(IN) WTI rehabilitates elephant calf with deformity

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http://www.wti.org.in/current-news/090106_elephant_survives_in_wild_despite_defo\

rmity.html

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*REUNITED ELEPHANT CALF SURVIVES IN WILD DESPITE DEFORMITY*

 

*Kaziranga National Park (Assam), January 6, 2009:* A displaced wild

elephant calf that was reunited with its natal herd in Kaziranga National

Park a month ago was sighted earlier last week, confirming successful

reintegration. The sighting has pleasantly surprised conservationists who

had doubts about its survival, as the calf has a congenital deformity in its

leg.

 

 

The calf was rescued by the Assam Forest Department officials from a marsh

near Roumari on December 3 last year. It was provided medical treatment for

its injuries and reunited with its natal herd soon after.

 

Dr Phulmoni Gogoi, Wildlife Trust of India – International Fund for Animal

Welfare (WTI-IFAW) veterinarian, said, " I had treated the calf for an

abscess in its hindlimb. She also had a congenital deformity in the right

hind leg stifle joint. She could not flex the leg fully and had a limping

gait. Although, the forest officials had reunited her with her natal herd,

we were doubtful of her survival. "

 

On Tuesday, the calf was sighted by Dr Prasanta Boro, veterinarian at the

WTI-IFAW run Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC). He

was on his way to release a hog deer, when he saw the calf among its herd

near Karasine Camp in Kohora Range.

 

" We hadn't got any information on the calf after its reunion. I believed

that it had been predated upon. But when I saw the pictures taken by Dr

Boro, I knew it was her, " Dr Gogoi confirmed, adding that the calf would

have to be 'as lucky' to reach adulthood.