An elephant calf, estimated to be 4-6 weeks old, was found trapped in a muddy trench at Seconee Tea Estate near Kaziranga, Assam, on Wednesday morning. The herd had reportedly attempted to help the calf, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
After discovering the calf in distress, compassionate tea garden workers and villagers immediately alerted the Kaziranga National Park authorities. A team from the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC), led by Dr. Bhaskar Choudhury, CWRC Centre Manager and lead veterinarian at WTI, also arrived at the site to assist with the rescue operation.
The calf was carefully lifted out of the trench and taken to the nearest beat office for urgent veterinary care. Dehydrated and suffering from severe muscular exhaustion, it was given fluids and immediate medical attention. The team monitored the calf and waited until evening, hoping to facilitate a safe reunion.
Unfortunately, the herd did not return, and the calf was subsequently admitted to CWRC for rehabilitation, joining ten other elephants currently under care at the centre.
Dr. Bhaskar Choudhury, CWRC Centre Manager and the lead veterinarian, WTI said, “This calf’s journey from isolation and distress to safety and care reflects the dedication of
local communities, forest officials, and wildlife experts working together. While we always prioritise reunion with the wild herd, rehabilitation offers this calf a second chance at life.”