Case 13 – 21st April 2023

Elephant Spear Naibosho Conservancy

While on patrol in Naibosho Conservancy, Mara Elephant Project rangers spotted a big elephant bull named Polaris with 2 visible spear wounds.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment

Polaris was found grazing alone in a bushy area. He was darted from a vehicle with 17 mgs Etorphine on the hind quarters. When the dart landed, he attempted to flee but was prevented from reaching the nearby bushes with a vehicle. After 10 minutes, full immobilization was achieved with Polaris on lateral recumbency. The left ear was used to cover the left eye to shield it from direct sunlight and dust, his body was also doused with water to cool him down. Upon close examination, Polaris was found to have 2 penetrating spear wounds; the 1st wound was at the level of the scapula while the other was on the hind quarters. The wounds were cleaned with Hydrogen peroxide and Iodine before being sprayed with Tetracycline to repel flies. Systemic administration of Oxytetracycline and Dexamethasone was also done Polaris was then revied with Naltrexone administered intravenously and intramuscularly. He rose 5 minutes later and walked to towards the nearby bushy area.

Prognosis

Polaris has a good prognosis