During the month, the UPNR team received a report of a large elephant bull with several large swellings on his body, face and shoulder.
Not knowing for certain what may have caused these lesions, and considering the breeding age of the bull, it was decided to immobilise the bull to try to determine the cause of the swellings and to treat these, if possible.
Once successfully immobilised and assessed, veterinarians on site confirmed that the swellings were abscesses, likely caused by stab wounds inflicted during a fight with another bull. The wounds were carefully cleaned, and the elephant was treated with antibiotics. We are hopeful for his full recovery, especially considering he is of prime breeding age.
We were honoured to have had a representative from Lydenburg Toyota present during this operation. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of three UPNR management and anti-poaching vehicles by Lydenburg Toyota, the UPNR can carry out vital conservation work, including interventions like this. We extend heartfelt thanks to Lydenburg Toyota for their ongoing support, and to everyone who contributed to assessing and treating this elephant bull.
Words by Tess Woollgar. Images courtesy of Stacey Pretorius.