DSWT/KWS Quarterly Mobile Veterinary Unit Report October to December 2016 by Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

MOBILE VET UNITS TSAVO – MARA – MERU AMBOSELI REPORT OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2016

MOBILE VETERINARY UNITS OVERVIEW OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2016 During the October to December 2016 3-month reporting period, the DSWT in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service and their four dedicated KWS field veterinary officers, attended to 82 wildlife cases. Of the 82 cases attended 52 cases included elephants; 20 of these elephant cases were directly related to poaching activities including poisoned arrow poaching, spearing, snaring and gunshot injuries, whilst there were also 10 elephant rescues during this period, 3 human-wildlife conflict cases, (1 relocation, 1 collaring of the famous Amboseli tusker â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;), as well as 4 other collarings, 7 cases treated for natural causes and 7 postmortems. During this period 3 rhino cases were also attended to along with 9 lion cases. A number of other species including giraffe, zebra, buffalo and plains game were also treated by the four veterinary units throughout this period, whilst a warthog, ostrich and crocodiles were relocated.

The Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit attended to 29 cases, many of these cases were contributed to the onset of the dry season with a number of elephants succumbing to malnourishment and dehydration, whilst many elephant calves were rescued from dried out and muddy watering holes. Despite these natural causes a number of cases were still directly related to poaching activities and human-wildlife conflict throughout the Tsavo Conservation Area. The Mara Mobile Vet Unit attended to 14 cases of which 5 of the cases involved elephants, 4 cases were predators, and the remaining cases included a zebra, giraffe, buffalo. The Meru Mobile Vet Unit attended to 18 cases including 8 elephants, 3 rhinos, 2 predators, zebra, giraffe and the near extinct bongos. The Amboseli Mobile Vet Unit attended to 21 cases, 14 of which were elephant cases and the other cases included 4 predators, 2 giraffes and an antelope.

TSAVO MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2016

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OCTOBER 2016 Introduction The month of October experienced an increase in cases of Elephant treatments and rescues mainly attributed to the prevailing drought conditions in the ecosystem. Many calves were rescued after being abandoned by their mothers because they were too weak to move along with the herd. Others got stuck in muddy water pools and had to be rescued. T wo Elephants were treated for arrow wounds thought to have been caused by human- wildlife conflicts in Taita sisal estate that borders a community area. A Zebra and a young elephant were treated for snares in Mbulia and Taita salt lick conservancies respectively. Two calves were rescued after being found recumbent near Aruba lodge area, Tsavo east. The rains expected late in October have delayed and if not received in the Month of November, wildlife suffering will continue.

1. Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place:

Treatment of an injured Elephant Cow (Ex Orphan Emily) 13th October 2016 Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Female Adult Taita Sisal Estate sanctuary, Mwatate

Introduction The elephant cow was reported by Teita sisal estate staff to be injured with an arrow head sticking on the side inside Teita sisal estate wildlife sanctuary. The Vet team arrived at the area to find the herd of former Ex Orphan elephants nearby. Emily, the matriarch, was easily picked from the herd and an arrow head could be easily seen in her side. Immobilization 16 mgs of etorphine in a dan inject dart was prepared and loaded into a dart gun. Foot was used to approach and dart the young cow. She was darted in the rump and went down on the left flank after 5 minutes. She was rolled over to expose the right flank with the arrow. Treatment The arrow head was removed and the wound cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide doused with tincture of iodine and covered in green clay. Long acting antibiotics and dexamethasone were administered parenterally. Anaesthesia reversal was done by administration of 24 mgs of Diprenorphine with 25 mgs of Naltrexone Hcl. She woke up and joined the rest of the herd. Prognosis is good.

Autopsy Examination of Elephant Calf Carcasses

Date: 14th October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Male and female Age: 2 calves Location: Dida Harea waterhole, Tsavo East National Park History and Autopsy The dead elephant calves were spotted near the Dida Harea water pumb under a tree with no family around. The vet team was requested to find the cuase of the deaths. External examination revealed bite marks on the throats and back of the two carcases. The calves were very young, approximated between than 4-6 months old and in good body condition. No other injuries were observed. The injury marks indicated a lion attack on the calves. The question we were not sure about is how the calves were attacked and the mothers and maternal family did not protect them, as is usually the case.

Treatment of a snared Zebra

Date: 15th October 2016 Species: Common Zebra Sex: Female Age: Adult Place: Mbulia sanctuary, Tsavo east Introduction The Zebra was reported by the DSWT desnaring teams patrolling the area. The wire snare was long and dragging along the ground, impeding movement. She was easily traced as some people were left tracking her. Immobilization 6 mgs of Etorphine Hcl and 60 mgs of Xylazine in a dan inject dart was prepared and loaded into a dart gun. She was approached on foot and darted. The first dart bounced and a second one was prepared. She was darted at the ramp and went down on the right flank after running for about 5 minutes. Treatment The wire snare was removed and the slight cuts on the neck treated with antibiotic spray and iodine. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally. Anaesthetic reversal was done the administration of 18 mgs of Diprenorphine Hcl and 2.5 mgs of Atipemazole Hcl IV through the jugular vein. Prognosis is good.

Rescue of Two Elephant Calves near Aruba Area

Date: 19th October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Male and Female Age: 2 and 4 years old Location: Aruba, Tsavo East History and treatment A report was received from KWS security teams of one elephant calf that had fallen and was unable to get up near Aruba water wind mill. The vet team together with the Voi stockade team rushed to the area to find the young elephant calf lying down, struggling to stand up. Attempts to pull the calf onto its feet failed a he was too weak. Examination revealed it was too weak to survive alone and was transported to Voi stockade for treatment and care. Immediately the vet team was alerted of another recumbent calf nearby. Both calves were rescued and taken to Voi stockade. At the Voi stockade they were administered with 50 % dextrose bolus IV and a further slow IV lactated ringerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solution through the ear vein. Further administration of long acting Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone was done. The older calf was kept at Voi stockade while the younger one was airlifted to Nairobi orphanage. They were both diagnosed with poor nutrition due to the prevailing drought conditions in Tsavo.

Rescue of an Elephant stuck in Muddy Dam in Kuranze

Date: 20th October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Male Age: Young adult Location: Kuranze, Kwale County. Date of intervention: 20th October History, examination and management The report was received from KWS security personnel manning the Tsavo ranches; they spotted a weak elephant that got stuck in a dried-up dam in Kuranze ranch. The dam had formed a muddy trap for this weak and emaciated elephant as it was drying. The Elephant was so stuck in the mud that treatment of an arrow wound on the thigh was undertaken without the need for anaesthesia. Pus was drained from the wound and it was further washed using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide and doused with tincture of iodine. It was finally covered in green clay. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered by injection. The elephant was then pulled out of the mud using ropes tied to a land cruiser and assisted onto its feet with the ropes tied to the upper tusk. He struggled to his feet and moved away slowly, but still shaking from the trauma of being stuck in the mud for so long.

Autopsy of an Elephant Bull Carcass

Date of Autopsy: 22nd October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Rukinga ranch, Tsavo East History A report was received from KWS rangers of an elephant calf carcass that was seen in Rukinga ranch adjacent to Tsavo east National Park. The request was for an autopsy to be undertaken to establish the cause of death. Autopsy We found the carcass belonged to a male, bull elephant; it was lying on sterna recumbency with huge chunks of flesh removed by community members living nearby. There seemed to be no disturbance in the vicinity. Most of the internal organs had hemorrhages within. There was no external injury on the carcass that we could find. Cause of death â&#x20AC;&#x201C; suspected food poisoning.

7. Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place:

Treatment of an Injured Young Elephant with a Snare 24th October 2016 Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Female 5 years old Taita Salt Lick Sanctuary

Introduction The elephant calf was reported to be injured with a tight snare around its neck near the Taita salt lick wildlife sanctuary. The Vet team rushed to the area to find the herd of Elephants near the hotel drinking water. The young Elephant was easily spotted with a snare around its neck. Immobilization and Treatment 6 mgs of etorphine in a dan inject dart was prepared and loaded into a dart gun. A vehicle was used to approach and dart the young elephant. She was darted in the rump and went down on the left flank after 5 minutes. Two vehicles were used to separate her from the protective herd. The snare was removed and the wound cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide doused with tincture of iodine and covered in green clay. Long acting antibiotics and dexamethasone were administered parenterally. Anaesthesia reversal was done by administration of 12 mgs of Diprenorphine. She woke up and joined the rest of the herd. Prognosis is good.

Autopsy of a Young Bull Elephant

Date of autopsy: 24th October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Male Age: Young adult Location: Wangalla ranch, Tsavo East History A report was received from KWS rangers of an elephant calf carcass that was seen in Wangalla ranch adjacent to Tsavo east National Park. The request was for an autopsy to be undertaken to establish the cause of death. Autopsy The carcass was male lying on lateral recumbency with slight carnivore activity on the carcass. The Elephant seemed to have struggled for some time on the ground. The condition of the carcass was very poor rated at 2/5. No pathological changes were observed upon opening. Cause of death- Poor nutrition.

Rescue of an Elephant Calf in Rukinga Ranch

Date: 26th October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Male Age: 3 months old Location: Rukinga ranch, Tsavo East History and treatment A report was made by Rukinga ranch staff of one elephant calf that was abandoned and observed to be alone since the previous day. The vet team together with the Voi stockade team rushed to the area to find the young elephant calf alone in a nearby bush. The calf was captured and loaded onto a landcruiser. Due to its age the calf was airlifted to Nairobi orphanage for care. The dry spell within the ecosystem usually leads to separation of mothers with calves unable to walk for long distances in search of food and water.

10. Treatment of an injured Elephant cow Date: 27th October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Female Age: Adult Place: Teita sisal wildlife sanctuary, Mwatate Introduction The elephant cow was reported to be injured with two arrow wounds on the right had side of her chest, near the area of the Teita sisal estate wildlife sanctuary, Mwatate. The Vet team rushed to the area to find the herd of elephants nearby. The elephant cow was easily spotted with the arrow injuries. Immobilization and Treatment 16 mgs of etorphine in a dan inject dart was prepared and loaded into a dart gun. Vehicle was used to approach and dart the young Elephant. She was darted in the rump and went down on the left flank after 5 minutes. Two vehicles were used to separate her from the protective herd. Two fresh arrow heads were removed and the wound, which was cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide, doused with tincture of iodine and covered in green clay. Long acting antibiotics and dexamethasone were administered parenterally. Anaesthesia reversal was done by administration of 48 mgs of Diprenorphine through the ear veins. She woke up and joined the rest of the herd. Prognosis is good.

11. Rescue of an Elephant calf in Aruba Date: 30th October 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana (African Elephant) Sex: Male Age: 6 months old Location: Aruba, Tsavo East GPS: 37M 0480021 UTM 9630573 History and treatment A report was received from the Aruba lodge staff of an elephant calf that was abandoned and unable to wake up near the Aruba water wind mill. The vet team together with the Voi stockade team rushed to the area to find the young elephant lying down and struggling to stand up. Examination revealed it was too weak to survive alone and was transported to Voi stockade for treatment and care. He was administered 50 % dextrose bolus IV and a further slow IV lactated ringerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solution through the ear vein. Further administration of long acting Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone was done. Due to his age the calf was then airlifted to the Nairobi nursery for care. He was diagnosed with poor nutrition due to the prevailing drought conditions in Tsavo. Prognosis is guarded.

12. De-snaring of a Waterbuck Date: 30th October 2016 Species: Waterbuck Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Park HQ, Tsavo East GPS: 37M 0453801 UTM 9628556 History and treatment The waterbuck was spotted near the Voi gate with a wire snare dangling from its horns. Drugs were prepared with 6 mgs Etorphine and 40 mgs xylazine. The antelope was darted on the rump and went down after six minutes. The wire was not very tight and it was removed easily before the anesthesia was reversed and the waterbuck walked off okay. Prognosis is good.

Other cases handled by the unit The unit also rescued several buffalo calves found alone in Taita salt lick and Tsavo east area and took them to Voi Elephant stockade for care. All were attributed to starvation and predation of their mothers.

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT NOVEMBER 2016 Introduction The month of November continued to experience an increase in cases of elephant treatment and rescue mainly attributed to the prevailing drought conditions in the ecosystem. Many calves were rescued after being abandoned by their mothers because they were too weak to move along with the herd. Others got stuck in muddy water pools and had to be rescued. Two elephants were treated for arrow wounds thought to have been caused by human-wildlife conflicts in Taita sisal estate that borders a community area. Two elephants were assisted onto their feet after being found recumbent and several elephant carcasses examined for cause of death with many being linked to the prevailing drought conditions. Good rains were received in late November and this is expected to drastically reduce mortalities in elephants and other species. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also thought that the newly built railway made it difficult for many elephants that move to the Taita ranches during the dry spell to escape dwindling food availability in the park hence there have been more deaths than normally occurs at this time of the year. It will take time for the elephants to get used to the new passage ways across the railway.

1. Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place: GPS:

Rescue of a Young Elephant 2nd November elephant Female 5 years old Aruba lodge, Tsavo east 37M 0480054 UTM 9629412

Rescue It was reported by Aruba lodge staff that a young female elephant aged about 5 years was stuck in muddy water pool next to the lodge. The Vet team rushed to the area to find the elephant halfway submerged and a family of elephants nearby. The elephant was fastened to ropes that were tied onto a vehicle and pulled out of the mud. She was assisted onto her feet by a team from Tsavo vet and DSWT stockade staff. She stood up and joined a nearby family and calmly walked away.

Treatment and Rescue of an Elephant Hit by a Lorry

Date: 2nd November Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: 5-6 years old Location: Tsavo River Bridge, Tsavo East History A report was made by KWS security teams of one sub-adult elephant that was standing on the road causing a traffic jam and unable move away along Nairobi-Mombasa highway near Voi River Bridge. The vet team together with the Voi stockade team rushed to the area to find the young elephant standing beside the road. Treatment Close examination revealed concussion marks and vehicle paint on the skin. He was darted using 6 mgs of Etorphine and went down in 5 minutes. Examination revealed 3 broken ribs among other soft tissue injuries. He was administered with long acting antibiotics and dexamethasone. Due to the severe injuries, he was deemed too weak to survive in the wild and hence loaded onto a truck with assistance of railway construction workers and transported to the Voi stockade for treatment and care. Further treatments continued at Voi with the elephant collapsing several times and being assisted onto his feet. By the time of reporting, the elephant was progressing very well and will pull through despite the poor initial prognosis.

Treatment of a Snared Young Elephant

Date: 4th November 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Female Age: 4 years old Place: Taita sisal estate wildlife sanctuary, Mwatate Introduction The elephant calf was reported to be injured with front limb lameness in Teita Sisal Wildlife Sanctuary. The Vet team rushed to the area to find the lone young elephant nearby. She was limping on the front limb with obvious lameness. Immobilization, examination and Treatment The elephant was immobilised with 4 mgs of Etorphine in a dan-inject dart from a vehicle. She was darted in the rump and went down on the left flank after 10 minutes. The snare had already come close and fallen off, but the obvious snare wound with limb deformity was evident. The resulting injury was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen Peroxide then doused with tincture of Iodine and covered with wetted green clay. Long acting antibiotics and Dexamethasone were administered parenterally. Reversal Anaesthesia reversal was achieved by administration of 12 mgs of Diprenorphine intravenously. She woke up and moved away slowly. Prognosis Prognosis is good though she will live with left front limb deformity.

4. Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place: GPS:

Treatment of a Sick Elephant Bull 9th November Elephant Male Adult Taita ranch, Tsavo. 37M 0492111 UTM 9592862

History This elephant bull was reported sick by Wildlife Works Rukinga Rangers who also patrol the expansive Taita Ranch. The Vet team rushed to the area to find the huge bull nearby standing still with a distended abdomen. He was reported to be off food since the previous day. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilised with 18 mgs of Etorphine in a dan inject dart from foot. She was darted in the rump and went down on the left flank after 5 minutes. Examination revealed no external wound but a distended and gas filled abdominal cavity. Rectal examination revealed absence of ingester. A preliminary diagnosis of intestinal obstruction and tympani was made. With no specialised equipment to remove the obstruction symptomatic treatment was instituted. Long acting antibiotics and Flunixine Meglumine were administered parenterally. Reversal Anaesthesia reversal was achieved by administration of 48 mgs of Diprenorphine through the ear veins. He woke up and moved away slowly. Prognosis The prognosis was guarded and the elephant bull succumbed that evening and autopsy undertaken the next day confirmed it as obstruction of the large colon possibly caused by dehydration and slowed intestinal motility.

Rescue of an Elephant Calf In Aruba

Date: 11th November 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Female Age: 8 months old Location: Aruba, Tsavo East GPS: 37M 0480021 UTM 9630573 History A report was made by Aruba lodge staff of one elephant calf that was lying down and unable to wake up near Aruba lodge water hole. The family had left her and headed to a water hole. The vet team rushed to the area to find the small elephant lying down in sternal recumbency near the lodge fence. Rescue Examination revealed it was too weak to survive alone so it was rescued and transported to the Voi stockade for treatment and care. He was administered 50 % dextrose bolus IV and a further slow IV lactated ringerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solution through the ear vein. Further administration of long acting Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone was done. He woke up and moved around the enclosure. Due to its tender age the calf was airlifted to Nairobi orphanage for care. He was diagnosed with poor nutrition due to the prevailing drought conditions in Tsavo. Prognosis is guarded.

6. Date: Species: Sex: Age: Place: GPS:

Treatment of an Injured Buffalo 11th November Buffalo Female Adult Along Mzima Pipeline, Tsavo East 37M 0452581 UTM 9632282

History, examination and management A report was received from Voi tourists of a buffalo that was lying down in a shallow water hole along the Mzima water pipeline near park headquarters. The team rushed in to find the recumbent buffalo in the water and unable to wake up. Closer examination revealed that the cow was weak and had deep bite injuries on the perineal area possibly inflicted by hyenas. It appears the buffalo was attacked by hyenas while experiencing dystocia. She was pulled out of the water and later euthanized to relieve her of pain. Death was deemed natural.

Rescue of an Elephant Calf in Aruba

Date: 12th November 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: 6 months old Location: Aruba, Tsavo East GPS: 37M 0480054 UTM 9629412 History Just a day after rescuing a sickly elephant calf near Aruba lodge another report was made by Aruba lodge staff of yet another elephant calf that was nearly submerged in mud inside Aruba lodge water hole. The mother was nearby distressed and trying to figure out how to rescue her calf. The vet team accompanied by the Voi Keepers rushed to rescue the calf. The calf was pulled out of the thick muddy water and mud washed out of the skin. Examination revealed it was in good health. He was released and ran to his mother who was coming closer to rescue him. They both walked away calmly. Prognosis Prognosis is good.

Examination of Elephant Carcasses in Dakota

Date: 22nd November Species: Elephant Sex: Male and Female Age: Adults Location: Dakota, Tsavo East History A report was made by KWS security teams of two elephant carcasses spotted during an aerial recce near Dakota area on the southern tip of Tsavo East Park. The vet team rushed to the area to find two carcasses all aged at more than five days from the time of death. Examination revealed extensive struggles from both the elephants before death in muddy shallow water pools that collected after the recent rains. External examination revealed no injuries. Full autopsy could not be done due to advanced state of autolysis. The deaths were attributed to drought and short rains, once the elephants fell down they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get up due to weakness and slippery ground. All tusks were retrieved and kept by KWS security teams.

Examination of a Recumbent Elephant in Satao

Date: 23rd November 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: 5 years old Location: Aruba, Tsavo East History A report was made by KWS security staff of a young elephant that was lying down and unable to wake up near Voi River downstream from Satao tented camp. The family had left him and he was all alone. The vet team rushed to the area to find the small elephant lying down in lateral recumbency. Examination and Management Examination revealed it was too weak and emaciated with a body score of less than 2/5. He was administered with 50 % Dextrose bolus and Dexamethasone Hcl solution through the ear vein as well as long acting Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone. Several attempts were made to wake him up but all failed as he was too weak to support himself due to effects of drought. A decision was made to euthanize the young bull and reduce suffering due to very poor prognosis. Tusks were removed by KWS security teams.

10. Treatment of a Snared Zebra Date: Species: Sex: Age: Location:

24th November Common Zebra Female Adult Manyani gate, Tsavo east.

History This Zebra was reported by the KWS gate attendants as was lame and walking with a lot of pain. She was easily traced near Manyani gate with a herd of other zebras. Immobilization, examination and treatment The zebra was immobilized using 6 mgs of Etorphine Hcl and 60 mgs of Xylazine in a dan-inject dart from foot using a dan-inject dart gun. She was darted in the rump and went down on the right flank after running for about 5 minutes. Examination revealed a wire snare wound wrapped around the right hind limb damaging the right fetlock joint. The wound was cleaned using water mixed with Hydrogen peroxide and doused with iodine. Oxytetracycline spray was applied and long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs administered parenterally. Reversal Anaesthetic reversal was achieved by the administration of 18 mgs of Diprenorphine Hcl and 2.5 mgs of Atipemazole Hcl IV through the jugular vein. Prognosis Prognosis is guarded

11. Examination of a Recumbent Elephant Near Bachuma Date: 24th November 2016 Species: Loxodanta Africana Sex: Female Age: Young adult Location: Bachuma, Tsavo East History A report was made by KWS security staff of a young elephant that was lying down and unable to wake up near Bachuma gate area south of the park. The vet team rushed to the area to find the elephant was already dead. Examination revealed it was too weak and emaciated with a body score of less than 2/5. Emaciation was due to effects of drought. Tusks were removed by KWS security teams for safe custody.

12. Examination of a Recumbent Elephant Near Voi River Date: 25th November Animal: Elephant Sex: Female Age: Young adult Location: Voi River, Tsavo East GPS: 37M 0503382 UTM 9623861 History and examination A report was made by KWS security staff of a mid-size elephant carcass that was lying dead along Voi River area. The Vet Team arrived at the area to find the elephant was already dead. No external injury marks were seen and there were signs of struggling in the vicinity. Evidence suggested the elephant fell into a muddy clay slippery soil from recent rains and couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get back up. Examination revealed the emaciation was due to the effects of recent drought. Tusks were removed by KWS security teams for safe custody.

13. Examination of a Recumbent Elephant Cow In Dida Harea Date: 26th November Animal: Elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Dida harea, Tsavo East GPS: 37M 0469043 UTM 9624301 History A report was made by KWS security staff of an elephant cow that was lying down and unable to stand, but still alive, between Voi river and Dida Harea area. No family was seen around. The vet team found the cow lying down in lateral recumbency and struggling to get up. Management Ropes were hooked onto her tusks and fastened onto the vet landcruiser. After several attempts, she eventually stood up and walked away calmly. The weakness was linked the effects of drought.

14. Examination of a Recumbent Elephant Cow and Rescue of a Calf Date: 28th November Species: Loxodanta Africana Sex: Female Age: Adult and its calf Location: Mukwaju, Tsavo East GPS: 37M 0502809 UTM 9629440 History A report was made by KWS security staff of an elephant cow that was lying down and unable to stand between Mukwaju area past Satao. She was still alive and had a tiny calf standing beside her. Her family were also seen nearby. The decision was made to rescue the calf as the mother could not supply her with enough milk in her current state. The calf was captured and put in a vehicle. Ropes were hooked onto the motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tusks and fastened onto the vet landcruiser. She was pulled into a sitting position and she stood up searched for her calf and walked away calmly to the bigger herd. The calf was airlifted to DSWT Nairobi orphanage for care. The weakness was linked to effects of drought.

15. Examination of Elephant Carcass Near Satao Date: 28th November Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Satao, Tsavo East History A report was made by KWS security staff of a huge elephant bull carcass that was lying dead along Voi River area near Ndololo camp. The vet team rushed to the area to find the mid-size bull lying down on lateral recumbency and already dead. No external injuries were seen and there were signs of struggling in the vicinity. Opening of the carcass was not done due to advanced stage of decomposition. Tusks were removed by KWS security teams for safe custody. It appears like the elephant fell on slippery soil from recent rains and couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get back up.

Other cases handled by the unit The unit was involved in examination of elephant trophies confiscated from offenders and produced professional reports to be used in court to aid prosecution of offenders. A KWS security dog attached to Ithumba station was treated for bloody diarrhea and anorexia and recovered well.

TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT DECEMBER 2016 The Tsavo Unit was on annual leave during the month of December.

MARA MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2016

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OCTOBER 2016 The month we received near nil precipitation with most of the wildlife out of the reserve and to be found in the surrounding conservancies. Though diminishing, forage is still available for most herbivores within the ecosystem. Cases requiring veterinary intervention were uncharacteristically low with all those attended showing good prognosis. The following cases were handled during the period.

Post Mortem of a Lioness

Date: 7th October 2016 Species: African lion Age: Sub adult Sex: Female Location: Naboisho – Ndonyo Rinka border History The carcass of this lioness was seen by the KWS and Naboisho conservancy rangers on their normal patrols. They had received a report about a pride of lions that broke into a boma killing several sheep and afterwards two carcasses belonging to a male and female lion were seen not far from the killed sheep. They suspected poisoning and requested our services to carry out an autopsy. We responded immediately but were only able to find one carcass belonging to the lioness. The male lion carcass had completely been eaten by hyenas overnight and no remains were found. General observation • The head and all the limbs had been chopped off and taken for custody and evidence by the KWS investigating team. • There was early stage maggot infestation on the carcass. • The carcass was moderately bloated and estimated to be 36-72hrs old. • The lioness appeared to have been in good condition prior to death and her age estimated to be 2 years. • Suspected sheep carcass remains were seen within the vicinity. • On opening the carcass, the following observations were made: • The lungs had undergone advanced autolysis. • The liver and both kidneys had a cooked appearance. • The entire intestinal mucosae was eroded ( both small and large intestines) • The stomach was full with about 3kgs of recently fed on meat from a woolly animal most likely a sheep. • An unusual pinkish stuff was found in the stomach intermingled with the food. • Liver, kidney and stomach contents (with the pinkish stuff) were collected as samples for further analysis at competent laboratories. The same was handed over to KWS crime scene investigation officer for onward transmission and follow up. Conclusion From the pattern of deaths and post-mortem picture, poisoning is suspected to have caused the death of this lioness.

Giraffe with an Arrow

Date: 11th October 2016 Species: Masai giraffe Age: Adult Sex: Male Location: Siana/Olarro conservancy History This giraffe had an arrow sticking out of the right side of its neck and was reported to us by Olarro/Siana conservancy rangers while on their normal patrols. General observation He was in a group of about twenty giraffes, all browsing and in good health. The arrow could be seen sticking on the right side of his neck giving him some degree of discomfort. Immobilization, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of a combination of 12mgs etorphine hydrochloride and 60mgs azaperone delivered in a 3ml daninject dart.Darting was carried out from a vehicle. It took ten minutes for the drugs to take full effect with the giraffe wandering and falling into a shallow dry Lugga. Quick action made sure his head was kept up and whilst the treatment was going on. The resultant wound was debrided with hydrogen peroxide, rinsed with clean water and disinfected with tincture of iodine. Cloxacillin ointment was infused and oxytetracycline wound spray was applied topically. Additional treatments include parenteral administration of 6000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 1500mgs flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory. Reversal Achieved by intravenous administration of 30mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through the jugular vein. He rose up immediately to join his friends. Prognosis Good.

Treatment of a Bull Buffalo with an Arrow

Date: 23rd October 2016 Species: Cape buffalo Age: Adult Sex: Male Location: Musiara area of Masai Mara Reserve History This buffalo in a herd of about 200 was seen with an arrow and reported to us by the warden of Musiara sector, Masai Mara Reserve. General observation This buffalo in a big herd had an arrow sticking from the right side of his flank. His body condition was still good, though there was evidence of pain as he walked around. Immobilization, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of a combination of 7mgs etorphine hydrochloride and 60mgs azaperone in a 3ml daninject dart. Darting was achieved from a vehicle. Drugs took full effect after seven minutes with this buffalo assuming sternal recumbency. Examination revealed that the arrow was barbed and had lodged itself deep into the flank muscles. This arrow was carefully removed and resultant wound debrided with hydrogen peroxide and rinsed with clean water. Tincture of iodine was used to disinfect before cloxacillin ointment being infused. Additional treatments included parenteral administration of 6000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 1000mgs flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory. Reversal Achieved by administration of 18mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through a prominent ear vein. He woke up in three minutes to join other buffaloes. Prognosis Good.

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT NOVEMBER 2016 Introduction The month still did not have very much rain but there were some patches of precipitation in some areas towards the end of the month. All cases reported were attended to which included the rescue of an orphaned baby elephant who had been attacked by a pride of lions and treatment of a cheetah with severe mange, among other cases. The following were cases handled during the period:

Collaring of a Bull Elephant

Date: 9th Nov 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Pardamat conservancy History This lone and massive bull was reported to be terrorising people at the edge of Pardamat Conservancy having on more than one occasion chased people from their homesteads and creating a curfew. With recent events happening in this conservation area involving human elephant conflict and with some human fatalities, the community were threatening to kill this elephant. KWS with the Mara Elephant Project decided to collar this elephant to inform on his movements and avert clashes by preventing him from entering household and farm areas. Immobilization and collaring Restraint was achieved by use of 16mgs Etorphine hydrochloride delivered in a 3ml dan-inject dart from a helicopter with the elephant becoming fully immobilized after ten minutes. A quick examination revealed he was in good body condition and estimated to be 40 years of age. A GSM /Satellite collar was deployed and morphometric measurements taken before the anaesthetic was reversed after which he was driven deep into the Conservancy.

Examination of a Male Lion

Date: 21st November 2016 Species: African lion Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Hammer kop area (Masai Mara Reserve) History This male lion was seen with his brother and four adult females by a tour guide who reported that one of the males was severely limping. They requested the Vet Unit services for assessment and possible intervention. General observation This pride of lions was found lying close to a Lugga in a shade close to a kill. Both of the males would not easily stand and move to confirm their health status but eventually we found both to be in good shape. Neither of them had a limp. All the females were also found to be sound. It was thought, the reported limping was a temporary sprain while hunting which healed almost immediately. Closer examination of the carcass revealed it was an elephant calf, about two to three years whose sex could not be determined because much of it had been eaten. There was evidence of a fierce fight between the lions and what appeared to be the mother of the calf as the scene showed massive shrub destruction by elephants probably trying to stop the lions from snatching the calf. Both tusks of the calf were intact and were retrieved and taken by county security team for safe custody and accounting.

Treatment of a Warthog Piglet

Date: 23rd November 2016 Species: Warthog Sex: Male Age: Juvenile Location: Kichwa Tembo History This baby warthog was seen with a plastic band round his right hind leg at the fetlock joint by The Ann K Taylor anti-snaring team and reported to the unit for action. The piglet was around three months old and with his mother and two other piglets. Immobilisation, examination and treatment The piglet was tranquilized by use of 7mgs Azaperone delivered remotely through a 1.5ml dan-inject dart from foot. It took ten minutes for him to be calm upon which the mother was temporarily scared away and the piglet taken for treatment. The band was removed with the resultant wound washed with copious amount of water, debrided with Hydrogen peroxide, wiped dry with gauze swab before tincture of Iodine was applied. Additional treatment included parenteral administration of 450mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic and 6mgs Dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory. He remained calm for one hour under careful watch of the team after which he regained full consciousness and was released to join his mother. Prognosis Good.

Examination of a Dead Bull Elephant

Date: 23rd November 2016 Species: African elephant Age: Sub adult Sex: Male Location: Sanguriai (Mara Triangle) GPS; 36M 0721604 UTM 9853952 History This elephant was found dead with no visible injuries by Mara Triangle security team. They sought the Vet Unit services to determine its cause of death. It was reported that he was part of a herd that were crossing the Mara Triangle. General examination • Carcass had been scavenged by hyenas and vultures. • This elephant appeared severely emaciated with bony prominences evident. • Little ingested material seen in gastrointestinal tract. • Carcass was severely pale and dehydrated. • Though much of the carcass had been eaten rendering it ineligible for meaningful and conclusive postmortem, there was evidence of prolonged debility. Conclusion This elephant could have died of debility caused by undetermined chronic condition which caused anemia among other pathologies.

Rescue of an Elephant Calf

Date: 25th November 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Male Age: Calf Location: Olare Motorogi Conservancy History This baby elephant was about 4 years old and appeared to have been orphaned sometime back. However, for unknown reasons, he refused to join or was not accepted into other elephant herds and has frequently been seen within the conservancy alone. On 23rd of this month, he was attacked by a pride of lions but managed to escape with injuries to his back and the loss of his tail. This prompted the Olare-Motorogi Conservancy Management and Mahali Mzuri Camp Management to request our services for treatment and advice on the way forward. The Vet Unit found the calf with the lion injuries as well as another injury to his right hind foot. All the wounds were septic and after thorough deliberations, it was felt that this elephant had to be rescued after treatment as he was still vulnerable to predators.

Immobilization and treatment Restraint was achieved by tranquilization with 70mgs Azaperone delivered through a 1.5ml dan-inject dart from foot. It took ten minutes for the calf to calm down. All the wounds were cleaned with copious amount of water and all necrotic tissue trimmed. Hydrogen peroxide was applied to remove any remaining necrotic tissue before tincture of Iodine was used as a disinfectant. Finally Oxytetracycline spray was applied topically. An additional 30mgs Azaperone was given to this calf before he was loaded onto a plane that airlifted him to the Nairobi DSWT elephant orphanage for further treatment, management and care.

Treatment of a Cheetah For Mange

Date: 25th November 2016 Species: Cheetah Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Lookout (Masai Mara National Reserve) History This lone male cheetah was seen by the Mara county security team on their patrols with severe mange. They called the veterinary unit for action. The cheetah was found beside a thicket and had recently eaten a baby impala. The Mara-Meru Cheetah Project and Cheetah Forever teams were waiting close by and stayed to guide us to his location. The entire neck and his belly were becoming alopecic because of mange. However, his overall body condition was fare as his ability to hunt was not impaired Treatment The team decided to treat him with Ivermectin parasiticide by delivering 15mgs of Ivermectin remotely using 1.5ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle. This was done successfully and the next such treatment will be carried out in the next 14-21 days. Meanwhile, the rangers on the ground were advised to watch over him and report his progress. Prognosis Good.

Elephant De-collaring

Date: 26th November 2016 Species: African elephant: Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Ndonyo Rinka History This elephant was collared earlier in the year in collaboration between KWS and WWF aimed at helping manage and monitor elephants for security purposes. However, this collar failed soon after deployment and an agreement was reached to replace this collar with all partners including Mara Elephant Project participating. Immobilization and collar replacement Immobilization was achieved by use of 16mgs Etorphine hydrochloride delivered through a 1.5ml dan-inject dart from a helicopter with the drugs taking full effect after seven minutes. After stabilizing this elephant, the old ineffective collar was removed and replaced with a new GSM/Satellite collar and it was confirmed to be working before the anesthetic was reversed. Reversal Reversal of the anaesthetic was achieved by administration of 36mgs Diprenorphine hydrochloride through a prominent ear vein. He got up after three minutes after reversal to join the rest of the herd.

MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT DECEMBER 2016 Introduction The area experienced a dry spell that lasted almost the entire month with resultant decrease in forage and readily available water for wildlife. Most ungulates were seen aggregating close to swampy areas which are drying up quickly. Most elephants have moved to the surrounding conservancies with several predator conflict cases involving lions and domestic sheep and goats reported. One lone sub adult lioness was hungry and emaciated and had to be relocated after camping next to a livestock shed in a community area having killed sheep. The following cases were handled during the month;

Treatment of an injured elephant cow

Date: 6th Dec 2016 Species: African elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Olare Motorogi conservancy History This elephant, who appeared to be the matriarch of the family, was spotted with a swollen ventral abdominal area by the Olare Motorogi rangers who informed their management who in turn called the Vet unit for help. It was reported that the elephants had just recently migrated to the Conservancy. This elephant was in a group of about ten elephants and was nursing a four-year-old calf. Her entire ventral abdomen was swollen, extending from sternum all the way to the vulva. The vulval lips were swollen and slightly evaginated. A small wound suspected to have been caused by an arrow was seen ventrally slightly behind the left teat. Immobilization, examination and treatment Restraint was achieved chemically by use of 15mgs Etorphine hydrochloride delivered in a 1.5ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle.The drugs took effect after eight minutes with this elephant assuming right lateral recumbency. Other members of the family were highly protective and driven away to give room for this matriarch to be attended to. Closer examination revealed she had an injury to her left ventral thoracic area which was septic with purulent material accumulating. The extended ventral swelling was purulent material and tissue reaction due to the injury. All this extended to the vulva. Luckily, micturition functions were not interfered with as the urethra and vulval opening were patent. The opening of the injury was surgically extended and a lot of pus drained. Much of the necrotic tissues were removed and an arrow head retrieved. The injury occurred approximately two weeks prior and from the damage observed, this could have been a poisoned arrow. Another opening was created further ventrally for maximum drainage of pus. The wounds were debrided with Hydrogen peroxide to remove as much of the pus and necrotic tissue as possible. Clean water was then used to rinse before flushing with tincture of iodine. Additional treatment included 200mgs Dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory, half the dose given intravenously and the remainder half given intramuscularly. She also received 30000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic given intramuscularly. Reversal Reversal of the anaesthetic was achieved by intravenous administration of a combination of 30mgs Diprenorphine hydrochloride and 150mgs Naltrexone intravenously through a prominent ear vein. She woke up in three minutes to join the other family members. The Conservancy management was tasked to monitor this elephant and report progress with possibilities of repeat treatment depending on the response. Prognosis Fair.

Relocation and treatment of a problematic lioness

Date: 8th Dec 2016 Species: African lion Age: Sub adult Sex: Female Location: Aitong History This lone lioness was reported to have entered a livestock boma the night of the 7th December and killed a sheep though it was chased away before feeding on it. With recent spiraling cases of predation of domestic animals in the surrounding areas by lions, the villagers were irate and wanted to kill the lioness. She had not moved far but took refuge in a small shrub close to the boma and KWS security personnel called the unit for intervention. Capture, treatment and re-location She was located in a small thicket at a Lugga alone and emaciated. Clearly she appeared to have a problem and hungry.She was immobilized by use of a combination of 4mgs Medetomidine and 150mgs Ketamine hydrochloride. It took seven minutes for her to be fully anaesthetized and immediate examination revealed she had not fed for some time and she had a suspected spear injury to her left hip. The septic wound was debrided with reconstituted Hydrogen peroxide and rinsed with clean water. This was then wiped with gauze swab before tincture of Iodine and Cloxacillin ointment were infused. Additional treatments included parenteral administration of 14mgs dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory and 2250mgs amoxicillin antibiotic. She also received 40mgs ivermectin parasiticide subcutaneously. She was identified to belong to the Off Beat pride of lions in Mara North Conservancy and had strayed away from the rest of the pride. Shewas placed in a cage and transported under anaesthesia to the location of the pride where she was offloaded and the anaesthetic reversed. She woke up after 15 minutes with the Mara North Rangers being tasked to watch over her until she became strong enough to join her pride. Prognosis. Good with feeding.

Treatment of a speared ostrich

Date: 10th Dec 2016 Species: Masai Ostrich Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Makaria area (Masai Mara National Reserve) History This Ostrich with a spear head sticking from his rear abdomen was seen by visiting tourists. They requested help from the Unit and notified the reserve security team who were part of the search team. They also lent a hand in handling during treatment. This ostrich was alone and appeared to be in severe pain choosing to lie down frequently. He was bleeding from the spear wound with the spear head protruding from his abdomen. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 4mgs Etorphine hydrochloride and 4mgs Medetomidine delivered in a 1.5ml dan-inject dart from a vehicle. It took ten minutes for the drugs to take full effect and the ostrich was approached and restrained physically when he became wobbly. The spear head dropped out on capture leaving a penetrating wound from the right part of the lower rear abdomen exiting on the left side. The spear caused partial damage to the cloaca with bloody discharge by the ostrich on attempt to defecate. The wounds were flushed with sterile water and all the bleeders ligated. Tincture of Iodine disinfectant was applied and wounds closed with chromic cat gut suture. Cloxacillin antibiotic ointment was also infused into the wounds. Additional treatment included parenteral administration of 3000mgs Amoxicillin antibiotic. Reversal Reversal of the anaesthetic was achieved by administration of a combination of 15mgs Atepamezole hydrochloride and 75mgs Naltrexone intramuscularly. He got up after fifteen minutes and walked away. Prognosis Guarded. He had lost a lot of blood and showed some degree of anaemia.

De-snaring of a zebra

Date: 11th Dec 2016 Species: Common zebra Sex: Male Age: Young adult Location: Kawai (Trans Mara) History Members of Ann K. Taylor De-snaring team found this zebra with a plain wire snare round his neck while on their normal duties. This young male was seen grazing with a group of other zebras in a community area. A shiny plain wire was seen round his neck. He was dragging the loose part which hindered his movement and feeding. He also appeared stressed and nervous. Immobilization and de-snaring The zebra was restrained by use of a combination of 5mgs Etorphine hydrochloride and 50mgs Azaperone delivered in a 1.5ml dan-inject dart. It took five minutes for the drugs to take full effect with the zebra assuming right lateral recumbency. Examination revealed this was a plain wire snare that was tight on his neck but without injuries. It could have been in place for less than a week. The wire was removed and without any noticeable injuries, the anaesthetic was reversed. Reversal Reversal of the anaesthetic was achieved by intravenous administration of a combination of 50mgs Naltrexone and 12mgs Diprenorphine through the jugular vein. He woke up after four minutes to join the rest who were grazing nearby.

MERU MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2016

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OCTOBER 2016 Introduction This report describes activities of the Meru veterinary unit in northern Kenya in October 2016. Many areas continue to experience drought due to scarce water and feed resources and increased pressure on wildlife health. During this month the following clinical interventions were carried out: treatment of a white rhino for cutaneous filariasis, a speared elephant was immobilized to remove the spear and treat the resulting wound and a Grevys zebra was immobilized to attend to injury on its leg. An elephant calf with a deformed leg and traumatic wounds was rescued for further treatment at the Nairobi David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust orphanage.

Cutaneous filariasis in a White Rhino

Date: 10th October 2016 Species: White rhino Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Meru national park History The warden in charge of rhino in Meru National Park requested for treatment of a white rhino with a skin infection suspected to have been caused by filarial parasites. The wound had grown progressively over one month and treatment was required to prevent wound infection by bacteria. Cutaneous filariasis, a parasitic skin condition, has been reported in many white rhinos in Meru National Park. Interventions in white rhino include parenteral administration of antibiotics although the condition is selflimiting in the black rhino. Chemical immobilization and examination An initial attempt at foot darting was unsuccessful after the dart failed to discharge its content. Darting was later achieved from a helicopter. For immobilization we used a combination of CaptivonÂŽ 5mg and azaperone 60mg in 1.5cc DanInject dart syringe with a 2.2 Ă&#x2014; 60mm needle. Darting site was the left rump and induction time was 7 minutes. Examination showed ulcerative cutaneous wounds with serrated edges undermined by pockets of pus. Wounds emitted a foul smell due to tissue necrosis caused by bacterial infection. These wounds are characteristic of cutaneous filariasis. Treatment and prognosis i. Thorough wash with water, dilute hydrogen peroxide and debridement of necrotic tissue. Tincture of Iodine soaked in gauze swabs was the applied ii. 1% Ivermectin 300mg administered subcutaneously iii. 20% Oxytetracycline administered intramuscularly Anesthesia effects were reversed within 3 minutes of intravenous injection of Naltrexone Hcl 150mg. 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.

Treatment and Rescue of an Elephant Calf

Date: 17th October 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Juvenile (less than 3 months) Location: Meru National Park History Tour guides from Elsaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kopje reported an elephant calf showing severe lameness on its left hind limb. It was in a herd of 17 elephants and was struggling to keep up with the rest of the herd. Observation showed a deformed limb with a wound on the foot pad. Treatment was required to prevent wound infection. Capture and examination To capture the calf for examination we immobilized the mother using CaptivonÂŽ delivered in a DanInject dart. After 7 minutes when its mother was immobilized, the calf was physically restrained using a rope. Examination showed a disproportionate short left limb and malformed foot pad. The cause of this deformity could not be immediately established. There was a wound on the distal extremity of this leg caused by rubbing against the ground when walking. Management of this wound required confinement and dressing which could be achieved in a captive facility. After a few days of observation and the calf being left further behind the herd, the decision was made to rescue it to be taken to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust orphanage for treatment and nurture.

Treatment of a Sub Adult Elephant

Date: 29th October 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: 10 years Location: Meru National Park History An elephant showing severe lameness on its left forelimb was found during routine patrol in the park by the veterinary team. The affected leg was swollen and oozed pus on the elbow joint. This elephant which was unable to keep up with the rest of the herd was immobilized for treatment immediately. Chemical immobilization and examination The elephant was immobilized using CaptivonÂŽ delivered in a 1.5cc DanInject dart with a 2.2 Ă&#x2014; 60mm needle into the gluteal muscles. Down time was 4 minutes with the elephant falling on right lateral recumbency. Examination revealed a spear head 30 centimeters long which had punctured dorsally into the shoulder muscles exiting cranially and ventrally at the elbow. The wound caused by this spear was infected by bacteria and had caused necrosis of skin and muscle tissue. The spear is suspected to have been laced with poison. Treatment and prognosis First, the spear was carefully removed avoiding further injury. Wounds were thoroughly washed with soap and water and necrotic tissue flushed out using dilute hydrogen peroxide and rinsed. Povidone iodine was applied. High doses of long acting antibiotic and analgesic drugs were injected. Later anesthesia was reversed by intravenous injection of Naltrexone. This animal has a guarded prognosis for recovery. It appears the injury was long standing and infection appears deep seated. Further monitoring and treatment is recommended.

Lion Collaring

Date: 30th October 2016 Species: Lion Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Meru National Park History On 30th October 2016, a satellite collar was fitted on a lion in Meru National Park. This activity was carried out as part of the KWS lion monitoring program in the park. This collar will provide baseline information on home ranges, daily movement patterns of this lion and interactions with other groups. 5.

Treatment of an Injured Grevys Zebra

Date: 1st November 2016 Species: Grevy zebra Sex: Female Age: Juvenile Location: Samburu national reserve History This injured Grevys zebra was reported by rangers in Samburu national reserve on 31st October. It had suffered injuries on its front legs causing severe lameness and oozing blood from a puncture wound. Immediate veterinary attention was required to safe it. Chemical immobilization and examination A combination of CaptivonÂŽ and azaperone was used for immobilization, darting was done on foot. This zebra appeared to be in great pain and did not move when we darted. It fell onto sternal recumbency after 3 minutes. For examination it was positioned on left lateral recumbency. Puncture wounds and claw marks were observed on the shoulder and brisket indicating predation attempt. The puncture wounds oozed blood. On manipulation of the right elbow joint crepitus was felt which together with joint instability suggested a fracture. On the left elbow was a big open wound with missing skin tissue. These injuries are consistent with attempted predation by large carnivores. Management This animal suffered debilitating injuries on its legs and was unable to move to watering points or to feed. Euthanasia by gunshot in the head was performed to relieve suffering.

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT NOVEMBER 2016 Introduction This report describes activities of the Meru veterinary unit in northern Kenya in November 2016. Wildlife habitat in the Northern Area has rejuvenated following the beginning of the rainy season in November after a prolonged dry spell. This has relieved pressure from livestock on grazing and watering points and also incidences of Human Wildlife Conflict. During this period the unit attended to the following cases:

Lameness in a Bull Elephant

Date: 12th November 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Ol Jogi Conservancy History Scouts on patrol reported an elephant showing severe lameness at the boundary of Mpala and Ol Jogi Conservancies on 31st October 2016. A subsequent effort to track the elephant for treatment was unsuccessful until 12/11/2016 when it was reported by KWS rangers on patrol in Ol Jogi Conservancy. Following this report the elephant was immobilized for treatment. Immobilization, examination and treatment A helicopter was provided by the DSWT to dart this elephant. CaptivonÂŽ 20mg was delivered in a 3cc Dan-Inject dart to the dorsal lumbar muscles and the anesthetic took effect within 5 minutes. The elephant was examined on left lateral recumbence after dousing the injury with plenty of water and covering its eyes with the ear flap. Examination showed a puncture wound approximately 1 centimeter in diameter penetrating into the carpal joint. On probing with forceps, the wound was more than 15 centimeters deep. These findings are consistent with gunshot injury although there was no exit point. The wound was cleaned and the necrotic tissue removed with Hydrogen peroxide and application of topical antiseptic. The elephant was then administered with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drugs. Prognosis Prognosis for this case is guarded due to the involvement of the joint. Our recommendation is that the elephant should be monitored closely to assess its response to treatment.

Trunk Injury to a Cow Elephant

Date: 12th November 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Ol Donyiro community land History Scouts from Samburu Trust reported an elephant with an injury and deformity of its trunk which prevented it from normal feeding or drinking. Closer observation of this elephant to determine the extent of injury was difficult because it was in a herd. KWS rangers in Ol Donyiro out post patrolled the area and located the elephant on the 12th November. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved using Captivon® delivered in a 1.5cc Dan-Inject dart from a helicopter provided by DSWT. The dart was placed into the dorsal gluteal muscles after a brief chase into open ground. The first dart failed and a second dart was administered 20 minutes later which was effective and the elephant which fell into a ‘dog sitting’ posture and was tipped to left lateral recumbence for examination. Examination showed a perforation on the mid ventral aspect of its trunk. This was an old wound which had healed with red scar tissue formation and deformity of the trunk. The cause of this traumatic injury could not be established. No treatment was required. Antibiotics were administered to manage risk of infection due to immobilization stress. Prognosis We expect that this elephant will adapt to the deformity of its trunk.

Lameness in a Lioness

Date: 13th November 2016 Species: Lion Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Meru National Park History Field researchers in Meru National Park reported a lioness showing lameness on its right forelimb. It also had a malfunctioning collar which required replacement. The Vet Unit were called to immobilize this lioness to investigate the cause of lameness and replace the satellite collar. Immobilization, examination and treatment A combination of Ketamine and Medetomidine delivered in a Dan-Inject dart provided effective anesthesia. Full sedation was attained 9 minutes after darting. A blind fold was applied to prevent visual stimulation and the animal was positioned on lateral recumbence for examination and treatment. This lioness was in good body condition. A minor laceration was noted on the medial claw of the left forelimb which was treated by cleaning and application of Iodine antiseptic. Examination of the right eye showed blindness caused by a collapsed eyeball suspected to have been caused by trauma. No eye discharge was seen. It was treated by application of topical antibiotic eye ointment. Prognosis Good

Review of Elephant Treated for Spear Injury

Date: 13th November 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Sub adult Location: Meru National Park This elephant was initially examined and treated by the Meru Vet Unit on 29th October for spear inflicted injuries to its left shoulder muscle. Follow up treatment was done by Dr. Njoroge on 4th November 2016. An assessment on 13th November showed extensive necrosis of the skin and soft tissue around the left scapula and neck. Although its body condition had deteriorated, this animal could move to the watering point and browse. We were hopeful that this elephant would recover from the debilitating injury. On 21st November, this elephant succumbed to injuries from the suspected poison laced spear. Its tusks were retrieved for preservation at the KWS armory. 5.

Snare Removal from a Zebra

Date: 23rd November 2016 Species: Common zebra Sex: Female Age: Adult Location: Aberdares Country Club History A common zebra in the Aberdares Country Club suffered severe lameness caused by a wire snare around its right front leg. The snare had cut through the soft tissue of the fetlock joint. KWS senior warden in the Aberdares National Park requested for immediate attention to remove this snare. Immobilization, examination and management Immobilization was achieved by darting from a vehicle using a combination of CaptivonÂŽ and Azaperone delivered in a Dan-Inject dart into the gluteal muscles. After 4 minutes the zebra fell onto sternal recumbency and was tipped to left lateral recumbence and a blindfold applied for examination. Examination revealed that the wire snare caused fetlock joint disarticulation and infection, coronary band necrosis and loss of the hoof. Considering the debilitating injury caused by the snare, we recommended euthanasia to relieve pain and suffering of this zebra.

MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT DECEMBER 2016 Introduction This report describes activities of the Meru Veterinary unit in Northern Kenya in December 2016. The unit attended to many wild animal species including injured elephants in Mpala Conservancy and Samburu national reserve, a white rhino calf in Lewa, sick bongos at Mount Kenya Game Ranch, snare removal on a buffalo and relocation of a crocodile at Meru national park and a zebra in Westgate Conservancy. The Meru veterinary unit is supported by the David Sheldrick Trust to provide veterinary care in northern Kenya.

Black rhino necropsy

Date: 5th Dec 2016 Species: Black rhino Sex: Female Age: Adult (41 years) Location: Lewa wildlife conservancy History An old female black rhino in Lewa wildlife conservancy (LWC) showed progressive loss of body condition, emaciation and difficulty standing up. Attempts to provide supplementary feeds were not successful. On the 04/12/16 the female was found recumbent and unable to stand on its feet despite prodding by rangers. On 05/12/16 the rhino was found dead and a post mortem was carried out. Necropsy showed gelatinization of subcutaneous fat and skeletal muscle due to starvation. Molar teeth were worn out. No other significant findings were seen. The cause of death was suspected to be complications from old age. No images available 2.

Snared buffalo

Date: 8th Dec 2016 Species: Buffalo Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Meru national park History KWS rangers on patrol near Murera airstrip reported a buffalo which was limping and had a wire snare on its right hind leg which needed to be removed. Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by using a combination of Captivon and Azaperone. The buffalo went down in four minutes in left lateral recumbence. A plain wire snare had cut through the coronary band of the left hoof causing a wound. The distal part of the leg was also swollen. The snare was removed by cutting with a wire cutter and pulling it out. Topical antibiotics and green clay were applied to the wound. The buffalo was also give long lasting antibiotics. Prognosis This injury has a good prognosis for recovery.

Treatment of an elephant with gunshot injury

Date: 11th December 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Mpala conservancy History On 10/12/16 rangers from Mpala conservancy reported an elephant which showed severe lameness and swelling of its left forelimb. A veterinary assessment was carried out on 11/12/16 to determine the cause and extent of injury. Immobilization, treatment and examination Immobilization was achieved using CaptivonÂŽ delivered in a 3cc Dan-Inject dart. The elephant was trailed on foot and the dart placed into the gluteal muscles. It went down in six minutes and rolled onto right lateral recumbence for examination and treatment. Examination showed a puncture wound into the medial aspect of the left carpal joint. On probing the wound with forceps, necrotic tissue, pus and clear watery discharge were found. The wound was more than 15 centimeters deep penetrating into the carpal joint with suspected bone fracture. These findings are consistent with gunshot injury. Treatment consisted of wound debridement using Hydrogen peroxide to remove necrotic tissue and application of Povidone iodine to manage deep bacterial infection. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered by intramuscular route to prevent spread of infection. Prognosis Prognosis for recovery is guarded due to suspected bone involvement. Bone fractures in elephants are difficult to manage due to massive weight on the bone and unresponsive bacterial infection.

Relocation of a crocodile

Date: 12th Dec 2016 Capture site: Fish pond Kanjo Release site: Meru national park History A fish farmer reported that a crocodile had strayed into his farm from a nearby river and was causing losses on its fish. An assessment showed a young crocodile about one meter long. The crocodile was restrained physically and relocated to Mulika river in Meru national park.

Injured white rhino in Lewa Conservancy

Date: 14th Dec 2016 Species: White rhino Name: Tumbiliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calf 9 (ID 2604) Sex: Female Age: 2 years Location: Lewa wildlife conservancy History On 13/12/16 a white rhino calf was reported to have been attacked by an adult male and severely injured on its left forelimb. Observation on 14/12/16 showed leg carrying lameness and slight swelling of the affected leg. Immobilization and examination A combination of CaptivonÂŽ 1.5mg and Azaperone Hcl 30mg was used for anesthesia. Darting was done from a vehicle with the dart placed into the gluteal muscles and the rhino going down in eight minutes. A blindfold was applied and the rhino rolled to right lateral recumbence for examination and examination. Lacerations were observed to the ventral aspect of abdomen. On manipulation of the affected left forelimb, crepitus was felt at the elbow joint. Injury was tentatively diagnosed as elbow joint dislocation and/or fracture. Case management and prognosis Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drugs were administered by intramuscular route. Naltrexone hydrochloride was administered intravenously to reverse effect of the anesthesia. Because of the location of injury, it was difficult to reduce and fix the affected bones. Therefore, confinement and care in a boma was recommended. In the following two days observations showed its health was deteriorating, it was moving around and straining the affected leg. This rhino was darted and transported to a boma on 16/12/16. Attempts to radiograph the affected part to determine the extent of injury were not successful. A guarded prognosis was made. In the boma the rhinos health continued to deteriorate. Observations on 20/12/16 showed it was depressed, had lost body condition, prolonged periods of recumbency and off feed for 5 days. Euthanasia was recommended. Post mortem findings Condylar fracture of the left humerus with displacement of the cubital joint

Wounded elephant

Date: 18/12/2016 Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Samburu national reserve History Researchers from Save the Elephants (STE) found this injured elephant bull during routine patrol in Samburu national reserve (SNR). Its presence in SNR had not been recorded in the last two years and was assumed to have migrated there recently. The bull had pus discharge from the medial aspect of the left forelimb distal to the carpal joint and favoured this leg. The cause of this wound could not be established immediately. It was immobilized for examination and treatment on 18/12/16. Immobilization and case management Immobilization was achieved using CaptivonÂŽ administered by a 3cc Dan-Inject dart into the gluteal muscles from a vehicle. After darting the elephant moved a short distance and fell into a shallow mud pool after eight minutes in a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dog sittingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sternal posture. In this position its breathing was severely compromised. As a result of weight on its hind legs the hip joint was at a risk of fracture due to splayed legs. The anesthesia had to be reversed immediately to avoid further deterioration on the health of this elephant. No treatment was administered; however, the STE will monitor and update on its progress in due course.

Bongo health assessment

History Mount Kenya game ranch (MKGR) is a captive bongo breeding facility which aims to rehabilitate bongo and reintroduce them to their natural habitat.Two bongos were reported to sick in MKGR on 18/12/16. The sick animals showed submandibular edema, severe diarrhea, weakness and a rapid loss in body condition. Animals did not respond to anthelmintic and antibiotic treatment. On 20/12/16 we collected fecal and blood samples for parasitological and hematological analysis from two sick individuals and two apparently healthy individuals. Laboratory results will guide further treatment.

Injured Grevys zebra foal

Date: 21/12//2016 Age: 3 months Location: West Gate conservancy History Security officer in West Gate Conservancy reported a Grevys zebra with a wound to the left shoulder and severe lameness for the last five days. A veterinary assessment and treatment was carried out on 21/12/16 Immobilization, examination and treatment Chemical restraint was achieved using CaptivonÂŽ 1.5 mg and Azaperone 20mg delivered in a 1.5 cc Dan-Inject dart. The dart was placed into the gluteal muscles and the zebra went down in 4 minutes. Examination showed a puncture wound dorsally into the left scapula with copious amount pus discharge. The wounds were cleaned and debrided using Hydrogen peroxide and topical application of Iodine. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were injected by intramuscular route. This foal was found in company of its dam and was in good body condition. It is expected to make a complete recovery in the coming days.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VET UNIT REPORT OCTOBER, NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2016

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT OCTOBER 2016 Introduction North West of Mt. Kilimanjaro on the border with Tanzania lies Amboseli National Park. A large concentration of wildlife lives here in the dry season making Amboseli a popular tourist destination. Among the wildlife habitats in the National Park are open plains, acacia woodland, rocky thorn bush country, swamp and marshland together with a temporary lake. This vegetation is what gives animals reprieve especially during the dry season. There has been relatively few human-wildlife incidences reported this month though the team did treat one elephant with an arrow wound, a snared of lion and a snared giraffe. The following are veterinary activities within the conservation area during the month:

Surveillance at Namerok Springs During the rainy season the spring drains all the way to Amboseli National Park about 20km away. The spring is largely used for horticulture irrigation on a small scale by the farmers within the locality growing vegetables for own subsistence and local sales. Water is directed to the farms by use of fallows/channels some with concrete lining and others without resulting to wastage. However, during the dry season the water is seemingly not enough for community domestic use. These irrigated farms lie within the corridor between Kimana Sanctuary and Amboseli National Park. This encroachment has persistently been the result of human â&#x20AC;&#x201C;wildlife conflict as animals especially elephants raid farm crops on their either way. Traces of fences are still evident with presence of standing posts but with no wires. It is believed that if the fences were maintained properly such occurrences could be non-existent. The source of the spring is protected by a brick wall perimeter which is poorly maintained as it has a gap through which cattle access the source and degrade its condition as they drink and graze. An important solution ought to be the construction of water troughs outside the spring source perimeter wall for animals to drink from, and maintenance of crop farm fences to avert human-wildlife conflict.

Surveillance within Amboseli National Park Throughout the month the Amboseli Unit did a lot of surveillance within and around Amboseli National Park. The team visited the famous Tim who was in the company of 10 males all of which were in good health. Meshanani Gate is the furthest point of park entry from the Park Headquarters. The area is far away from Enkongo swamps and other permanent swamps making it relatively dry compared to areas near the swamps. The team visited the area and found it to be very dry due to the poor rainy season. There were few wild and domestic animals browsing and grazing on drying plants. The team also visited Lake Amboseli which has been dry for much of the year. It floods during years of heavy rainfall. Tracks of wild animals and their droppings is evidence that animals traverse through the Pleistocene lake basin. Others are unfortunate and die along these trucks and the team found carcasses that had been eaten by predators, making determination of cause of death impossible. The swamps and plains are still green enough to provide food and water for many herbivores including many hippos, buffalos, elephant and other grazers.

Treatment of an injured elephant

Date: 5th October 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Sub adult Location: Umani spring area; Chyulu History The elephant was initially spotted by Umani Rangers on 28th September this year within the thick Kibwezi forest, only to disappear before veterinary assistance was offered. It resurfaced near Umani springs still severely lame as spotted and reported by same the rangers. Quick intervention was sought by air lifting the from Amboseli National Park using DSWT light aircraft to the Chyulus where DSWT helicopter was waiting in order to facilitate easy fast and effective darting.He was found under the tree canopy resting, under keen watch of three Umani rangers. Immobilization Narcosis was effected by use of 14mgs Etorphine in 3cc dart filled with 1000I.U Hyalase. The elephant was forced to move out of the thick shrubs by the helicopter from which darting was done. It was darted as he closed the dusty road. He was maintained on visual at the edge of the dusty road and was down on right lateral recumbence in six minutes.

Examination He was slightly emaciated and severely lame on the right fore limb. At the lateral right humerus bony prominence was a half centimeter diameter penetrating creamy pus oozing wound. It was pronged but was shallow only holding about 20cc fluid by volume. At the same limb fetlock, joint area laterally was a shallow septic maggot infested wound about10cms in diameter. At the left ear at lower third margin distally was another shallow pus covered wound about 12cms diameter on the inner side. The shallow wounds could have caused by blunt trauma while the penetrating one appeared to have been caused by an arrow. Treatment The wounds were attended to one after the other all receiving similar attention. Each was cleaned with copious amount of Hydrogen Peroxide allowing enough effervescence to remove as much dead tissue as possible. Then each was flushed with Tincture of Iodine adlibitumly. The penetrating wound was slightly deep just accommodating about 20cc of fluid by volume but just on humerus lateral prominence. The two shallow wounds were generously topically covered by 20mgs ivermectin to get rid of maggots where possible while the shoulder one was infiltrated with one tube of Cloxacillin cream. All were then smeared with wet green clay to enhance epithelialization.Systemically it was injected with 30000mgs Tetracycline and 50mgs Flunixin Meglumine into different muscle sites. The right eye was infiltrated with one tube of Cloxacillin cream and so was dart wound on the longismus muscle. Prognosis This is fair to guarded considering that the arrow used could have been raced with poison. Sepsis could have extended to joint tissue by the time treatment was conducted.

De-snaring of a lion

Date: 10th October 2016 Species: Lion Sex: Male Age: Sub adult Location: Community area outside Ndera Conservancy in Tana Delta History It was spotted and reported by community members and confirmed by Northern Rangeland Trust rangers in Issak Bin Conservancy on the 9th October. The vet was flown there by the DWST light aircraft from Karuku, picked by the conservancy ground team and taken to where the lion was snared (tethered) in the community area using winch wire. Immobilization It was sedated using 150mgs Ketamine and 1.5mg Medetomidine in 1.5cc dart. Darting was completed on foot because it was in a thicketed area where vehicles could not access. It was fully sedated in four minutes and blindfolded using a towel. It was placed on right lateral recumbence to assess the snare damage. Examination A foul smell was emanating from the snared left hind limb wound. It was observed that the winch snare was anchored onto a tree branch resulting to tether-like action on the snared lion. Snare wire was just below the hock joint from where the lion had self-mutilated the rest of the limb as it tried to remove the snare. Exposed metatarsus joint bone components were evident of the trauma suffered giving an indication of an amputated limb. The wounds were heavily infested with maggots meaning the animal had been trapped for more than a week without food or water. This was also depicted by emaciation and dehydration of the animal. Prognosis Due to poor prognosis the animal was euthanized using 2000mgs Sodium Pentobarbital intracardial to eliminate suffering. Trophies were secured by the KWS Garsen Post of Tana Delta Station for safe custody and onward transmission.

Treatment of an injured elephant calf

Date: 10th October 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Calf Location: Tsavo East National Park History The elephant was spotted and reported by DSWT Tsavo East de-snaring team as having difficulties in walking caused by a swelling on the left hind limb knee joint. The Amboseli Vet Unit was within the Tsavo East having responded to another case concerning a snared lion in Tana Delta. The Vet was flown from Tana Delta to Voi airstrip by DSWT aircraft to connect with DSWT ground teams. Immobilization It was darted with 1.5mgs Etorphine in 1.5cc dart filled with 500I.U Hyalase. Vehicle darting was used and the elephant was within a family of ten individuals. The dart landed on the right gluteal muscle; he was slowly limping on the left hind limb. The aim was to immediately chase the other family members to a safe distance immediately after the calf went down following narcosis. It was fully immobilized in five minutes assuming right lateral recumbence.Promptly thefamily members were chased away using one vehicle as the other vehicle remained to safeguard the vet team. The left ear was used as blind fold and trunk was kept patent with aid of a piece of stick across distal open end. Examination The left hind limb had several traumatic wound injuries at the knee joint laterally making the limb swollen. The four penetrating wounds were assumed to have been caused by attempted lion attack on the calf. All were probed using forceps and only one was slightly penetrating into muscles yielding approximately 50cc tenacious creamy pus. Others were superficial just like the other one which was on the left flank area just above the knee. They were about three to four days old and had no maggot infestation. He was bearing weight on the limb hence fracture was ruled out.

Treatment All were cleaned with Hydrogen peroxide and rinsed with Tincture of iodine expressing all dead debris and pus. Three Cloxacillin antibacterial cream was infiltrated in all wounds before wetted Green Clay was generously packed in each. Systemically it was injected with 20cc each of Multivitamin, Colvasone and Amoxicillin in different syringes and needles at different muscle site. The dart wound was infiltrated with one Cloxacillin cream tube to avoid abscess development. Reversal Anesthesia was reversed using 12mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into jugular vein prompting it to be up in three minutes. Re-union He called out (trumpeted) to the family members who were about hundred meters away. One vehicle was left near the calf while the other went to drive the rest of the family members towards the calf. His mother was also trumpeting and when they were thirty meters apart the vehicle guarding the calf pulled away. The mother spotted the baby and went straight to it followed by the rest of family members. All recognized the calf and ambulated away slowly towards the waterhole nearby. It will be reviewed in one week time and intervention performed accordingly if need be. Prognosis Was presumed to have fair prognosis considering the wounds were less than a week old and calf was still strong.

De-snaring of a giraffe

Date: 12th October 2016 Species: Maasai Giraffe Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Oloirero Borehole-Serengei Conservancy History The giraffe was reported by Big Life scouts as having been snared on the right hind limb. The Amboseli Unit responded promptly and met Serengei Conservancy led by the warden on the ground. Immobilization Immobilization was initiated by a cocktail of 13mgs Etorphine and 70mgs Azaperone. Vehicle darting was used and at speed because the giraffe was very apprehensive. The terrain was comprised of thorny shrub and was a challenge as he kept hiding behind them in attempt to avoid clear darting path. First dart was faulty as it never discharged and quickly another was prepared and darted. The dart was successful and the animal went down. Ambient temperature was very high and the animal had run for some time thus the exercise was aimed to be achieved very quickly to avoid any complication in the treatment thereof. It was blindfolded using towel and pinned on the ground by the neck and head on left lateral recumbence. Water was generously dowsed on the body. Examination The winch snare wire snoop was around the distal metatarsal area of the right hind limb barely tight and there was no resultant traumatic wound. It was about five meters long and was brushing against obstacles (bushes) as the animal ambulated, acting as a nuisance. Treatment The snoop was quickly loosened and taken off the limb distally. The animal was covered with 50mgs Dexamethasone intramuscularly to stabilize cell membranes because of the running before and after darting. Reversal He was reversed using 160mgs Naltrexone injected into jugular vein barely four minutes after he was roped down. He was up energetically in two minutes and ran away into the thorny shrub. Prognosis It had a favorable prognosis as the snare had not caused any traumatic wound.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT NOVEMBER 2016 Introduction The month of November began with inconsistent light showers within the park and fairly significant precipitation in some areas surrounding the park promising some good signs against the severe drought. It is the beginning of rain and dust is quickly settling down after devastating long dry spell. This is also expected to mark the massive exodus of the wild animals from and within the swamps of Amboseli National Park into deep forested nearby conservancy areas as they look for alternative browse. Presence of foliage and water will eventually reduce the competition between human and wildlife thus dwindling human-wildlife conflict cases are expected. This report covers a few cases that were attended just before the resident veterinarian Dr. Ephantus Ndambiri resumed from his annual leave and the cases following his return.

Elephant Collaring

Date: 2nd November 2016 Species: Elephant x 2 Age: Adult (30-35 years) Sex: Male Location: Kitirua Gate and Satao Elerai Conservancy History Collaring of two elephants was done in a collaborative effort to effectively monitor and understand the movement of this Key species within and beyond Amboseli ecosystem. Collaring data informs on policy decisions that would help in enhancing sustainable land use for coexistence of elephants amongst the conservation community. The elephants were collared at Kitirua gate area and Satao Elerai Conservancy. Immobilization and Collar Placement Both elephants were located after an aerial search and darted from a chopper using 18mg Etorphine Hydrochloride. Anaesthesia took effect within an average time of 10 minutes before recumbency. Collar placement was effectively done with the ground support team comprising competent multidisciplinary personnel. Reversal The anesthesia was reversed using 200mg Naltrexone and recovery was smooth. Pictorial Presentation

Treatment of a Speared Elephant

Species: Elephant Age: Adult (30-35 years) Sex: Female Location: Kimana Sanctuary History This adult elephant was in a big herd of about 30 elephants and was observed limping and immediately reported by the sanctuary rangers. The elephant cow was observed foraging within the herd and she was in good body condition. She was limping from an overt injury on the right hind leg even though she could still bear weight on the affected leg. Some blood mixed with pus discharged from the leg while she walked. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was darted from the vehicle using 18mg Etorphine Hcl. The anaesthesia was effective in 8 minutes and the animal went down on right lateral recumbence (lying on the affected leg). The elephant was roped and moved to a left lateral position to expose the injured leg for convenient and effective examination and treatment. The right rear leg had a penetrating spear wound with a lateral entry point penetrating downwards and deep through the sole of the affected limb.

There was no foreign object recovered from the wound and there was also no bone involvement. The soft tissue affected was fairly fresh with mild exudate of pus just starting to develop. The wound was carefully probed for any foreign object during cleaning; Cleaning was done using copious amount of water and Hydrogen peroxide through a gauze attached to a long atraumatic forceps. Tincture of iodine and green clay was then applied using the same approach to ensure penetration through the full depth of the injury. Intramuscular injection of 15000mg, amoxicillin trihydrate (BetamoxÂŽ) and 40mg of Dexamethasone 0.2% (injection Glucorton-20ÂŽ) were also administered. Reversal Reversal of anaesthesia was done using 200mg of Naltrexone with a smooth recovery. Prognosis Good

Examination and Management of a Speared Elephant

Date of death: 16/11/2016 Date of postmortem: 16/11/2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Longepito Rombo Area History The elephant had initially been attended to on 30th October of a spear wound to the lateral side of the right foreleg metacarpal joint. The prognosis for the elephant was guarded because of the location of the wound. A review was carried out on 16th November 2016 after being reported by Big Life rangers as having difficulties in ambulation. General examination It was observed that the animal had hardly moved a kilometer since last time it was attended to. This was because of the swollen right forelimb occasioned by a pus oozing wound at lateral side of metacarpal joint. Any attempt to use or bear weight on the limb precipitated heavy grunting obviously causing severe pain. It was found browsing but could hardly move showing swinging leg lameness. Its health status had deteriorated and he could not offer himself any protection. This put him at risk as an easy poaching target. A decision to euthanize the elephant was reached upon importantly because of trophy security and also to relief it of unbearable pain. It was put down humanely. Postmortem Diagnosis The wounded limb was dissected and followed the tenacious creamy pus exuding canal into joint cavity. The joint integrity was totally interfered with resulting in articular cartilage erosion, absence of synovial fluid, fibrosis of surrounding connective tissue and edema of other soft tissues. This explains why the animal could not make any useful ambulation because of severe pain emanating from the injury. Conclusion The spear caused fatal injury which resulted to irreversible sepsis.

Rescue of an Eland

Date: 17th November 2016 Species: Eland Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Maili Nne Rombo Area History This eland was spotted and reported by the community within the area to Rombo KWS Station who called for assistance from Amboseli Mobile Vet Unit. It was within the tomato cultivated fields and was reported to be docile. We quickly rushed there to assess the situation and rescue the candidate. Immobilization, examination and treatment It was darted with 7mgs Etorphine and 50mgs Azaperone in 1.5cc dart filled with 500I.U Hyalase. The animal was darted from foot as the animal was approachable. The dart landed on the right gluteal muscles and remained calm on sternal recumbence until it was fully narcotized at the edge of tomato cultivated field. Initial examination before darting depicted a weak emaciated old bull probably poor health exacerbated by prevailing dry season. Attempts to urge it to move proved difficult and it ended up lying down in sternal recumbence. Plans were made for it to be translocated away from the community area to the nearby forest area where there is minimal human activity. With the help of the community it was manually loaded into an empty pick up using slings and a stretcher. It was placed on right lateral recumbence with head first and secured safely using ropes. The tongue was pulled out to the left side to allow drainage of any saliva and or ruminal fluids. It was transported away and released safely deep in the nearby forest. Before revival while on sternal recumbence on the ground, it was covered against any opportunistic pathogen using 75000mgs Tetracycline, 50mgs Dexamethasone and 50ml Catosal into different muscle sites. 10mgs Ivermectin was administered under the skin to cover against endo- and ectoparasites. The dart wound was infiltrated with one Cloxacillin cream tube to avoid abscess development. Reversal Anesthesia was reversed using 80mgs Naltrexone Hydrochloride into jugular vein. It was left on sternal recumbence silently being fully aware of its surrounding to get up while at a far watch. The Big Life Camp nearby was alerted of the case so that they can call where necessary. Prognosis Was presumed to have guarded prognosis considering the poor health status and prevailing dry season causing browse scarcity.

Treatment of an Injured Lion

Date: 18th November 2016 Species: Lion Sex: Male Age: Sub adult Location: Pipeline Tsavo East National Park History This lion was reported by Tsavo East KWS radio room to have been injured by buffalo while on a hunting mission. The Amboseli Vet Unit rushed to treat the lion because the Tsavo Vet Unit was not within the area of jurisdiction. Immobilization, examination and treatment It was immobilized using 200mgs Ketamine and 1.5mgs Medetomidine in a 3cc dart which was filled with water for injection. It was fully narcotized in five minutes. A blind fold was placed around the head while it was on sternal recumbence and then placed on right recumbence with tongue pulled to the side to allow saliva drainage. It was slightly emaciated and slightly lame on the left forelimb which had a shallow raw wound at the center of paw dorsally. The left eye was cloudy and the lateral corner of the eyelid had a pus oozing laceration. This pus was draining into the eye partially obliterating it. The left mandible had two penetrating septic wounds on the masseter muscle with one extending into the muscle and the other one just through the skin. This made the jaw swollen caudally and had pus burn on the neck skin adjacent resulting to alopecia. Another shallow pus covered wound was on the left ear pinna on inner surface. It had not gone through and its drainage was into the ear meatus. This exudate had maggots depicting that the lion had been with injuries for about a week. Chewing movements and dentition were normal. It was a member of a pride with seven members, including two adult females who all were present. They had feasted on a buffalo carcass the previous night and were found guarding it by the Tsavo Vet Unit driver who directed us to the scene. All wounds were cleaned using Hydrogen Peroxide and Tincture of Iodine carefully avoiding eye and ear meatus contact. Swabs were used to wipe any fluid in the eye and ear. The eye was infiltrated with one tube of Cloxacillin Eye Ointment and so were other wounds after topical Tetracycline wound spray. Systemically it was covered with 15ml Catosal, 10mgs Dexamethasone and 2250mgs Amoxicillin into different muscle sites. It was placed under the shrub shade for Ketamine to wear of. Reversal Revival from anesthesia was done after 45 minutes since darting when it begun to flap the left ear. This was done using 20mgs Atipamezole injected into left rump muscles. It was fully awake in 17 minutes and left to join the rest of pride members who were just nearby. Prognosis It had favorable prognosis and will require a review after seven to ten days if sighted. This has been notified to Resident veterinarian.

Response to Lion Injury Report

Date: 20th November 2016 Species: Lion Pride: A lioness and 3 cubs Location: Amboseli National Park Gps Coordinates: 37M 0312012 UTM 9702845 History It was early in the morning when a tourist made a report to the Amboseli Tourism Warden that there was a pride which had a seemingly ill member needing veterinary attention. The Mobile Vet Unit was quickly informed and rushed there before the pride could retreat deep into the bush. Observation It was observed that the pride composed of four members; a lioness and her three cubs. They were found scattered but within sight of one another. The Lioness was lying down with two cubs close by while the third cub was on the wildebeest carcass near the edge of the road. All had swollen bellies, an indication that they had had their fill. Keen observation revealed that some cubs had bloody coloration on their front limbs but no member needed vet assistance. All were observed while in motion as mother picked the carcass to hide it and the three cubs followed energetically. They were left to enjoy their meal peacefully.

Postmortem of an elephant

Date of death: Unknown Date of PM: 25th November 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Uncertain Age: Juvenile Location: Lemongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;o ; Amboseli History The elephant carcass was sighted by Satao Olerai security rangers on the evening of 24/11/2016. The report reached the vet unit through the Community Warden Amboseli N.P. but postmortem was postponed to the following day due to darkness. General examination The carcass was on sternal recumbence and the posterior side had severe maggot infestation and had been preyed upon. The two small Ivory trophies had been retrieved by the Amboseli Park rangers for safe custody and onward transmission. The carcass was swollen due to autolysis and putrefaction. A bad odour was emanating from the carcass and abdominal discharges had oozed out stretching about six meters from the posterior of the carcass portraying extensive decomposition. No skin injury or discontinuity was obviously noted from the skin covered carcass but the spine was prominent. The area surrounding the carcass had droppings suspected to have been from the rest of the family and also signs of browse on the nearby shrubs. Postmortem Diagnosis The carcass had undergone heavy autolysis making any meaningful postmortem findings impossible. The carcass was approximated to be more than four days old. Conclusion The postmortem was inconclusive but tentatively the young elephant could have gone down due to poor health (lassitude) as a result of the prevailing dry weather. This was suspected by prominence of the spine despite carcass swelling.

FOLLOW UP CASES Ngulia elephant cow (Treated on 23.10.16) The elephant cow treated last month at Ngulia lodge is showing promising prognosis and has now joined her herd. The swellings have gone down and the animal is regularly sighted as they come to drink water at the lodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water point; our visit for a repeat assessment did not succeed as she did not show up but communication from the lodge management confirms significant improvement. Rombo elephant bull (Treated on 30.10.16) This bull was treated for a front leg injury and her prognosis was guarded; He has not been sighted since the last treatment date but the Kenya Wildlife Service and the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Big Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rangers are active on their search for a repeat treatment. Kimana gate elephant cow This elephant was in a herd near the park entrance and had a stiff legged gait; her left hind limb dragged behind as she walked. She did not have any external injury and was suspected to have dislocated the leg. She was not treated as she needed a period of monitoring prior to an informed intervention.

AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT DECEMBER 2016 Introduction The Amboseli Vet Unit was busy this month as it covered for the Tsavo Vet Unit which is on annual leave. The hills, slopes and plains of the Amboseli ecosystem are splendid and blossoming with abundant browse and forage after the recent rains. The riverbeds and temporary streams were flowing and all these ensure that there is life within the entire ecosystem. Animals have been seen within the community conservancies as they seek solace from the cold wet plains of the National Park. The month under review has witnessed trauma cases inflicted by humans on the wild animals especially elephant in attempted poaching or human wildlife conflict issues. Also severe and prolonged dry spell effects are being felt on the younger animals. Following are veterinary activities attended to during the month;

De-snaring of an elephant

Date: 4th Dec 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Sub Adult Location: Mwaruganje Community Sanctuary; Shimba Hills History This elephant was reported in the afternoon of 3/12/2016 by AD Coastal Conservation area as having a wire around its right forelimb resulting in severe lameness and isolation. A desnaring mission was set for the following day. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was in Mwaruganje Elephant Sanctuary under the keen watch of Kwale KWS rangers. The terrain was very challenging because it was near the river gorge. It was darted from foot with 10mgs Etorphine and 500I.U. Hyarulonidase. The aim was to quickly get short down time to avoid the elephant plunging into the nearby gorge. He walked away limping and groaning in pain and was on sternal recumbence in four minutes. It was placed on right lateral recumbence manually and left ear used as blind fold. The right fore limb at the metacarpal area had an all-round traumatic wound from which a winch snare wire, approximately a meter long, was emerging. The snare was more than a month old and the tissues around the snare and re-epithelialization was almost embedding the wire. It was severed carefully avoiding unnecessary trauma and bleeding using a wire cutter. The resultant wound was cleaned thoroughly and gently, using a sponge, Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine Tincture in order not to disrupt or interfere with scab formation. Green clay was then applied to the generously wound. Systematically it was covered against any opportunistic pathogen using 15,000mgs Amoxicillin, 50mgs Dexamethasone and 50ml Catosal into different muscle sites. The dart wound was infiltrated with one Cloxacillin cream tube to avoid abscess development and another used to keep the eyes moist and covered against any infection. Prognosis It has favorable prognosis because of the healing attempt noted, good body condition and presence of abundance browse within the area.

Postmortem of an elephant

Date of death: 5th Dec 2016 Date of postmortem: 5th Dec 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Female Age: Juvenile Location: Tsavo East History The report was made on 4/12/2016 by Tsavo East Coy commander that he had spotted a recumbent elephant while on air recce. Due to exigency of duties it was attended to on the following day. General examination The young female was found on left lateral recumbence and there were signs of straining as she tried to get up but all in vain. The family members had stayed there for some time because there were heaps of droppings. Its dorsal keratin part of skin especially that which was exposed to sun had been scorched and was sloughing off. This indicated that the candidate had been recumbent for more than three days without water or food. It was alert and even trying to grab someone’s feet during examination. It appeared severely emaciated as depicted by the spine prominence. With the help of ropes it was moved to the right recumbence and there was no obvious sign of trauma. Efforts to put it on its feet were futile as she proved to be too weak and dehydrated. Decision to put it down was reached thereof in order to prevent suffering and undue stress. It was humanely euthanized using Sodium Pentobarbital into the jugular vein. Postmortem ensured immediately. Postmortem Diagnosis The eyes were sunken and the skin was very dry on incision. The offal’s’ mucosa, as wells as the muscles, were very dry and creamy white. The peritoneal fluid was very clear and there was hardly any pleural fluid. Every organ seemingly appeared normal accept for lack of any fatty tissue. There was no coronary fat and it appeared to have no omentum because all fat had been utilized. The small ivory tusks were retrieved and handed over to Tsavo East armory for safe custody and onward transmission. Conclusion The witnessed lassitude and lethargy was thought to have arisen from severe and prolonged dry spell resulting to insufficient browse. This is usually worse for the weaners and the very old.

Treatment of an elephant

Date: 6th Dec 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Oldonyo Wuas; Chyulu Hills History This elephant was spotted and reported by Big Life rangers after tracking him for several days. He was dragging one of the limbs as depicted by the foot prints Immobilization, examination and treatment It was darted with 17mgs Etorphine and 5000I.U Hyalase in a 3cc dart from a vehicle. The dart was placed in the left humeral area rostrally because he kept facing the vehicle when darting was attempted. He strolled calmly after darting and was trailed until he was fully narcotized after six minutes and assumed right lateral recumbence. His left ear was used as a blind fold. The elephant had sustained three spear wounds. Two were on the right front limb at the metacarpal area while the other one was on the left rump. All were oozing pus and the worst one was on the medial carpal area. All were probed with a long forceps for any foreign body all in vain. He was flipped over to the other side using a strap and a vehicle for thorough examination. All wounds were carefully cleaned with Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine and liberally covered with Green Clay. Both eyes were oiled using Cloxacillin eye ointment. Systemically he was given 30mgs Dexamethasone and 30000mgs Tetracycline intramuscularly at different sites. The dart wound was infiltrated with one Cloxacillin cream tube to avoid abscess development. A review will be made after ten days which will also give a new prognosis status. Reversal Anesthesia was reversed using 60mgs Naltrexone Hydrochloride mixed with 12mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into jugular vein. He was up in one and a half minutes and energetically sauntered away. Prognosis Wounds are still fleshy and for the initial treatment it has a favorable prognosis. Prognosis will be considered again after treatment review which will be done after ten days.

Rescue of a giraffe

Date: 7th Dec 2016 Species: Maasai Giraffe Sex: Male Age: Juvenile Location: Kimana Big Life Kilo 4 Camp History A report was made by Big Life Bravo 4 Camp that the perimeter fence around their camp had entangled and trapped a giraffe causing stress as it strained to liberate itself. We responded quickly to avoid undue trauma and anxiety. The young male was found trapped in a seven wire strands fence with three wires on the left side and the rest on the right. He was struggling to get out but couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. Its anxiety was exacerbated by human presence. It was on its all fours and kept on going forth and back Rescue A decision to quickly liberate it was made by severing the top most wire on the left side. It was cut using a wire cutter and immediately the animal fell to the left and assumed left recumbence. It was held manually as its limbs were pushed away from the fence wire. It was examined for any injury and there was no sign of trauma to the skin surface. It was held quietly and given time to recover a little bit from the stress. He was then able to get up on his own which he did energetically and galloped away. Conclusion The Fence attendant was instructed to hang visible straps which would warn the animal that there was a wire and avoid further entanglement or trapping.

Treatment of an elephant

Date: 12th Dec 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Maktau Gate; Tsavo West History The elephant was spotted and reported by DWST de-snaring team based at Maktau Gate as being unable to ambulate due to a swollen left forelimb. The Amboseli Mobile Vet Unit Vet was picked by the DWST fixed wing for prompt response from Amboseli to the location where the de-snaring team was waiting. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was darted with 17mgs Etorphine topped up with water for injection in a 3cc dart from a vehicle. The dart was placed in the rump and he ambulated with difficulties before stopping and falling on left lateral recumbence after seven minutes. Its right ear was used as a blind fold and the trunk was kept patent by use of a piece of stick stuck. The left limb was palpated on the medial side for any trauma and pitting on pressure was evident due to edema. Aspirations were tried at three different locations but all yielded clear edema fluid. The elephant was turned with the help of ropes anchored to the vehicle to the right recumbence to expose the left forelimb dorsally for further examination. It was noted to have a penetrating pus oozing wound on the lateral carpal joint. It was pronged for any foreign body using forceps. It was assumed to have been caused by penetrating spear and was about fifteen centimeters deep pointing rostrally but involving the joint capsule. The injury was more than two weeks old The wound was generously cleaned with Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine. Cloxacillin cream was infiltrated into the canal followed by wet Green Clay. Both eyes were oiled using Cloxacillin eye ointment. Systemically he was covered with 50mgs Dexamethasone and 30000mgs Tetracycline intramuscularly at different sites. The dart wound was infiltrated with one Cloxacillin cream tube to avoid abscess development. He was dowsed with water liberally all through the exercise on the ears. A review will be made after ten days which will also give a new prognosis status. Reversal Anesthesia was reversed using 80mgs Naltrexone Hydrochloride into jugular vein. He was up in two minutes energetically and meandered away flapping the ears simultaneously. Prognosis This is guarded till after treatment review is done.

Treatment review of speared elephant

Date: 26/12/2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Lumo Conservancy; Taita Taveta History This elephant was initially attended to on the 12/12/2016 at Maktau Gate Tsavo West and a review was scheduled after ten days. Luckily he was spotted by visitors to Lumo Conservancy on 25/12/2016 and tracked down on 26/12/2016 by the DWST de-snaring team based at Maktau Gates. A quick response ensured to evaluate the response to initial treatment. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was sedated using 10mgs Etorphine in a 3cc dart topped up with water for injection. It was darted from a vehicle whilst he was calmly resting under a shady tree. The dart was placed in the left hind limb femur muscles. He kept on walking lamely but stopped before he went down on right recumbence. The right ear flap was used as blind fold and the trunk was straightened and kept patent by the help of a piece of stick across the opening. Water was constantly dowsed on its ears to keep it cool from high ambient temperature. The left limb was palpated for any possible site to create drainage but all in vain as any aspiration attempt yielded nothing. The wound was covered with creamy tenacious pus and was explored for any foreign material and nothing was noted. At least the canal had shortened to about ten centimeters which had little pus. The edema had subsided markedly only remaining around the joint The pus was scooped carefully as much as possible and eventually cleaned with a copious amount of Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine. It was easily bleeding showing good healing signs. Two Cloxacillin cream tubes were infiltrated into the canal and topically sprayed with Tetracycline wound spray followed by wet green clay packed onto the surface. It was covered with 50mgs Dexamethasone intravenously and 30000mgs Tetracycline intramuscularly at different sites. The dart wound was infiltrated with one Cloxacillin cream tube to avoid abscessation. Prognosis Remarkable wound healing sign were obvious making prognosis favorable. Only that it will heal with contracture as the left carpal joint is undergoing fusion.

Treatment of an elephant

Date: 12/12/2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Komboyo; Tsavo East History This elephant was reported to Amboseli Vet on the morning of 12/12/2016 by Senior Warden Tsavo West. At the time of reporting the vet was attending another case of elephant injury at Maktau gate with the DWST fixed wing aircraft. The bull was said to have necrotic tissues protruding from the umbilical region appearing like intestines. It was reported to be in no pain; feeding and ambulating well. The vet was dropped at Komboyo Airstrip by the same plane that afternoon to join the DWST de-snaring team on the ground. After darting the animal ran into thick bush necessitating the DWST chopper to be called in to assist in locating the immobilized elephant which was successfully located. Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was found browsing at the edge of the road. It started moving away before darting prompting the vet to dart the animal quickly from foot using 17mgs Etorphine in 1.5cc dart into the gluteal muscles. It was followed on foot but the thick bush made it difficult to have a successful search. After twelve minutes the DWST chopper assistance was sought which quickly responded from Kaluku and located the fully anaesthetized bull in right recumbence by the twentieth minute since time of darting. The left ear was used as blind fold and the trunk was kept patent by placing a piece of stick across the extreme open end to allow free respiration. Breathing was deep at 7/minute and temperature was 39.9 degree Celsius. Copious amount of water was used to cool the animal during the operation. It was established that the hanging debris were emanating from what appeared as an open arrow injury pouch rostral to umbilical area. There was also accompanying pus making the wound have foul smell. The opening was enlarged by use of a surgical blade to facilitate complete and thorough emptying of the pouch of dead debris. Hemostats were used to control the bleeders which were severed in enlarging the pouch opening. The emptied pouch was thoroughly cleaned with Hydrogen Peroxide and Tincture of Iodine and then packed generously with Wet Green Clay. Systemically the bull was covered with 600000mgs Tetracycline into muscles and 50ml Dexamethasone into ear vein. The dart wound was infiltrated with one Cloxacillin cream tube to avoid abscess development and another used on both eyes. Reversal The huge bull was revived using 80mgs Naltrexone intravenously after forty minutes since darting time. He got up from narcosis in three minutes and walked lazily away. Prognosis It has favorable prognosis because the injury had not impacted negatively on feeding and ambulation. A review will be made after ten days if sighted.

De-snaring of a giraffe

Date: 14/12/2016 Species: Maasai Giraffe Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Oldonyo Wuas; Chyulu Hills History It was reported by Big life rangers after being elusive over a long period. Prompt measures were taken to effect treatment. Immobilization, examination and treatment The giraffe was immobilized using 15mgs Etorphine and 35mg Azaperone in a 3cc dart from a vehicle. It kept on walking slowly after darting only to begin a short gallop after five minutes. It was roped on the seventh minute after exhibiting star gazing posture. It fell on left lateral recumbence and maintained on the ground by physical restraint. The right hind limb had sustained a severe injury at the distal metatarsus near the fetlock joint as a result of a tight winch snare wire. As a result, the hoof had knuckled and suffered bruising due to friction during movement. Its health status was good exhibiting good muscle cover. It was observed that once the snare was removed it could still survive though with a deformed foot. The snare wire was deeply embedded in the scarring traumatic wound. It was removed with the help of long nose pliers and severed by a wire cutter carefully avoiding unnecessary trauma. This was aided safely by anchoring the two top most limbs onto the car to avoid kicking. This had to be done rather quickly before the immobilization impacted negatively on the candidate. It was revived with 80mgs Naltrexone into the jugular vein. This now allowed systematic cleaning of the resultant wound with Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine. The woud was sprayed with Tetracycline wound spray followed with a generous amount of wet green clay. The right eye was infiltrated with Cloxacillin eye ointment as was the dart wound. The operation lasted for thirty minutes. It was injected with 15000mgs Amoxicillin into muscles and also with 50mgs Dexamethasone. It was sluggish getting up and support was offered which was sufficient to keep his head up enabling him to get to his feet. A review will be made after 10-15 days if sighted. Prognosis It has a favorable prognosis apart from the fact that the affected limb will never assume normal anatomical figure.

Treatment of an elephant

Date: 15th Dec 2016 Species: Elephant Sex: Male Age: Adult Location: Kaluku; Tsavo East History After being elusive for about a week this elephant was spotted by the DWST air team who kept surveillance until the Amboseli vet was procured to offer the necessary treatment. The vet was picked by DWST air craft from Amboseli N.P. to Kaluku air strip to join the DWST ground and air team. It had pus oozing wound on the left belly side. Immobilization, examination and treatment Helicopter darting was paramount considering the terrain in which the candidate was in. A euro copter was used in the exercise and the candidate was immobilized using 17mgs Etorphine in a 3cc dart after pushing it to a convenient fairly open ground to allow the ground team accessibility and any maneuver if required. The dart landed on the spine and after fifteen minutes it was determined that another dart was necessary. A second dart was prepared quickly while in the chopper of the same dose. The dart struck the left rump and the elephant was down on left recumbence in five minutes. The chopper landed and the vet coordinated the exercise. It had to be flipped to the right recumbence to expose the injury on the left side. This was done with ropes anchored on a bush truck. His left ear was used as a blind fold. The exercise had to be done quickly because the candidate had been driven for a long period using chopper exacerbated by the initial faulty dart. The trunk was maintained patent by use of a piece of stick. The oozing wound was barely ten centimeters deep and approximately could hold about a hundred milliliters. It was probed for any foreign body but none was recovered. It was presumed to have been inflicted by an arrow. The wound was liberally cleaned with Hydrogen Peroxide and Iodine. One Cloxacillin Ointment tube was infiltrated into the pouch followed by wet green clay. Systemically it was covered with 30000mgs Tetracycline into two different muscle sites and 50ml Dexamethasone intravenously to stabilize cell membranes and avoid capture myopathy after a long trail. Reversal Anesthesia was reversed using 80mgs Naltrexone Hydrochloride mixed with 12mgs Diprenorphine Hydrochloride into jugular vein. He was up in one and half minutes and walked into thick bush nearby. Prognosis Favorable.

10. Manyani lion invasion Date: 28-29/12/2016 Species: Lion Pride Sex: Lioness and two cubs Age: One Adult & Two Juveniles Location: Manyani Law Enforcement Academy; Tsavo East History A report was received on the 27/12/2016 from Deputy Commandant-LEA concerning invasion of the institution compound by a pride of lions for the last one week. The pride was reported to be sometimes two, four, and at times six members. They posed a security threat as they were seen near residence areas at night and hiding in the bushes during the day. The Vet Unit was called to capture and translocate the pride. Recce After being briefed of the situation the whole area was inspected for the cats’ presence and activities and it was established the cats were in the compound. The team on the ground had set a trap with bait to trap the individual the previous night which was unsuccessful as the trap was not suitable for large cat capture. It was also learnt that helicopter services had been requested to try and chase the lions away from the compound. It was noted that within the enclosed compound there were other wild animals which were thought to be behind the cats’ invasion. These included two zebras; a male and a female, more than four waterbucks, at least two lesser kudus and multiple dikdiks. The bushes and thickets within the compound were noted to be thick with plenty of undergrowth due to the recent rains and outcropping rocks making the habitat suitable for the cats and a challenging one for darting exercise. After the recce the following was communicated to the Deputy Commandant during debrief; • • •

the herbivores within the compound should be attempted to be removed by darting and releasing outside the compound More suitable (two compartment) traps (at least two) were needed The fence was not a hundred percent invasion proof and that animals could invade even after the ones inside are removed. For effective electric fence the vegetation growth near the fence line should be controlled. Gate would remain electrified during the night as it was previously witnessed that the cats had attempted to gain entrance through the gate.

Exercise The chopper came in the afternoon and was able to flush out two cubs, two waterbucks and a lesser kudu. The lioness and zebras proved to be difficult. The lioness remained under the thickets and the zebras kept on galloping around the compound. One male zebra was darted using 4mgs Etorphine and 70mgs Azaperone. It was revived on the other side of the fence with 40mgs Naltrexone into jugular vein. Attempts to remove the female were unsuccessful due to the terrain. The exercise was postponed till the following day but unfortunately the male zebra was back through the fence into the compound to join the female. The trap was checked the following day and indicated that the cat had visited the trap and released it. She had attempted to get out the bait but the trap was too short. It was asserted that she was half way into the trap only to be hit by the trap door on the back. She crawled back getting out of the trap. The two zebras were darted almost simultaneously which allowed them to be transported together by the lorry and were released across the highway into Tsavo East through Manyani Gate. Each was darted with 4mgs Etorphine and 70mgs Azaperone and revived at release site with 40mgs Naltrexone into jugular vein. They recognized one another after narcosis and mingled with a nearby herd. Attempts to dart the waterbuck proved futile as it was very shy. The exercise was called off to allow the Vet Unit to attend to other duties in different areas of its jurisdiction. Meanwhile there was hope that the chopper would attempt another drive that afternoon and that more traps would be sourced to speed up with safe trapping of the cats.