In a daring and successful rescue mission aimed at safeguarding both humans and wildlife, a stranded elephant found itself at the center of a collaborative effort by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) teams.

The operation unfolded at Mwea National Reserve on June 11, 2017, with the goal of addressing the potential threats posed by the elephant as it roamed through villages on the boundary of Kitui and Machakos County.

Efforts to guide the elephant back to the reserve faced challenges, leading to a well-coordinated capture-and-release operation. The operation began with a helicopter-assisted darting using 20mg Etorphine hydrochloride in a 3ml dart, strategically moving the elephant to open ground before the drug took effect.

To ensure a secure and controlled environment during transportation, the elephant’s trunk was straightened, its eyes covered with the ear flap, and regular water dousing maintained its temperature.

A thorough physical examination revealed superficial wounds on the trunk and shoulder, which were treated with Povidone iodine. The elephant received intramuscular doses of antibiotics and Catosal, a multivitamin.

The next phase involved delicately hoisting the elephant onto a flatbed truck using a crane, securing it in lateral recumbence with ropes. In a deep sedated state, maintained with intravenously administered Etorphine hydrochloride doses, the elephant covered a distance of 120 kilometers over three hours and fifteen minutes.

The release took place at a carefully chosen site within Mwea National Reserve, near a water point. The anesthesia reversal, achieved with 30mg of Buprenorphine hydrochloride, brought the elephant back to its feet within three minutes. Initially displaying a staggering gait due to hind leg numbness, the elephant gradually regained full mobility as it walked away.

This successful translocation serves as a pivotal conservation effort, ensuring the well-being of both the elephant and the local community. The collaborative rescue mission exemplifies the dedication to coexistence between wildlife and humans, highlighting the importance of conservation initiatives for the benefit of all.