Wild animals play a vital role in our ecosystem, and elephants are no exception. However, sometimes these magnificent creatures become injured or distressed due to various reasons such as natural disasters, habitat loss, poaching, or human-wildlife conflict. In such cases, it is our responsibility to help them. This guide provides tips on how to rescue an injured baby tusker and ensure its proper treatment and care.

Assess the Situation

Assessing the situation before approaching the injured baby tusker is crucial to ensure your safety and the tusker’s well-being. First, determine whether the tusker is alone or with its mother. If with its mother, it’s best to wait for professional help or keep a safe distance to avoid disturbing the mother and her calf. Secondly, check if the tusker is aggressive or disoriented. If so, it’s best to call for help andaoid approaching the animal. Lastly, check if there is a nearby herd that could pose a threat. If yes, keep your distance and wait for help.

Call for Help

Rescuing an injured baby tusker is not a task to be taken lightly. It requires expertise, proper equipment, and careful handling. Therefore, it’s best to call local wildlife authorities or veterinarians for assistance. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to treat the tusker properly. In case of an emergency, call an animal rescue organization or a wildlife hotline for immediate assistance.

Keep a Safe Distance

Even if the baby tusker appears calm, it’s essential to keep a safe distance. Wild animals can be unpredictable, and the tusker may become agitated or distressed. Therefore, stay at least 100 meters away from the tusker andaoid making direct eye contact. If you need to move closer, do so gradually and cautiously, always keeping a safe distance.

Provide Water

Dehydration is a common issue for injured animals, and providing water is crucial to their recovery. Use a hose or bucket to provide a gentle stream of water. If the tusker is too weak to drink on its own, use a syringe to provide water directly. However, be careful not to force water into its mouth, as it can cause choking.

Avoid Feeding

Feeding an injured baby tusker can cause more harm than good. The tusker may have specific dietary needs that you’re not aware of, and improper feeding can cause digestive issues. Moreover, feeding can cause the tusker to become dependent on humans for food, which is not healthy for the animal in the long run. Therefore, avoid feeding the animal and let the professionals take care of its dietary needs.

Monitor the Tusker

Once the tusker has been treated, it’s essential to monitor its progress. Keep a safe distance and observe the tusker’s behavior. If it appears to be struggling, call for help immediately. Moreover, keep an eye on the wound or injury to ensure that it’s healing correctly. In case of any signs of infection or deterioration, call for professional help.

Conclusion

Rescuing an injured baby tusker is a delicate and complicated process that requires caution and expertise. By following these tips, you can help ensure the tusker’s safety and health. Remember always to prioritize your safety and call for professional help when necessary. Let’s join hands to protect our wildlife and preserve our ecosystem for future generations.