Chanthaburi:A baby wild elephant successfully rejoined its herd after being rescued from a fishing net in Chanthaburi province. The young elephant was found trapped in the Khlong Phawa Yai reservoir, with its leg entangled in a net, before being freed by officials and volunteers.
According to Thai News Agency, images released by the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary show the baby elephant standing and drinking its mother's milk, later sleeping safely under her belly. This followed the rescue operation where officials used a boat to cut the net and free the calf. Despite initially swimming back to its herd, the calf got stuck on an underwater obstruction. Officials intervened, relocating the calf closer to its herd, where it was eventually retrieved by its mother and the herd.
The incident, which occurred on November 6th, prompted officials to use a drone for tracking the baby elephant's movements. The Khlong Ruea Taek Ranger Unit and Mobile Operation Team 9 were involved in the rescue, ensuring the calf's safe return to the herd. Following the successful reunion, a rapid response team has been tasked with monitoring the herd to prevent similar incidents.
Meanwhile, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation advised the public to avoid approaching wild elephants and to report sightings outside protected areas to local officials or the forest protection hotline.
In related news, an orphaned wild elephant calf at Khao Soi Dao is showing signs of recovery under the care of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The calf, found near its deceased mother, is being closely monitored by veterinarians and is adjusting well to its environment. The department urges public cooperation to limit visits and food donations to ensure the calf's proper health recovery and eventual release back into the wild.