An elephant stuck in a 45-foot well in Tsavo West for over 12 hours was rescued in a dramatic 22-hour operation that captivated onlookers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
On the 19th of April 2024, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust received a distressing report: a sub-adult elephant had fallen into a well on a community ranch south of Tsavo West National Park. Despite the late hour, a swift response was mobilized, with the SWT/KWS Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit and KWS rangers joining the effort.
Arriving at the scene in Kuranze, responders were met with a harrowing sight. The well was deep and steep, presenting a formidable challenge for extraction. But the most concerning aspect was the water level. The elephant, fully submerged, could only be seen by the top of his body, as he valiantly treaded water in the confined space.
Determined not to abandon the distressed animal, rescuers rallied together for a grueling all-night effort.
Rescuers used three water pumps to lower the water levels of the well, and to help the elephant survive.
After an exhausting struggle, the water levels were finally lowered, allowing the elephant to stand comfortably. Yet, the challenge was far from over. The monumental task of hoisting the massive creature out of the well lay ahead.
A supersized crane, procured from Mombasa through treacherous terrain, arrived on the scene. With meticulous precision, a team led by KWS veterinarian Dr. Limo and SWT pilot Roan Carr-Hartley descended into the well, securing straps around the sedated elephant’s body.
A ranger had to support the sedated elephant’s trunk to prevent it from inhaling wate
In a suspenseful moment, the crane lifted the elephant to freedom. Once on solid ground, Dr. Limo administered vital medication to prevent pneumonia, ensuring the elephant’s recovery.
Remarkably, despite the arduous ordeal, the elephant walked off into the bush, a symbol of resilience and survival.
Reflecting on the extraordinary rescue, one team member shared, “He was fighting so hard to live. We had to fight alongside him.”
By Vivian K.