This incredibly tiny calf has been rescued with thanks to community intervention.
A few days ago, this poor little calf was found stuck in this mud hole by members of the Chiwole Village, near South Luangwa National Park.
He was trying to escape, and with no sign of his mother nearby to assist him, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife and Conservation South Luangwa were alerted to help him. He was quickly transferred to the safety of Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust (CWET) for stabilisation, essential rehydration and nutrition. CWET are experienced in primary stabilisation of orphaned elephant calves and have helped save many over the years.
Once inside the safety of the boma this little bull was able to get some much-needed sleep and rest. Meanwhile Elephant Keeper Aaron was swiftly transported to help settle the calf with thanks to ProflightZambia, and on his arrival he was impressed to find such a small elephant with such a fierce appetite and energy (in between his many naps that is)!
He has been called Wamwayi (‘lucky one’ in the local language of Chinyanja) and will be transported to the Elephant Nursery where he will rekindle with other orphaned elephants. However, at only 2 months old he is in incredibly vulnerable, despite appearances, and needs constant attention. At this stage he cannot be left alone at all and needs frequent specialised feeds as well as lots of reassurance. The next 6 months will be critical as he adapts to the new nutrition and surrogate herd at the nursery. This is just the first step in a very long journey for Wamwayi, and the start of a 15 year commitment to his release back to the wild. Stay tuned to follow his journey...
The most precious gift is the gift of life...Help Wamwayi on his journey of recovery and give a Christmas gift of life!
$35 Will feed Wamwayi for 1 week
$50 Will cover essential veterinary checks
$100 Will support Wamwayi’s need for around the clock care
Wamwayi’s rescue was made possible with the support of our partners in conservation Department of National Parks Wildlife, David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, International Fund for Animal Welfare and Olsen Animal Trust
