Case 14 – 27th February 2023

Elephant Human – Wildlife Conflict Kimana Sanctuary

While on patrol in Kimana Sanctuary, BLF rangers reported a lame elephant bull. The elephant was most likely speared in the community area before entering the sanctuary.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment

The injured elephant was immobilized with 18 mg Etorphine.

A deep penetrating wound was observed on the left forelimb. The wound’s location near a joint likely caused the elephant’s lameness. 100 ml Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone were administered to assist in wound healing. The wound was then debrided with Hydrogen peroxide and Iodine and sprayed with Oxytetracycline. Anaesthesia was thereafter reversed with Naltrexone. The elephant stood and moved to a nearby grassland to join other elephants.

Prognosis

The elephant has a good prognosis