The keepers at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Voi sanctuary awoke to find Naipoki, an orphaned elephant previously in their care, waiting outside the stockades. It soon became clear that she had a wound on her rump.
‘While it was nothing serious, it was sufficiently infected to cause discomfort, said the trust. ‘We immediately called our SWT/KWS Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit to the scene, and Dr Poghon was able to walk right up to her and dart her before commencing treatment. The other orphans stood by, curious but not upset, aware that their friend was just receiving the help she needed.’
Bunked with orphans for the night
Once the treatment was complete, Naipoki was soon back on her feet but seemed in no rush to leave. She seemed delighted to be reunited with her friends and joined them in the stockades for the night, ‘bunking up with the other orphans as if this was something she did every night. She is clearly relishing her sojourn at home after a long trek to get here.’
Naipoki travelled upwards of 80 kilometres to return to Voi. ‘Even long after they have transitioned from our care, our orphans know that they can always circle back to us in their hour of need’.
‘Naipoki and Panda are delighted to meet up with each other again after many months apart’ Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Naipoki with a small wound on her rump. Image: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Naipoki had not bee seen for several months. After being rehabilitated, she transitioned from the trust’s care in 2019, joining an ex orphan herd in the wild. The herd last visited Voi just before Christmas 2020, remaining in the area for several weeks before taking their leave in January. It was unusual that Naipoki had turned up alone, as this particular ex orphan herd typically travels together.
She is expected to make a full and speedy recovery.
Read more here: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Naipoki Returns for Help
