Sri Lankan Tusker Kawanthissa, who sustained a gunshot injury to his front right leg after falling victim to a trap gun in the Siyambalangamuwa area, has shown significant signs of recovery and rejoined a herd of approximately 15 wild elephants following continuous treatment by wildlife veterinarians.
According to the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the tusker’s condition has gradually improved after receiving antibiotics and other necessary medication over several days, with veterinarians observing a reduction in both the swelling and the wound on his injured leg.
A team of wildlife officers, including the Mighalewa Wildlife Range Officer, has been continuously monitoring Kawanthissa’s movements and health condition.
The treatment is being carried out by a veterinary team comprising Chandana Jayasinghe, Ananda Dharmakeerthi, Akalanka Pinidiya, Isuru Hewakottage and Pubudu Adassuriya.
Wildlife officials said Kawanthissa was recently observed moving with a herd of around 15 elephants, indicating encouraging progress in his recovery.
Officers approached the tusker for close observation at approximately 4.00 am on September 29 and again at around 10.30 pm on September 30, during which he was found to be in good health.
However, during one of the monitoring attempts, Kawanthissa reportedly chased the wildlife team, apparently reacting to the repeated medical procedures and painful injections administered to sedate him during treatment.
One wildlife officer reportedly fell while attempting to escape from the charging tusker.
Meanwhile, the Department of Wildlife Conservation has issued a special request to photographers, social media content creators and members of the public to refrain from approaching Kawanthissa or gathering near reservoirs to photograph him.
According to wildlife officials, Kawanthissa and the herd frequently visit reservoirs in the area during the evening to drink water. However, nearby villagers have complained that crowds gathering to observe the elephants have caused the animals to become agitated and move towards residential areas instead of entering the reservoirs.
The Department has urged the public to cooperate with wildlife veterinarians by allowing sufficient space to monitor the tusker’s recovery without disturbing him or the accompanying herd.
Officials stressed that unnecessary human presence could interfere with ongoing veterinary observations and the natural movements of the elephants. (Newswire)
The post Injured Tusker Kawanthissa rejoins elephant herd following treatment appeared first on Newswire.