Digboi: An elephant calf aged around four to six weeks was rescued from a muddy trench at Seconee Tea Estate near Assam’s Kaziranga National park on Wednesday morning after its herd failed to pull it out.
The herd reportedly tried several times to rescue the calf, but the depth and muddy conditions of the trench prevented them from doing so. Tea garden workers and villagers who heard the calf’s distress calls reached the spot and informed the Kaziranga National Park authorities.
A team from the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC), led by CWRC Centre Manager and Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) lead veterinarian Bhaskar Choudhury, then reached the site.
The team lifted the exhausted calf from the trench and took it to the nearest beat office for medical treatment.
The calf was severely dehydrated and suffering from acute muscular exhaustion after being trapped for an extended period. Veterinary personnel administered fluids and provided emergency treatment while monitoring its condition.
The rescue team initially waited for the calf’s herd to return so that it could be reunited with the elephants. The calf was monitored until evening while officials and wildlife experts waited for the herd to come back.
The herd did not return, ending the possibility of reunification. The calf was then shifted to the CWRC for specialised rehabilitation and round-the-clock care. It has joined 10 other elephants currently receiving treatment and rehabilitation at the centre.
Bhaskar Choudhury said the incident showed the importance of cooperation between communities, forest authorities and wildlife specialists in protecting animals in distress.
“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,” he said.
The tea garden workers and villagers quickly informed the authorities, while forest officials and wildlife veterinarians carried out the rescue and provided medical care.
The calf will continue to receive specialised care at CWRC as wildlife experts work to stabilise its health and support its long-term rehabilitation.