Rescue Operation Underway for Injured Wild Elephant "Phang Chakkalern" in Trat

Picture courtesy of The Office of Natural Resources Conservation.

A team of veterinarians and officials is racing against time to treat a severely injured wild female elephant named "Phang Chakkalern" in Bo Rai District, Trat Province. The elephant, estimated to be between 8 to 10 years old and weighing approximately 2-3 tons, was found with injuries to both of her front legs.

The rescue operation is being led by Dr. Sirawit Sapphanek, a veterinarian from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) at the Si Racha Wildlife Conservation Office. The team comprises personnel from various agencies, including the Second Wildlife Assistance Centre, the Chong Klam Bon Wildlife Breeding Station, Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park, Khlong Kruea Wai Wildlife Sanctuary, local government officials, and community volunteers.

The team spent the entire day tracking and treating Phang Chakkalern, who was found with a herd of 5-9 other wild elephants in the border area between rubber plantations, oil palm plantations, and the foothills of the Suthep Mountain range. The medical intervention began in the evening and continued into the night.

Upon close observation through binoculars, the team discovered an open wound approximately 2x2 inches in size above the left ankle and swelling and redness in her right leg, causing her to limp. The veterinary team administered anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics, totalling 40 millilitres , by darting the elephant.

The exact cause of her injuries remains unclear, but it is suspected that she may have been injured by gunfire, shrapnel, or in a panic-induced fall into a plantation ditch or over a tree stump.

The veterinarians estimate that it will take about 3-5 days for the inflammation and infection to subside. They will monitor Phang Chakkalern's condition closely over the next 3-4 weeks. If there is no significant improvement, the team may have to sedate the elephant for a more thorough examination and treatment.

This operation highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and the collaborative efforts of various agencies in preserving Thailand's ecological balance. Wild elephants play a crucial role in maintaining forest ecosystems, making their protection vital for the environment.

-- 2024-09-01
 

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