Sighting of the Quarter - TsiTsi the Orphaned Elephant Baby

Africa's winter (North American summer) is a busy rescue season for elephants in Botswana. Due to the dryness and lack of vegetation, wild herds are moving great distances for water and to forage. Not a good time for vulnerable babies!

The owners and managers of Elephant Havens recently spotted movement in the reeds off the deck of the camp's main area. A small baby appeared in the company of two solo males, separated from its matriarchal herd, the little one injured, weak and entirely tail-less. There was no way this baby would survive on its own! 

After quick calls to Botswana Wildlife for rescue permission and to the vet for assistance, less than two hours later little Tsitsiriga (TsiTsi) had been gathered by the team and brought into the quarantine center. There, experts could address the fresh wounds on her rump, which were apparently caused by hyenas (no scratches from big cat claws). Her tail had also been taken very recently, all the way to its base. After administering antibiotics and applying antiseptic, she is now resting, healing and enjoying a fresh start.