet she healed with a slight deformity.

She received 1500mgs flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory and 6000mgs oxytetracycline hydrochloride antibiotic, all intramuscularly.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 24mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through the jugular vein. She woke up within two minutes and joined the rest of the giraffes.

Prognosis Good. She can live with the deformity.

7.

INJURED YOUNG ELEPHANT

Date: 20th June 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: Sub adult Location: Olarro Conservancy History This young bull, in a group of about two hundred elephants, was seen by Olarro conservancy managers with an injury on his spine. They called the unit for help. The group was reported to have recently moved into the conservancy from Olkinyei area. These elephants had gone to a bushy part at the base of a hill within the conservancy and after two hours of searching, this elephant could not be traced. Helicopter services were then requested for search and possible darting. This bore fruits as he was finally located within the rest of the elephants in a thicket at the base of the hill.

General observation He was seen with a discharging wound about three days old, on top of his spine at the sacral portion.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of 10mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered through a 1.5ml Dan inject dart. Given that this elephant was already agitated, darting was done from a helicopter.

It took twelve minutes for the drugs to take full effect. In the meantime, the elephant was being pushed into the open and prevented from returning to the thicket. He assumed right lateral recumbence.

Examination revealed a spear inflicted wound about three days old on his sacral spine. Fortunately, it did not damage the spinal column but left a big gaping subcutaneous wound. No foreign object was detected as the spear could have since fallen out.

The wound was lavaged with copious amount of water and debrided with hydrogen peroxide. Tincture of iodine was applied for disinfection before being packed with green clay. Additionally, he received 15000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 2000mgs flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory, all intramuscularly.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 24mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through a prominent ear vein.

He woke up within three minutes of reversal to join the rest of the herd.

Prognosis Good.

8.

EXAMINATION OF AN ELEPHANT COW

Date: 22nd June 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Saruniarea (Mara North) History After the spearing and subsequent death of Bobo the collared male, there were concerns about the status of the other elephants in the area especially those who could possibly have gone to crop farms with Bobo.

After carrying out post mortem examination of Bobo, an aerial recce was conducted to check on the other elephants. A female elephant with two calves was seen with a collar that was expiring with a wound on her nape.

This was Ivy, female elephant collared three years ago. The unit decided to immobilise her for closer examination.

Immobilization, examination and treatment 15mgs etorphine hydrochloride was prepared to immobilize Ivy. She became adamant to move further into the bush despite spirited efforts to drive her out and the only viable option was to dart her from the air. She finally gave in to anesthesia after ten minutes near the edge of the forest. The young ones were driven away to give room for their mother to be attended to.

Examination revealed a small wound on her nape which appeared to be caused by abrasion. This was not a serious wound and topical oxytetracycline antibiotic spray was applied with additional 15000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic given intramuscularly.A decision to replace her collar with the one removed from Bobo was also arrived at and carried out.

Reversal Achieved by intravenous administration of 42mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through a prominent ear vein.

She woke up to join her calves within four minutes.

Prognosis Good.

9.

A FENCE WIRE ENTANGLED AROUND A GIRAFFE

Date: 27th June 2016 Species: Masai giraffe Sex: Female Age: Sub adult Location: Mara Simba History This giraffe was seen early in the morning of this date by Mara Simba staff, recumbent and entangled in a fence wire. They called the veterinary unit for help.

General observation We found this giraffe motionless with both hind limbs trapped by plain wire strands of a fence. Blood was oozing from her nostrils and her perineal area had been scavenged by hyenas. Both eyes had been gauged out by vultures.

Closer examination revealed she might have died less than six hours before our arrival. There was evidence of a struggle before death with indications of self-inflicted trauma to the head as she struggled to free herself.

It was concluded she died of fatigue and head injury as she struggled to disengage herself, hitting solid ground with her head. The carcass was removed and disposed of in a small thicket away from public view.

MERU MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2016

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT APRIL 2016 Introduction This report describes the activities of the Meru Veterinary Unit in northern Kenya in April 2016. Many parts of northern Kenya received rainfall in April, therefore adequate browse and water was available for wildlife.

In Ol Jogi wildlife conservancy a female giraffe with an obstructed birth was treated. In El Karama ranch an elephant showing severe lameness was attended to while in Meru national park we treated a white rhino for cutaneous filariasis.

1.

DYSTOCIA IN A RETICULATED GIRAFFE

Date: 10th April 2016 Species: Reticulated giraffe Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Ol Jogi ranch History A female giraffe in Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy was seen with a dead fetus in its birth canal for two days.

Veterinary intervention was required to save the giraffe from severe endotoxemia as it was unable to push the fetus out. This giraffe was raised at an orphanage in the conservancy and later released into the wild. It was a first time mother.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved using a combination of Etorphine hydrochloride 10mg and Azaperone tartate 40mg in a 1.5cc Dan-Inject dart from foot. Five minutes later the giraffe was roped to lateral recumbency.

Genital examination showed a dead fetus on anterior longitudinal presentation and dorsal - sacral position. The extended head, neck and front limbs were protruding from the vulva. Fetal – maternal disproportion (small birth canal) was suspected as the cause of dystocia.

Liquid paraffin was applied liberally to lubricate the birth canal. Ropes were applied in loops on the distal metacarpus to aid in traction. The fetus was manipulated gently and manual traction applied caudally and ventrally. A fully formed dead male fetus was delivered.

Fetal membranes were trimmed from the uterus and Oxytetracycline pessaries administered. Parenteral antibiotic and analgesic drugs were also injected.

Prognosis This giraffe was reported to have recovered one week after treatment. It is expected that this giraffe will be able to breed in future.

2.

CUTANEOUS FILARIASIS IN A WHITE RHINO

Date: 12th April 2016 Species: White rhino Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Meru national park History A male rhino in Meru National Park was reported to have shown a large cutaneous wound on the abdomen which required treatment. The wound had grown progressively over a period of two weeks.

Immobilization and examination The rhino was immobilization with a combination of 5mg Etorphine and 60mg Azaperone in 1.5cc Dan-Inject dart from a helicopter. The rhino was darted in the left rump and induction time was 7 minutes.

Examination showed ulcerative cutaneous wounds with serrated edges and pockets of pus. Wounds emitted a foul smell due to tissue necrosis caused by bacterial infection. These wounds are characteristic of cutaneous filariasis. The wounds were thoroughly washed with water diluted with hydrogen peroxide and then the necrotic tissue was cut away. Tincture of Iodine soaked in gauze swabs was applied and 1% Ivermectin 300mg and 20% Oxytetracycline administered subcutaneously and intramuscularly.

Reversal Anesthesia effects were reversed within 3 minutes of intravenous injection of Naltrexone Hcl 150mg.

Prognosis Filarial wounds respond to Ivermectin and antibiotic treatment, therefore this rhino is expected to make a speedy recovery. The rhino monitoring team will observe and report on their progress.

3.

POST MORTEM EXAMINATION OF A RHINO

Date: 16th April 2016 Species: Black rhino Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Ol Pejeta Conservancy A female black rhino carcass was found in Ol Pejeta Conservancy on 16th April 2016. Both horns had been removed by suspected poachers. A post mortem examination of the carcass showed that it had several gunshot wounds to its chest. Severe internal hemorrhage was also observed in the thoracic and abdominal cavities.

Projectiles consistent with small caliber fire arms were removed from the colon, pectoral muscles and the muscles of the forelimb. A female fetus in first trimester gestation was found in the uterus. Our findings showed that this black rhino died from severe hemorrhage due to gunshot injuries.

No images available 4.

LAMENESS IN ELEPHANT

Date: 25th April 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: El Karama ranch History This elephant showed severe lameness and a swollen left thigh. It was first seen on 24th April and treatment was carried out one day later.

Immobilization was achieved using 18mg Etorphine in a 3cc Dan-Inject dart from foot. Induction time was eight minutes after which the elephant fell onto sternal recumbency. The elephant was roped to right lateral recumbency for examination.

Examination and management The left thigh was grossly enlarged and warm to touch. Crepitus was felt on manipulation of the limb. A tentative diagnosis of fracture of the femur was made. An attempt to radiograph this leg was not successful due to huge muscle mass. Conservative treatment was attempted using parenteral antibiotics and anti – inflammatory drugs.

Reversal To reverse the effect of anesthetic drugs Diprenophine Hydrochloride was injected intravenously. After three minutes the elephant was assisted to standing position. However excessive mobility and leg deformity was later noted when this elephant walked off which confirmed a fracture and euthanasia was arrived.

Post mortem findings There was a hematoma affecting the muscles of the femur and comminuted fracture of the femur with severe bone displacement.

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT MAY 2016 Introduction This report describes the activities of the Meru Veterinary Unit in May 2016.

The unit attended to an elephant with severe joint inflammation in Ol Jogi ranch. In Meru national park the unit collared a lioness as part of lion monitoring activities in the park. A sub adult female lion was also treated after it suffered a penetrating wound to its thigh muscle in the course of hunting. A post mortem was carried out on a giraffe carcass to determine the cause of death.

We would like to acknowledge the financial and logistical support provided by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to enable treatment of injured wildlife in Northern Kenya.

1.

LION COLLARING

Date: 11th May 2016 Species: Lion Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Meru National Park Introduction This lion collaring was implemented as part of the KWS lion monitoring program in Meru National Park in collaboration with the Born Free Foundation. The Veterinary Unit that carried out the collaring is supported by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

One satellite tracking collar was fitted on a female lion in Meru National Park on 11th May 2016. Two additional collars will be fitted on lions in other lion prides. These collars will provide baseline information on home ranges, daily movement patterns of lion prides and interactions between groups. Seasonal variation in home ranges will also be studied. Data on group sizes, pride composition and prey availability will be collected through direct observation and analyzed.

Immobilization and collar fitting A pride of 4 lions consisting of 2 males and 2 females were located in the rhino sanctuary within Meru National Park. One female was selected for collaring and a combination of Ketamine hydrochloride 250mg and Medetomidine hydrochloride 8mg was delivered in a 3cc DanInject dart into the gluteal muscles. The lioness went down in 6 minutes and a blind fold was applied to prevent visual stimulation. Vital parameters such as respiration rate and body temperature were recorded.

A GPS tracking collar with an integrated VHF system from Savanna Tracking Company was fitted. The collar was programmed to transmit data at 1 hour intervals through the Google Earth interface. This data includes: date, time, longitude and latitude.

Direct observation of collared individuals/prides will be recorded once per week. Morphometric measurements and photographs were taken and recorded. In addition, the health status of this lioness was examined. Samples collected include whole blood in EDTA tubes preserved at -20°C and tissue sample in absolute ethanol.

Reversal For reversal of the sedative an intramuscular injection of Antisedan 0.5% was given one and half hours after darting. Ten minutes later this lioness was fully reversed.

Conclusion These collars will provide a better understanding of the lions of Meru national park and inform conservation decisions. Two-week data from the collars showed that the lion moves an average of 5.8 kilometers per day usually active at night.

2.

LAMENESS IN AN ELEPHANT

Date: 12th May 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Ol Jogi ranch History This elephant was reported to have shown severe lameness and swelling of the left forelimb for 5 days. Though it was in good body condition due to plenty of water and pasture, the wildlife manager at Ol Jogi requested for a veterinary review of this elephant.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved using 13mg Etorphine delivered in a 1.5 cc Dan-Inject dart into the left thigh. This elephant fell on right lateral recumbence after 4 minutes. Its trunk was extended to ensure patent airway and eyes covered to prevent visual stimulation by folding the ear flaps.

Examination showed a swollen carpal joint. Aspiration showed a clear fluid suggesting joint inflammation. No pus was seen. Betamox trihydrate 200ml and Flunixin meglumine 5% 40 ml were administered via intramuscular injection.

Prognosis Inflammation of joint structures has a guarded prognosis in elephants. Wildlife rangers in Ol Jogi were advised to monitor this elephant and report if further treatment was required.

3.

POST MORTEM EXAMINATION OF A GIRAFFE

Date: 17th May 2016 Species: Giraffe Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Meru National Park History Rangers on patrol reported a giraffe carcass within the rhino sanctuary in Meru national park. A field post mortem examination of the carcass was carried out to determine the cause of death.

Findings The carcass which was found on right lateral recumbence and showed good body condition. Subcutaneous hematoma was observed to the right lateral thorax. There was a frothy fluid discharge from the nostrils and oral cavity and extending into the trachea. The pericardium was adherent to the myocardium.

Conclusion This giraffe is suspected to have died from acute pneumonia.

No images available 4.

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED LION

Date: 28th May 2016 Species: Lion Sex: Female Age: Sub adult Location: Meru National Park History Tour guides from Elsas Kopje lodge reported that this subadult lion had a wound on its left thigh. Treatment was required to prevent wound infection.

Immobilization, examination and treatment This sub adult was found in a pride of 3 lions. Immobilization was achieved using a combination of Ketamine 200mg and Medetomidine 8 mg in a 1.5cc Dan-Inject dart placed into the thigh muscles. It fell onto lateral recumbence after 7 minutes. The other two lionesses were then pushed away by vehicle. A blindfold was applied and respiration rate and body temperature were recorded to monitor the lion under anesthesia.

Examination revealed a penetrating wound approximately 10cm deep suspected to have been inflicted during a predation attempt.

The wound was thoroughly cleaned with clean water and povidone iodine applied. Green clay was applied to prevent contamination by flies and to hasten healing. Parenteral antibiotic and Ivermectin was also given.

Prognosis This lion is soon expected to make a complete recovery.

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JUNE 2016 Introduction This report describes activities of the Meru Veterinary Unit in northern Kenya in June 2016.

An elephant which had fallen into a well and gotten stuck in Loisaba Conservancy was rescued, while in Lolldaiga Ranch we attended to an elephant which suffered gunshot injuries to its legs.

In Meru National Park an elephant which suffered wounds inflicted by a snare around its trunk was reported but efforts to trace it for treatment have not been successful. We will continue searching for this elephant. Other cases attended are described in the report.

1.

POST MORTEM EXAMINATION OF A BLACK RHINO

Date: 08/06/2016 Species: Black rhino Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Solio ranch History The KWS warden in charge of rhino at Solio ranch requested for a post mortem examination of a black rhino carcass on 8th June. This black rhino had been treated in March 2016 for injuries suspected to have been inflicted during territorial fights. Notable improvement was observed after the treatment but later in May its health condition deteriorated. A post mortem examination was carried out to determine the cause of death.

Findings The carcass was in poor body condition (score of 1 on a scale of 1 – 5). There were expansive cutaneous filarial wounds and decubital wounds with pus on both flanks indicating prolonged recumbence. Dehydration and pallor of the conjunctivae was observed indicating anemia. Heavy worm burden (nematodes) was observed in the small intestines. There were no other significant findings.

Conclusion This black rhino died after chronic illness. The immediate cause of death could not be determined from gross pathological examination.

2.

SKIN DISEASE IN A TRACKER DOG

Date: 08/06/2016 Species: Canine (Blood hound, Philemon) Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Solio ranch History A KWS tracker dog in Solio ranch showed lesions on the skin in the left hind leg for one month. Topical treatment using anti – inflammatory and antibiotic ointment was not responsive.

Physical examination showed a lesion characterized by hair loss, pruritus and a moist eczema on the lateral aspect of left metatarsal. Tentative diagnosis: Canine atopy Treatment To reduce inflammation oral corticosteroids were prescribed. Prednisolone 15mg twice daily was administered and tapered over a 5-day course.

Topical application of an anti-inflammatory ointment was also advised.

3.

LIONESS RELEASED IN MERU NATIONAL PARK

Date: 08/06/2016 Species: Lion Sex: Female Age: Adult Capture site: Solio ranch Release site: Meru National Park History This lioness was reported to be part of a group of three which was causing livestock depredation in Solio ranch.

The three lions had escaped through the fence separating the wildlife sanctuary from the ranch where they targeted livestock and was also a security threat to herdsmen. To capture the lions a cage trap with live bait was used. The trap was set overnight and inspected every morning to check if an animal had been captured. Two female lions were captured, one each on 28th May and 8th June. The lions were examined, treated for bruises and released in the expansive Meru National Park.

4. LAMENESS IN COMMON ZEBRA Date: 15/06/2016 Species: Common zebra Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Meru National Park History The Meru MVU found this distressed zebra during routine patrol in the park which showed severe lameness and swelling on the right hind limb. We immobilized this animal to investigate the cause of lameness and administer treatment.

Chemical immobilization and physical examination A combination of M99ÂŽ and Medetomidine Hcl delivered in a 3 cc DanInject dart was used to immobilize this zebra. Darting was done from a vehicle. The first attempt at darting was not successful. Fifteen minutes later a second dart into the brachial muscle was given. After 12 minutes the zebra which was immobilized in a standing position was blind folded and tipped to lateral recumbency.

Examination of the injured leg showed a swollen hock joint and deep bite wounds which were inflicted in a predation attempt. There were lacerations on the flanks and bite wounds on the nape and dorsal muscles of thoracic vertebrae.

Treatment and prognosis The wounds were washed using an antiseptic and debrided using hydrogen peroxide. Povidone iodine was also applied. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered by intramuscular route.

After treatment Diprenophine Hcl and antisedan were given through the jugular vein for reversal of sedative drugs. Four minutes later this zebra was fully reversed and showed immediate signs of pain relieve on its leg. It is expected to make a complete recovery soon.

5.

RESCUE OF AN ELEPHANT

Date: 16/06/2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult (15 years) Location: Loisaba conservancy History An elephant was reported to have fallen at night into a shallow water well and got stuck in Loisaba conservancy.

The conservancy requested for support to rescue this elephant. An aircraft provided by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust enabled quick response by the veterinary team to save this elephant. On arrival we quickly assessed the elephant which showed signs of fatigue and stress. Both hind legs were stuck in the well however, it could move its fore limbs in attempt to get out. There was an obvious risk of compromised peripheral circulation due to minimal space and massive weight of the elephant with pressure on the blood vessels and nerves in the hind quarters.

We decided to fill the well with soil and rocks using a tractor to reduce its depth and provide traction for the elephant. Ropes were also prepared in case we needed to pull the elephant however; these were not required as the elephant was released 30 minutes later.

6.

SNARED ELEPHANT

Date: 16/06/2016 Species: Elephant Age: Adult (15 years) Location: Meru National Park History An elephant in Meru National Park suffered wounds inflicted by a tight wire snare around its dorsal aspect of the trunk. Snares can amputate the elephant’s trunk which reduces its ability to reach nutritious vegetation and water. It can also cause asphyxiation and traumatic wounds. Hence there was an urgent need to find the elephant and remove the snare.

This elephant was sighted by a visitor on a game drive on the evening of 16th June who reported it to the veterinary team and park management but time was not adequate to immobilize and treat the elephant before dusk. Four vehicles and several rangers were deployed to search for the elephant at day break on 17th June and for the following three days.

For several hours in the morning and evening we inspected herds of elephants which had congregated around the river but the injured elephant was not among them. An aircraft also surveyed the park and provided positions of elephant herds to the team on the ground for extended search.

The search for this snared elephant has not been successful so far. Lodges and camps operating in Meru national park were informed to look out for the elephant and report it for treatment. We are hopeful that we will trace the elephant and treat it.

No images available

7.

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT

Date: 20/06/2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult (20 years) Location: Lolldaiga ranch History Wildlife rangers on patrol in Lolldaiga ranch reported that this elephant had showed a swollen front leg and lameness for 3 days. The elephant was confined to an area near a dam where there was plenty of vegetation and water. The ranch requested for an assessment and treatment of the elephant.

Immobilization and physical examination For immobilization M99ÂŽ 13 mg delivered in a 1.5cc DanInject dart was used. Darting was done on foot with the dart placed into the dorsal lumbar muscles. Down time was 10 minutes with the elephant positioned on left lateral recumbence.

Examination showed swelling of the right forelimb distal to the elbow joint. There were four (4) wounds penetrating into the muscles of the arm on both forelimbs. These wounds were purulent approximately 1 centimeter in diameter more than 10cm in depth on probing with some forceps. These wounds are consistent with gunshot injuries.

Treatment and prognosis Wounds were washed with water and an antiseptic and necrotic tissue debrided with hydrogen peroxide.

Povidone iodine was applied. A systemic antibiotic Betamox trihydrate and corticosteroid drug Colvasone were administered.

For reversal of anaesthetic effect Diprenophine hydrochloride 42mg was given intravenously and the elephant came around after 4 minutes.

Prognosis for this case is guarded. Wound infection may spread to the elbow joint which is difficult to treat.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT APRIL, MAY & JUNE 2016

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT APRIL 2016 Introduction The SCA Mobile Vet Unit was faced with a reduced number of cases within the ecosystem attributed to the rains within the area.

1.

TREATMENT OF A SPEARED ELEPHANT

Date: 21st April 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: 17 yrs Location: Amboseli National Park History This male was spotted whilst searching for a reported injured elephant which had been treated earlier. It had a fairly large swelling on the left forelimb and a spear injury to the right hip. He was also severely limping.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The bull was immobilized with 16mg EtorphineHcl in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. After 10 minutes, the bull went recumbent but on the left side and was thus flipped over for thorough examination and treatment. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

On physical examination the elephant the left forelimb was swollen but no physical injury could be seen. The wound to the hip was most likely inflicted by a spear but had healed with time. It was suspected that the swelling could have been caused by trauma. The elephant was injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Flunixine meglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes.

Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using 48mg Diprenorphine Hydrochloride. The elephant took 4 minutes to get up and walk away from the site.

Prognosis Good

2.

RESCUE OF ELEPHANT AT AMBOSELI

Date: 23rd April 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Infant (4 months) Location: Amboseli National Park History A young elephant was reported abandoned in Amboseli ecosystem in a swampy wet area around Risa village by big life rangers. The mother could not be traced hence reunion was impossible. A decision was made to relocate him the DSWT stockade at Nairobi National park for care and nurturing.

Rescue As this was a young elephant he was easily captured using physical restraints. Using a land cruiser the young elephant was relocated to a safe, warm holding ground awaiting relocation to Nairobi. The DSWT arranged for a chattered aircraft tio relocate the elephant to the Nairobi stockade.

The elephant was collected early on the morning hours of 24-4-16 and airlifted to Nairobi.

Prognosis The elephant is in good health and chances of survival are high

3.

HUMAN WILDLIFE CONFLICT – AARDVARK ROAD ACCIDENT

Date: 24th April 2016 Species: Aardvark Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Amboseli-Kimana gate road, Amboseli Ecosystem History A male aardvark was spotted by the veterinary team while on their normal routine patrol. It is likely to have been hit by a car on road in the early morning hours.

Case Management The aardvark was recumbent and immobile hence immobilization was not necessary for examination and assessment.

On physical examination the aardvark had suffered from compound fractures to the hind limbs and left forelimb, as well as head and spinal injury. A decision to euthanize the aardvark was made since no successful clinical intervention could be done.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT MAY 2016 Introduction The unit attended to various cases within Amboseli, Tsavo East and Tsavo West ecosystems.

During this month we attend to two cases of human wildlife conflict which resulted in the relocation of the problem animals as well as other clinical interventions.

1.

LION TRANSLOCATION

Date; 19th May 2016 Species: Lion Sex: Male Age: Sub-Adult – 3 years Location: Mbirikani, Amboseli Ecosystem History This lion was threatened by the community after it reportedly attacked various homesteads and killed livestock.

A decision was made to relocate the lion to Tsavo East to resolve this conflict.

Immobilization and relocation The lion was immobilized using 4mgs of Medetomidine and 296mg of Ketamine in a 3cc dart using a Dan-Inject dart gun. Full immobilization took place after 10 minutes and a blank dart was shot at him to confirm the lion was fully immobilized before the team approached. His eyes were lubed with OptiClox.

The lion was loaded onto a waiting land cruiser with a suitable transport cage and immediately relocated to Tsavo East – Lugards falls area. He was free from any injuries.

Reversal The anaesthetic was reversed using 12mg of Antisedan intramuscularly 1 hour after immobilization.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

2.

CROCODILE RELOCATION FROM SALT LICK - TSAVO WEST ECOSYSTEM

Date: 20th May 2016 Species: Crocodile Age: Sub adults History The crocodiles were reported to be a menace within the community hence a decision to relocate the 8 crocodiles to Tsavo river was reached.

Immobilization and capture The crocodiles were captured using nets and immobilized by use of ropes and elastic bands. The limbs were physically restrained using ropes and the mouth tightly shut using elastic bands to prevent injury.

The 8 crocodiles were loaded into a waiting land cruiser and immediately translocated to Tsavo River – Tsavo West National park.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

3.

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT

Date: 20th May 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult (35-40 yrs) Location: Maktau (Tsavo West) History The DSWT rangers reported to have spotted a male elephant with a suspected arrow injury to the left hind quarters. Having come in from Amboseli and aided by the Trust’s aircraft, a thorough search ensued. The elephant was finally spotted in thick bush in the midst of its family.

Immobilization, Examination and Treatment The elephant was immobilised with 18mg Etorphine in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a Helicopter. Unfortunately, the elephant went down to a sternal position in between thick bush after 8 minutes and was quickly flipped over to lateral recumbence using a landcruiser. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. Plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperature low and the ears used as blindfold.

On physical examination the elephant had swelling and a wound to the left hind quarters. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue and the swelling appeared to be as a result of a tumour. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide, then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A, 1200 mg and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes.

Reversal The anaesthetic was reversed using Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (60mgs) into the ear vein. It took 4.5 minutes to get up and walk away from the site.

Prognosis Fair

4.

TREATMENT OF AN ELEPHANT

Date: 28th May 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult (25-30 yrs) Location: Amboseli ecosystem-Selengei History The elephant was spotted by Porini camp game scouts. It had a fairly large swelling on the left hind limb and he was limping severely.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised with 18mg Etorphine in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. After 8 minutes, the bull went down on lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances and the ears were used as a blindfold. Plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperature low.

On physical examination the elephant had a swelling to the left hind limb; however, no physical injury could be seen. It was suspected that the swelling could have been caused by trauma; most likely inflicted by a fall or fight.

The elephant was injected with 200 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml flunixine meglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes.

Reversal The anesthetic was reversed using Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein. It took 10 minutes to get up and walk away from the site.

Prognosis Good

5.

TREATMENT OF INJURED ELEPHANT

Date: 29th May 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult (30-35 yrs) Location: Satao - Tsavo East National Park History The adult female elephant was spotted in Satao and was severely emaciated. A decision was made to immobilize and treat the elephant. The elephant darting was relatively easy from the vehicle as it was at a water hole.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised with 18mg Etorphine in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. Full immobilization took place after 7 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbency. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances and the ears were used as blindfold.

Plenty of water was doused on the ears (pinnae) and the entire body to help cool the elephant during the operation.

On examination, the elephant was in poor body condition and blood was oozing from the reproductive organ. It was suspected to have been a long standing infection probably after parturition. The elephant was injected with 200 ml Amoxcycillin L.A 20% and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 25 minutes.

Reversal The anaesthetic was reversed using Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein. The elephant was up in 10 minutes and walked away. Owing to her weakness, she was assisted by use of ropes tied onto a land cruiser.

Prognosis Prognosis is fair

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JUNE 2016 Introduction The SCA-MVU during this month was faced with a number of cases within Amboseli, Chyulu, Shimba and Tsavo ecosystems.

There has been a gradual increase in the number of cases probably due to the dry-weather season.

1.

TREATMENT OF INJURED ELEPHANT AT OL DONYO WUAS-CHYULU

Date: 1st June 2016 Species: African Elephant Sex: Male Age: 35-40 years Location: Near Ol Donyo Wuas Lodge, Chyulu Hills History The elephant was spotted by Big Life personnel near Oldonyo Wuas Lodge in the Chyulu Hills. The vet was airlifted from Shimba Hills where the team was attending to another case.

Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water for the injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system and from a DSWT helicopter. The elephant went down in a sitting position after 5 minutes. He was the turned over to access the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrance. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperature down. The ears were used as a blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a spear wound entering the skin around the trunk area. The wound had been caused by a spear which had fallen off with time. The wound was septic and had pus. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 50 ml flunixine meglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 40 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 8 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia.

2.

REMOVAL OF A SNARE FROM AFRICAN ELEPHANT

Date: 1st June 2016 Species: African Elephant Sex: Male Age: Approx. 17 years Location: Shimba Hills National Park GPS coordinate: 37m 0548864 Utm 9535188 History A solitary elephant with a wire snare was sighted on 28th May 2016 by KWS Shimba Hills National Reserve rangers on patrol. The vet at Amboseli National Park was notified and travelled to Kwale by road on 29th May but arrived late and it was decided he would begin the next day. The veterinary team together with a team of rangers from Shimba Hills embarked on a thorough search for the elephant and finally managed to dart the elephant at 6.20 p.m on 1st June 2016 after 4 days of thorough searching.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99®) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared.

Darting was carried out from a vehicle using a Dan inject dart rifle (Dan-inject APS, Sellerup Skovvej, Denmark) the elephant was darted and immobilized after 5 minutes.

Examination and Treatment The elephant was promptly de-snared. The wound was about 10cm wide by 5cm depth and had pus due to the strangulating wire snare which was deeply embedded into the soft tissue. The right fore-limb was heavily swollen.

The wound was cleaned with copious amounts of water to remove mud and dirt. The wound was then thoroughly cauterized with dilute hydrogen peroxide, then again was liberally cleaned with Tincture of iodine and the sinuses formed by the embedded wire were thoroughly lavaged with Tincture of iodine. Oxytetracycline spray and cream (Norbrook Laboratories Limited, United Kingdom) was applied. The wound was covered with green clay to promote faster healing. The elephant was doused with plenty of water and eyes were covered with the pinna of the ear.

The elephant bull was injected with the following: Amoxicillin Trihydrate BP 15,000mg (Betamox® LA Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) by intramuscular route Flunixin meglumine 2500mg (Norbrook Laboratories (GB) Limited, United Kingdom) i.m Reversal Using 60mg of diprenorphine Hcl (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Limited) given IV at the ear vein, the elephant was reversed from anesthesia; (a ¼ of the dose was given i.m). Recovery from anesthesia was smooth and he managed to ambulate well.

Prognosis Good

3.

CLINICAL INTERVENTION OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT

Date: 4th June 2016 Species: African Elephant Sex: Male Age: 30-35 years Location: Sarova (Tsavo West National Park) History The Taita Ranch rangers a sick elephant within the ranch. The veterinary team attended to the case.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99ÂŽ) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 17mg topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared. Darting was carried out using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. The elephant appropriately went down to a lateral recumbence after 7 minutes. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperature down. The ears were used as a blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had serious sceptic wounds on the hindquarters. The entire external and internal reproductive organs had been completely damaged. The wounds were septic and had necrotic tissue.

The wound is likely to have been caused by cancerous wounds causing extensive tissue and organ damage. The tentative diagnosis was melanoma.

A decision was made to euthanize the elephant as the prognosis was poor. The KWS Bura community rangers removed the tusks and handed them over to the authorities concerned.

4.

TREATMENT OF INJURED BULL ELEPHANT AT ITHUMBA

Date: 8th June 2016 Species: African Elephant Sex: Male Age: 30-35 yrs History The elephant was spotted while searching for a reported injured elephant at the Ithumba stockade by the DSWT pilot. Plans were made to airlift the vet from Amboseli to Ithumba immediately. The wound was serious and necessitated darting and treatment. The elephant was darted from a vehicle.

Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system and was done from a vehicle. The elephant went down on dog sitting position after 8 minutes. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 20 cm diameter wound (approx. 1 month old) on the left flank region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound had been caused by an arrow head which had fallen off with time and caused massive tissue damage. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 50 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 5 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia.

5.

TREATMENT OF AN INJURED ELEPHANT BULL

Date: 14th June 2016 Species: African Elephant Sex: Male Age: 15-20 yrs Location: Namelok - Amboseli ecosystem History The Big Life Foundation rangers reported a male elephant with a suspected a spear injury on the left flank. A thorough search ensued and the elephant was finally spotted in thick bush, alone. At the best convenience darting was done and attempts made to drive him to some open ground. Unfortunately, the elephant still went down to a lateral recumbence in the bush.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99ÂŽ) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 16mg topped up with water for injection in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared. Darting was carried out using the Dan Inject system from a vehicle. The elephant first went down to lateral recumbence after 8 minutes. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures down and the ears were used as a blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a spear wound approximately one week old. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using clean water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A, 1200 mg and 50 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (48mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took 4 minutes for him to get up and walk away from the site.

Prognosis Good

6.

TREATING A MALE ZEBRA

Date: 16th June 2016 Species: Zebra Sex: Male Age: Adult History An injured male zebra was spotted by the veterinary team while on routine patrol. The veterinary team made the decision to immediately immobilize and examine the zebra.

Immobilization The zebra was immobilized using 7 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride and 60 mg azaperone in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done from a vehicle using Dan-inject system. Full immobilization took place after 5 minutes, and he fell on a lateral recumbence. The zebra was blind folded and opticlox applied to the eyes to avoid damage.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the zebra had a swelling, a septic injury distal to the left hock joint which could have been caused by an attack from a predator. The wounds were thoroughly cleaned using clean water, hydrogen peroxide and normal saline for rinsing. The dead tissue was removed and lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was applied to the wounds to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The zebra was then injected with 90 ml Betamox L.A and 50 ml flunixine meglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 25 min.

Reversal Reversal of immobilization was done using 18 mg diprenorphine HCL and it took about 4 minutes for complete reversal.

Prognosis The prognosis is good.

7.

TREATMENT OF A BULL ELEPHANT

Date: 17th June 2016 Sex: Male Species: African Elephant (Known as Tim) Age: 40-45 yrs Location: Amboseli National Park History This elephant, who is a famous bull in the Amboseli ecosystem named Tim, was spotted at Kimana sanctuary by Sidai Oleng rangers. The elephant was darted for examination from a vehicle after a thorough search with the help of a Big Life foundation light aircraft, rangers and KWS rangers.

Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system and was done from a vehicle. The elephant went down in a sitting position after 7 minutes. He was the flipped over to access the wound. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperature down. The ears were used as a blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a spear wound going through the pinnae, his ear. The wound had been caused by a spear which had fallen off with time but had caused tissue damage. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 50 ml flunixine meglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 5 minutes for him to fully awaken from the anesthesia.

Prognosis: Tim will make a full recovery

8.

REPLACEMENT OF A GPRS COLLAR ON AN ELEPHANT COW

Date: 17th June 2016 Species: African Elephant Sex: Female Age: 35-40 yrs Location: Amboseli National Park History The adult female elephant, who is a matriarch, was collared to monitor its movements and that of its group in the year 2013. The collar failed transmission after 2 years and since then the elephant has been looked for until she was spotted in the park on the 15th June by the Amboseli KWS research personnel. Owing to her elusive behavior, a decision was made to immobilize and place a new collar on the elephant. In liaison with the KWS research team, a thorough search was ensued on the 17th June, and darting was successfully completed at 4.15 p.m. The darting was relatively easy from the vehicle after driving the elephant to an open ground away from the swampy area.

Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart topped up using water for injection. Darting was done using Dan-inject system from the vehicle. Full immobilization took place after 7 minutes and she fell on lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold. Plenty of water was doused on the ears (pinnae) and the entire body to help cool the elephant during the operation.

Examination and Treatment A physical examination was carried out and she was found to be in good health. The old collar was removed and replaced with a new one. The elephant was then administered with 100ml Oxytetracycline Hcl to cover for any opportunistic infections after the exercise.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. The elephant was up in 6 minutes and walked away.

Prognosis Prognosis is good