DSWT All Mobile Veterinary Unit Quarterly Report July to September 2014

MOBILE VET UNITS TSAVO – MARA – MERU AMBOSELI QUARTERLY REPORT JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2014

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MOBILE VETERINARY UNITS OVERVIEW JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2014 During the July to September 3-month reporting period the DSWT in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service and their four dedicated KWS field veterinary officers, treated 103 wildlife cases.

The majority of these cases treated by the Tsavo, Mara, Meru or Amboseli Veterinary Units included elephants; out of 65 elephants treated overall, 18 were treated for poisoned arrow wounds, 13 for spear wounds, 5 for bullet wounds and 5 for snare injuries, whilst other cases included post-mortems, natural causes and nonmedical cases.

Other wildlife cases included lions, black and white rhinos, buffalos and a number of other species.

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Out of all of these emergency operations 73% of the treatments had a successful outcome, whilst 18% of the cases were sadly reached too late to save. Those 4% of cases given a poor prognosis have been monitored by all parties involved in the operation, with one of the Mobile Veterinary Units close at hand should a follow up treatment be needed.

Above and beyond these permanent mobile veterinary operations the DSWT/KWS Sky Vet program has also been active in supporting the field units when cases reported are unable to be attended. The Sky Vet report will be published on the DSWT website in November 2014.

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TSAVO MOBILE VET UNIT QUARTERLY REPORT JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2014

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TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2014 Introduction The month of July like the previous months witnessed a significant reduction in wildlife injury cases handled as compared to the same period last year. This has been attributed to heightened security patrols by the KWS/DSWT rangers and good rains received earlier in the year; although a number of the cases handled had to be euthanized due to untreatable injuries sustained especially fractures affecting the skeletal system.

Disease surveillance was done in Shimba hills which formed part of a PHD study of one of the vet staff from Nairobi where several species that included Buffaloes, the rare sable antelope, warthogs, Hartebeest and Bush buck were sampled for further disease investigation. The security situation is expected to remain good in the region.

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Shortening of an elephant tusk growing towards the facial bones in Tsavo East, 4 July

Case History This is the second elephant with tusk abnormality that grows towards the facial bones instead of straight out rostrally. The caudal carving of the tusks towards the facial bones is believed to be a genetic problem in the elephant’s genes and has no treatment other than trimming to alleviate more injury to the face.

Immobilization and tusk trimming The elephant was immobilized using 16 mgs of etorphine delivered through a dan inject dart gun from the safety of a vehicle. She was separated from the other family members and after anesthesia set in. She had to be rolled over as she fell with the malformed tusk on the lower side.

A hacksaw was used to cut a third of the coiled tusk and the skin area wounded by the tusk cleaned, disinfected and green clay applied.

Prognosis She was finally revived and rejoined her family that was waiting nearby, and will have no further side effects

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Rescue of an abandoned elephant calf near Satao, Tsavo, 7 July

An elephant calf was spotted near Satao wandering alone and a team from the DSWT rushed in to find the lone elephant calf in open grassland. The calf was captured and driven to a nearby airstrip where he was loaded to an aircraft and taken to Nairobi orphanage. He was later named Kono but sadly died soon after arrival.

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Shimba Hills Reserve wildlife disease sampling, 5 – 8 July

Case History Shimba Hills National Reserve is among several reserves managed by KWS situated in coastal Kenya and contains many wildlife species among them Elephants, rare sable antelope, Buffaloes, waterbuck, Impalas and warthogs.

Many factors have been associated with lack of an increase in wildlife population numbers especially of the endangered Sable antelope. Some of the factors include diseases, predation and poaching among other factors.

The study done as part of a PhD study was aimed at understanding the disease status of the different wildlife populations in the reserve. The animals were immobilized using the standard protocols for each species and blood, tissue and external parasites samples taken.

Chemical immobilization was used to capture sable, buffalo, Hartebeest and Bush buck while net capture method was used to capture warthogs.

A total of 19 buffaloes, 5 sables, 4 warthogs, 1 bushbuck and 1 hartebeest were sampled and samples processed and stored in liquid nitrogen for further analysis.

The rare sable antelope shortly after anesthetic reversal, Shimba hills national reserve

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Rescue of an elephant calf with limb fracture in Satao, Tsavo East 15 July

Case History Satao waterhole is visited by hundreds of elephants daily to drink the now scarcely available water in the region. This is a prime point to spot injured elephants from as far as Kulalu Hills.

On this day an injured elephant calf was seen limping near the water hole and could not move far. The vet team together with the DSWT stockade staff rushed to the area to find the sickly lame calf near the water hole. He was subdued and anaesthetized using 4 mgs of etorphine intravenously. On examination, a penetrating wound was discovered on the facial bones plus a complete fracture of the right humeral bone due to an unknown cause.

He was treated with dexamethasone and amoxicillin long acting both intramuscularly and transported to Voi stockades for overnight stay before he was airlifted to Nairobi for specialized treatment.

UPDATE: Sadly this calf, which was named Rasasi, had severe injuries and had to be euthanized

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Clinical intervention of a young elephant bull with a fracture in Pikapika area of Taita ranch, 20 July

Case History The elephant was reported by the security teams within Taita ranches as having fallen into a water dam near pikapika.

The team rushed to find the nearly submerged elephant struggling to breath by lifting its trunk above the water.

Ropes were used to pull him out of water for close up examination of the injured leg. Examination revealed a complete fracture of the left humeral bone with massive bleeding with very poor prognosis.

The elephant was euthanized to end his suffering as he would have died with or without treatment. Autopsy confirmed complex fracture of the right humeral bone, muscle tissue damage and rapture of radial arteries. The tusks were retrieved and handed to KWS rangers.

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Desnaring of an elephant bull near Satao water hole, Tsavo East 21 July

Case History The elephant bull was seen near Satao water hole with a long wire snare around his face and cutting behind the left ear lobe. Snares are usually laid by poachers to catch small game and buffaloes but end up snaring elephants in the process.

Darting and treatment The elephant was darted using 16 mgs of etorphine from a dan inject dart system. The elephant was rolled over as it fell on the injured side. The tight wire snare around the face was cut loose and the wounds on the face and base of the ear cleaned with hydrogen peroxide, doused with tincture of iodine and covered with green clay.

Long acting antibiotics and painkillers were administered parenterally.

Full recovery is expected after a month.

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Treatment of a mange infected Grants Gazelle in Aruba Tsavo east, 21 July

Case History After the treatment of the snared elephant the team stumbled on a restless and disturbed Grants Gazelle near Aruba lodge. On closer examination a mange-like skin infection was noted and immobilization drugs were quickly prepared. A mixture of 1 mg etorphine hcl and 5 mgs xylazine hcl was used in the darting. Deep skin scrapings were taken and put in a universal bottle.

Due to lack of processing chemicals, they were submitted to Nairobi wildlife laboratory for analysis. Mange is a skin infestation caused by parasitic mites. There are usually two common types of mange, sarcoptic and demodectic mange mites that affect a wide range of both domestic and wild animals including man.

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Treatment of an injured elephant bull near Dakota, Tsavo east, 24 July

Case History The huge elephant bull was located still bleeding from a fresh arrow injury in Dakota plains. The bull was in the company of a younger bull foraging in the plains with clear fresh blood marks on the left thigh.

Immobilization and treatment The bull was immobilized using 18 mgs of etorphine propelled from a dan inject dart system. He went down after 7 minutes.

The point of bleeding was cleaned to expose a penetrating wound which was probed deep into the muscles without getting anything. Deeper probing revealed a deeply embedded poisoned arrow head that took about 15 minutes to remove.

The wound was cleaned and antibiotics applied. The wound was finally covered with green clay. Plenty of water was poured on the ears to cool him. Prognosis is good.

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TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2014 Introduction The August weather was cool and dry like most times of the season with large numbers of elephants thronging the artificial water points to quench their thirst.

The long distances they cover from foraging to watering points leads to exhaustion and sometimes the death of young calves, yet this wasn’t experienced this year. Cases handled this month include the de-snaring of a young elephant bull in the Shimba Hills, treatment of a bull with an arrow wound near Murondo fence line and another bull in Ithumba. Other species included a snared impala treated near Tsavo east park headquarters.

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Desnaring of an elephant, Shimba Hills National Reserve, 10 August 2014

Case History The elephant was spotted by rangers with a wire snare around its foreleg along the Kwale-Kinango road inside the reserve and reported to the vet office. Previous two attempts to trace him failed but finally he was found beside the road on the second attempt.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was immobilized using 16 mgs of etorphine propelled in a dan inject dart system. He ran into the forest and fell about a hundred meters away. The search was conducted and he was found before darkness fell.

The wire snare was cut loose, the wounds were cleaned with hydrogen peroxide mixed in water and later doused with tincture of iodine, before green clay was used to cover the wound.

Injectable dexamethasone and long acting amoxicillin were administered parenterally. He was revived by administration of 48 mgs of diprenorphine intravenously.

Prognosis is good.

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Treatment of an elephant bull, Tsavo East NP, 11 August 2014

Case History The elephant was spotted by KWS rangers with a wound on the side of the body and pus draining from the site.

He was in a group of about 50 other elephants next to the fence line.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant was darted from a vehicle using 18 mgs of etorphine propelled in a dan inject dart system. The elephant went into recumbency in 7 minutes.

The wounded area possibly caused by an arrow was cleaned and with hydrogen peroxide mixed in water at a ratio of 1:1, doused with tincture of iodine and covered in green clay. Parenteral dexamethasone was also administered.

Drug was reversed using 56 mgs of diprenorphine injected intravenously into the ear veins and the elephant was up within a minute.

Prognosis is good.

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Desnaring of an impala, Tsavo East NP, 18 August 2014

Case History The Impala was seen with a strangulating wire around the neck and barely able to breathe near Voi gate. He could have been snared after straying out of the fence line into the community area.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The Impala was immobilized using 1.5 mgs etorphine and 5 mgs xylazine Hcl. The Impala went into apnea due to the suffocating snare. The snare was loosened and anesthesia quickly revived using 1 mg of Naltexone and 0.5 cc Atipemazole Hcl. A quick injection of Doxopram kick started the respiration. A matched cut on the horn posed no immediate danger. A final 4 mgs of diprorphine Hcl ensured there is no re-narcotization.

Prognosis is good.

(NO IMAGES AVAILABLE)

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Treatment of an injured elephant bull, Ithumba Tsavo East, 22 August 2014

Case History The elephant was seen with injuries on one side of the body while drinking water near Ithumba elephant stockade. Due to the rough terrain and thick bush the DSWT helicopter was called for assistance.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The elephant fell on the injured side and had to be pulled over in order to expose the injured area. A tractor was used to flip the huge mass but the ropes kept on breaking and only managed to flip the elephant after several attempts.

On closer inspection the spear wound was found to have healed and needed little treatment. The elephant was given dexamethasone to relief capture stress and revived using 60 mgs of diprenorphine intravenously.

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Treatment of an injured elephant, Satao Tsavo East, 27 August 2014 (Dr Njoroge)

Case History th On 26 August 2014 the DSWT received word of an injured bull elephant from the management of Satao Camp.

The large male had been sighted at the watering hole with a seeping wound on his right flank. The Burra team was sent to locate the elephant but by the time it was seen it was too late for the vet to respond. The vet attached to the Tsavo Conservation Area was away and so the Amboseli vet responded to this case. A plan was put in place for the vet to make his way to Kilaguni in Tsavo West by car where another elephant was in need of follow up treatment for a leg injury. Once the Satao elephant had been sighted, Dr. Njoroge would be collected in a Super Cub and taken there. The elephant was darted and the wound was investigated. Dr. Njoroge confirmed that an arrow had caused the infection. The wound was cleaned and lanced to allow puss to drain and then packed full of green clay before the elephant was injected with long-lasting antibiotics and antiinflammatories and revived.

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Treatment of an injured elephant, Kilaguni, Tsavo West, 27 August 2014 (Dr Njoroge of the Amboseli Vet Unit)

Case History The day was not yet over for Dr. Njoroge, however, who was flown back to Kilaguni Safari Lodge to see to the young male waiting for retreatment for a snake bite in front of a hotel. Although this young elephant, nicknamed “Lucky” by the lodge staff, looked to be in a terrible state as he limped on three legs.

As the sun went down, Dr. Njoroge and his assistants cared for Lucky, cleaning out superficial wounds, likely brought on by the snake’s venom migrating throughout the body. The infection on the leg was also inspected and appeared to be recovering nicely, with almost no puss present. With the lodge staff and a few tourists looking on from a safe distance, Dr. Njoroge revived Lucky and he rose painfully to his feet and stayed in place, unthreatened by his onlookers but also undoubtedly in too much pain to make a retreat. However, the doc was happy with the outcome of both cases.

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TSAVO MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2014 Introduction The month of September witnessed a big increase in the number of wildlife treated as compared to previous months of the year. Case increase was mainly observed in elephant bulls injured by use of arrow shots in unsuccessful poaching attempts. The drastic increase is associated with the dry spell that forces wildlife to travel for long distances and sometimes outside the park in search of water and forage. Many of the injuries reported occurred in Satao, Aruba and Ithumba areas and involved mainly large tusked bulls.

During the Month an elephant orphan was euthanized after sustaining a grievous injury from a hyena attack at the Ithumba stockade and a lioness was collared in Kuku Ranch to aid in human-wildlife conflict. Rains are expected soon and the vet case load is expected to decrease as more wildlife utilise the more secure boundaries within the park.

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Treatment of an injured elephant bull with an arrow wound in Satao area, 1 September 2014 (Sky Vet Dr Kaitho)

History This elephant was living in a family of 7 males and had sustained an arrow wound.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl(0.98%) (M99®) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared.

Helicopter darting was carried out. The first dart bounced off. We decided to do vehicle darting which worked well. Using a Dan inject® dart rifle (Dan-inject APS, Sellerup Skovvej, Denmark) the elephant was darted; he was immobilized after 10 minutes.

Examination and wounds management The elephant had sustained a penetrating wound with sharp edges made by an arrow head which had dislodged. This suppurative wound was cleaned and lavaged with copious amounts of water and tincture iodine to remove pus and mud, and then liberally lavaged with dilute hydrogen peroxide. Oxytetracycline spray (Alamycin® spray) (Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) was also applied. The wound was also covered with green clay to promote faster healing. The elephant was injected with Oxytetracycline 20000mg (Alamycin® LA 20%Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) i.m.

Animal care during anaesthesia Animal was doused with plenty of water and the eye covered with the pinna of the ear.

Reversal of anaesthesia Using 60mg of diprenorphine Hcl (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) given IV at the ear vein the animal was reversed from anaesthesia, (a ¼ of the dose was given i.m.). We assisted the elephant to stand up. Recovery was good.

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Treatment of an injured elephant bull, Satao, Tsavo East NP, 1 September 2014 (Sky Vet Dr Kaitho)

History This elephant was living in a large family. We followed this elephant to a water hole.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl(0.98%) (M99®) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared.

Helicopter darting was carried out. Using a Dan inject® dart rifle (Dan-inject APS, Sellerup Skovvej, Denmark) the elephant was darted; he was immobilized after 10 minutes.

Examination and wounds management Examination of elephant showed a huge swelling filled with pus on the left flank extending from the side to the inguinal area. The abscess was lanced and drained. The suppurative mass was cleaned and lavaged with copious amounts of water and tincture iodine to remove pus and then liberally lavaged with dilute hydrogen peroxide.

The cavity was also lavaged with i.v fluids (Normal Saline and Ringers Lactate solution) Oxytetracycline spray (Alamycin® spray) (Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) was also applied. The surgical wounds were also covered with green clay to promote faster healing.

The elephant was injected with the following, • Amoxicillin Trihydrate BP 30000mg (Betamox® LA Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) i.m.

• Flunixin meglumine 2500mg ((Norbrook Laboratories Ireland)) i.m.

Animal care during anaesthesia Animal was doused with plenty of water and the eye covered with the pinna of the ear.

Reversal of anaesthesia Using 60mg of diprenorphine Hcl (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) given IV at the ear vein the animal was reversed from anaesthesia, (a ¼ of the dose was given i.m.). Recovery from anaesthesia was smooth and he limped away from the site.

Prognosis of the case Guarded

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Treatment of an elephant bull with an arrow wound, Powerline area Tsavo East, 5 September 2014

History The elephant was spotted with fresh arrow wound on the side of the body by DSWT aeroplane near Aruba-Sala road adjacent to the power line.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl(0.98%) (M99速) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared.

Helicopter darting was carried out. Using a Dan inject速 dart rifle the elephant was darted; he was immobilized after 10 minutes.

Examination and Wounds management The protruding arrow head was removed and the fresh wound cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide. Oxytetracycline spray (Alamycin速 spray) (Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) was also applied. The surgical wounds were also covered with green clay to promote faster healing. The elephant was injected with the following: Amoxicillin Trihydrate BP 30000mg (Betamox速 LA Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) i.m. and colvasone (Dexamethasone) administered i.v Reversal and prognosis The anaesthesia was reversed using 54 mgs of diprenorphine administered i.v in the ear vein. Prognosis given was good.

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Treatment of an injured elephant cow, Powerline, Tsavo east, 5th September 2014

History The elephant cow was spotted few minutes after the bull was treated with a big wound on the side of the stomach and pus dripping out. Immediately preparation to treat the elephant was mobilized.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl(0.98%) (M99速) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 16mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared.

Helicopter darting was carried out. Using a Dan inject速 dart rifle the elephant was darted and immobilized after 8 minutes.

Examination and wounds management The septic wound was cleaned using water mixed with hydrogen peroxide. Oxytetracycline spray (Alamycin速 spray) (Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) was also applied. The surgical wounds were also covered with green clay to promote faster healing. The elephant was injected with the following Amoxicillin Trihydrate BP 30000mg (Betamox速 LA Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) i.m And colvasone (Dexamethasone) administered i.v.

Reversal and prognosis 48 mgs of diprenorphine was used to reverse the anaesthesia and the elephant woke up on its own. Prognosis is good.

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Treatment of an injured elephant with an arrow wound, Aruba area, 5th September 2014

History The elephant was spotted near Aruba dam along Voi River with fresh blood dripping from the rump area. The huge bull was suspected to have been hit with an arrow. The team moved in swiftly and drugs were prepared for chopper darting.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl(0.98%) (M99®) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared.

Helicopter darting was carried out. Using a Dan inject® dart system the elephant was darted and was immobilized after 9 minutes.

Examination and wounds management The wounded area was examined and a sharp cut wound suspected to be caused by an arrow shot was seen.

Surgical exploratory didn’t reveal the deep seated arrow head. The wound was cleaned with hydrogen peroxide and iodine applied. The elephant was injected with the following: Amoxicillin Trihydrate BP 30000mg (Betamox® LA Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) i.m and colvasone (Dexamethasone) administered i.v. Close monitoring was advised.

Reversal The anaesthesia was reversed using 24 mgs of diprenorphine mixed with 25 mg of naltrexone and the elephant woke up well.

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Translocation of a problematic elephant from Manyani to Aberdare National Park, 6th September

History The young bull has been causing a lot of problems at the Manyani law enforcement academy and had been previously moved to Mzima springs but returned few days later. A team from Nairobi worked with the Tsavo Vet unit in this operation.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 16mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant by use of a helicopter. The elephant was immobilized after 8 minutes after being driven near an open area by the chopper.

Loading and translocation A self-loading truck was used to lower the elephant crate to the ground and the elephant was loaded into the container while immobilized before he was revived while in the crate. Finally the crane attached to the truck was used to lift the crate loaded with the elephant onto the back of the truck ready for transport.

Revival The anaesthesia was reversed using 48 mgs of diprenorphine injected intravenously. 50 mgs of azaperone was also administered to calm down the elephant while on transit. The team from Nairobi left and successfully released the elephant in Aberdare National Park.

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Treatment of injured elephant bull, Satao, Tsavo East NP, 8th September 2014

History Several huge elephant bulls were sighted within Satao area of Tsavo East with arrow wound injuries. The vet team together with two aircrafts that included a helicopter descended to the area and after a short search several of the candidates were spotted.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99®) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant by use of a helicopter. The elephant was immobilized in 7 minutes.

Examination and Treatment The wounded area was examined and found to be healing leaving a scar on the left flank and didn’t require much attention. Dexamethasone was administered.

Reversal Reversal was by use of 60 mgs of diprenorphine Hcl in the ear vein.

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Treatment of an elephant bull with an arrow wound, Satao, Tsavo East, 8

September 2014

History Several huge elephant bulls were sighted within Satao area of Tsavo east with arrow wound injuries. The vet team together with two aircrafts that included a helicopter descended in the area and after a short search several of the candidates were spotted.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant by use of a helicopter. The elephant was immobilized in 8 minutes.

Examination and Treatment The wound was examined and found to be on the right side of the stomach and was in the process of healing.

The suspected arrow wound was cleaned using hydrogen peroxide mixed with water and doused with tincture of iodine. Dexamethasone was administered intravenously.

Reversal Reversal was by use of 60 mgs of diprenorphine Hcl in the ear vein.

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Treatment of an elephant bull, Satao, Tsavo East, 8 September 2014

History Several huge elephant bulls were sighted within Satao area of Tsavo east with arrow wound injuries. The vet team together with two aircrafts that included a helicopter descended in the area and after a short search several of the candidates were spotted.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant by use of a helicopter. The elephant was immobilized in 12 minutes.

Examination and Treatment There was a wound on the left hind limb near the ramp with a second wound at the left inguinal area. The wound were enlarged and necrotic tissues mixed with pus removed from under. The cavity left behind by dead tissues was cleaned using hydrogen peroxide mixed with water, doused with tincture of iodine and covered with green clay. Long acting Amoxicillin and Dexamethasone administered parenterally.

Anaesthesia reversal Reversed by administration of 60 mgs of diprenorphine hcl administered intravenously through the ear vein.

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10. Treatment of an injured elephant bull, Satao, Tsavo East, 8th September 2014 History Several huge elephant bulls were sited within Satao area of Tsavo east with arrow wound injuries. The vet team together with two aircrafts that included a helicopter descended in the area and after a short search several of the candidates were spotted.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant by use of a helicopter. The elephant was immobilized in 10 minutes.

Examination and Treatment There was a wound was on the upper part of the left hind limb on the lateral aspect. The wound was oozing pus but not swollen. The wound was cleaned using hydrogen peroxide mixed with water and doused with tincture of iodine. Wetted green clay was used to cover the wound. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally.

Anaesthetic reversal Reversed by administration of 60 mgs of diprenorphine hcl administered intravenously through the ear vein.

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11. Clinical assessment of an orphan attacked by Hyenas, Ithumba stockades, 10th September History The young elephant orphan (named Sabatchi) was reported to have been attacked by hyenas near Ithumba stockades and rescued by the stockade staff. The vet was airlifted to Ithumba from Voi. Examination and management He was already recumbent and several attempts to lift him up proved futile. Mucous membranes were pale with very cold extremities a sign of massive blood loss. The perineal area had a huge lacerations caused by Hyena attacks. 2 mgs of etorphine were injected intravenously to reduce pain.

Prognosis The prognosis of healing being very poor, a decision euthanize was made to end his suffering. (photos unavailable)

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12. Treatment of an injured elephant bull with an arrow wound, Ithumba, 12

September 2014

History The big bull was seen foraging near Ithumba offices together with former orphans with an arrow wound on the left side of the abdominal wall. Being in a group of friendly former orphans, darting was easy.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant on foot. The elephant was immobilized in 11 minutes.

Examination and Treatment The elephant fell on sternal recumbency and was blocked by a tree on one side and a ditch on the other. A decision to attend to him and reverse the anaesthesia fast was the most feasible. The arrow head was removed quickly and wound cleaned and tincture of iodine applied.

Anaesthesia reversal Quick reversed by administration of 24 mgs of diprenorphine and 25 mgs of naltrexone both intravenous.

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13. Treatment of two security dogs in Ithumba, 12th September 2014 History The two dogs had been reported sick with the male manifesting signs of orchitis externa and the bitch with impaction and difficulty in passing stool.

Examination and treatment General examination confirmed the diagnosis and treatment was immediately instituted. The case with orchitis was treated with 4 cc of long acting Amoxicillin and 5 cc of dexamethasone both administered intra muscularly.

The case with impaction was given 10 cc of liquid paraffin after meals.

Prognosis Both cases responded well. (photos unavailable)

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14. Treatment of an injured elephant bull with an arrow wound, Satao-Kulalu area, Tsavo East, 15 September

History Several huge elephant bulls were sighted within Satao area of Tsavo East with arrow wound injuries. The vet team together with two aircrafts which included the helicopter returned to the area and after a short search several injured elephants were spotted. This huge tusker had an injury on the left hind leg and was in a group of 7 other huge bulls.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant by use of a helicopter. The elephant was immobilized in 10 minutes.

Examination and Treatment There was a wound was on the upper part of the left thoracic cage. The wound was oozing pus but and slightly swollen. The wound was cleaned using hydrogen peroxide mixed with water and doused with tincture of iodine.

Wetted green clay was used to cover the wound. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally.

Anaesthetic reversal Reversed by administration of 60 mgs of diprenorphine hcl administered intravenously through the ear vein.

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15. Treatment of an elephant bull, Voi River near Satao, Tsavo East, 15 September 2014 History Several huge elephant bulls were sighted within Satao area of Tsavo East with arrow wound injuries. The vet team together with two aircrafts that included a helicopter returned to the area and after a short search several injured elephants were spotted.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant by use of a helicopter. The elephant was immobilized in 10 minutes.

Examination and Treatment There was a wound on the upper part of the right thigh. The wound was reddish and appeared fresh but closer examination revealed a growth. The growth was cut off and the wound was cleaned using hydrogen peroxide mixed with water and doused with tincture of iodine. Wetted green clay was used to cover the wound. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally. The huge bull is one of the iconic big tuskers still remaining in the Tsavo Conservation Area.

Anaesthetic reversal Reversed by administration of 60 mgs of diprenorphine hcl administered intravenously through the ear vein.

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16. Translocation of a buffalo, Komboyo to Tsavo River (Rhodesia) in Tsavo West, 17th September 2014 History This adult female buffalo was moved from the KWS Nairobi Orphanage due to congestion at the facility. The buffalo was released near Komboyo Park headquarters in Tsavo yet entered the Park headquarters compound and became a threat to staff and families residing in the Park and had to be moved.

Immobilization and transport The buffalo was immobilized using 7 mgs of etorphine mixed with 60 mgs of Xylazine hydrochloride and went down in 12 minutes. An animal stretcher was used to load the buffalo into a land cruiser pickup and transported to the Rhodesia area along Tsavo River where it was offloaded and given antibiotics and multivitamins before anaesthesia reversal.

Anaesthetic reversal Anaesthesia was reversed by injection of 24 mgs of diprenorphine hcl and 2.5 mgs of Atipemazole hcl administered intravenously via the jugular vein.

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17. Treatment of a warthog piglet, Tsavo East Park Headquarters, Tsavo East, 22

September 2014

History The warthog piglet was rescued after sustaining deep puncture wound from an attack by eagle predators near Galana ranch east of Tsavo East NP. The piglet was feeding well on milk.

Examination and treatment The piglet had deep cut wounds on both sides of the shoulder caused by eagle claws. The wounds were washed with normal saline and crystalline penicillin splashed. Nylon sutures were used to close the wounds using an interrupted suture pattern. Anti-inflammatory and antibiotics were also administered.

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18. Rescue of a malnourished elephant calf, Ngutuni, Tsavo East, 22nd September 2014 History The young elephant was reported being recumbent near a water hole along Mzima pipeline by Ngutuni lodge staff. She was unable to wake up let alone move.

Immobilization and transport The elephant was immobilized by injection of 2 mgs of etorphine hcl into the ear vein. Lots of water was used to cool her. The body condition was estimated at 2/5 as muscle wasting was evident. The calf was loaded onto a truck and taken to Voi stockade for further medical attention. Intravenous dextrose solution managed to stabilise the calf upon arrival at the stockade. She succumbed two days later and the diagnosis was given as starvation.

Cases of mortalities in young calves that are no longer suckling occur often in the parks especially during the dry season when forage and water is scarce.

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19. Lion collaring exercise, Kuku Ranch (Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust), 27

September 2014

History Kuku Ranch is expansive community land belonging to the Maasai community located west of Tsavo West NP and also bordering Chyulu Hills NP and Mbirikani group ranch. It forms part of the Tsavo-Amboseli ecosystem with abundant wildlife species including lions.

The Maasai being pastoralists where they keep livestock as the main economic activity, conflict with wildlife especially predators is a major problem. The Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust (MWCT) came with a programme to collar some lions with satellite linked collars in order to monitor the movements and mitigate predation problems.

Immobilization and collaring The exercise was undertaken at night unsuccessfully through call ups for two days. On the third day a pride was spotted near kuku plains and immobilization was done using 300mgs of Ketamine Hcl mixed with 4 mgs of medetomidine hcl. A repeat dart was used to ensure effective anaesthesia was achieved.

Several samples were taken including blood and tissue samples and the collar was well fitted and mounted around the neck with screws. Antibiotic and multivitamins were administered as cover.

Anaesthesia reversal 2.5 mgs of Atipemazole Hcl was injected intramuscularly and a team left to keep watch until the lioness wakes up.

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20. Treatment of a snared young elephant, Lualenyi ranch in Taita ranches, 30th September 2014 History The young elephant cow was reported to be lame with a swollen front leg near Lualenyi ranch within the Taita ranches.

Immobilization and Treatment Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 12 mgs, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant. The elephant was immobilized in 6 minutes.

Examination and Treatment There was a clear snare wound around the right front leg a few inches from the foot. The wound was cleaned using hydrogen peroxide mixed with water and doused with tincture of iodine. Wetted green clay was used to cover the wound. Long acting antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered parenterally. Green clay was used to cover the wounded site.

Anaesthetic reversal 24 mgs of Diprenorphine mixed with 25mgs of Naltrexone administered intravenously through the ear vein.

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21. Treatment of injured elephant bull with a bullet wound, Lualenyi ranch in Taita ranches, 30th September 2014 History The elephant bull was seen limping nearby after the treatment of a young female elephant nearby in Lualenyi ranch. It is suspected to have been shot with a bullet and walked with a lot of pain.

Immobilization and Treatment Etorphine Hcl (M99Ž) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18 mgs, in a 1.5 ml Dan – inject dart was used to immobilize the elephant. The elephant was immobilized in 7 minutes.

Examination and Treatment The area around the left shoulder joint had an open penetrating wound. On probing the wound was deep and affected the shoulder joint near the humero-scapula area. The wound was cleaned using normaline saline and doused with tincture of iodine. Oxytetracycline spray was sprayed and covered with green clay. Long acting Amoxicillin antibiotic and dexamethose injected to reduce inflammation and bacterial infection.

Anaesthetic reversal 24 mgs of Diprenorphine mixed with 25mgs of Naltrexone administered intravenously through the ear vein.

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Other cases reported a)

Two other elephant bulls were treated in Satao area of Tsavo east on 23rd September by the Amboseli vet unit.

Conclusion and acknowledgement Cases of arrow injuries especially in elephant bulls have increased tremendously due to the onset of the dry season, which has forced many animals to congregate in search of forage and water. Poisoned arrow poaching is a serious threat to the lives of the huge bulls in the ecosystem, yet with the Tsavo Vet Unit working full-time in the field all reports made of poaching incidences are immediately followed up for treatment.

The unit would like to appreciate the support of its sponsors ViER PFOTEN through the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) for their continued support, which has enabled us to respond promptly to wildlife emergencies.

The addition of the DSWT aircrafts and especially the helicopter has also greatly improved overall response time. We also would like to thank the Kenya Wildlife Service through the Assistant Director of the Tsavo Conservation Area and the KWS Veterinary and Capture Services Department for their support. Lastly I would like to thank the Sky Vet team in Nairobi and the Amboseli Vet Unit for their assistance while the unit was away.

Dr Jeremiah Poghon, KWS Veterinary Officer

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MARA MOBILE VET UNIT QUARTERLY REPORT JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2014

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MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2014 The month was characterized by minimal precipitation and the arrival of more tourists who come to see to the annual migration of wildebeests. The spearing of elephants is still rampant with three cases treated for spear wounds and another one for an arrow wound with retrieval of the arrow head.

Two massive bull elephants succumbed to deep injuries from spearing. A case of poisoning also featured during the month with five vulture carcasses collected and sampled. It is hardly three months since similar poisonings have occurred and samples revealed carbamates as the type of poison used. Following are cases handled during the month;

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Bull elephant at Siana conservancy, 1 July 2014

Clinical History Siana Conservancy scouts had seen a sickly looking elephant bull that had been stationery in one location for 3 days in a thick forested area of Siana Conservancy. They requested the Masai Mara Mobile Vet Unit for intervention.

Immobilization Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99®) (Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared.

Foot darting was carried out. Using a Dan inject dart rifle (Dan-inject APS, Seller up Skovvej, Denmark) the elephant was darted; the dart bounced off, A second dart containing 16mg of etorphine Hcl was attempted and he was immobilized after 10minutes from the second dart.

Examination On close examination the bull elephant was in poor to fair body condition, looked elderly and scrawny. A body condition score of 2-3. He had no significant physical injuries and on turning him to further examine we noticed nothing unusual. He had a small infected wound on the flank region. The wound was cleaned with copious amounts of water to remove mud and dirt, liberally cleaned with Tincture of iodine. The small purulent wound was also cleaned with dilute hydrogen peroxide and again liberally cleaned with Tincture of iodine.

Oxytetracycline spray (Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) was also applied. The elephant was injected with the Oxytetracycline 20000mg (Alamycin® LA 20%, Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) by intramuscular route.

Animal care during anaesthesia Animal was doused with plenty of water and the eye covered with the pinna of the ear.

Reversal of anaesthesia Using 60mg of diprenorphine Hcl (Novartis South Africa (Pty) Limited) given IV at the ear vein the animal was reversed from anaesthesia, (a ¼ of the dose was given i.m). Recovery from anaesthesia was smooth and he ambulated well.

Prognosis of the case Good

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Reprogramming of collars in wildebeests, Mara, 2 July 2014

Case History These migrating wildebeests were collared two years ago in Tanzania for research purposes. This research was facilitated by Glasgow University.

The wildebeests that were collared were traced to the Masai Mara while on their annual migration.

Transmission by the collars was due to expire by end of July and this prompted immediate reprogramming to avoid losing data.

This exercise was done in conjunction with the KWS headquarter capture team and saw five wildebeest collars reprogrammed. Appropriate dose of etorphine and azaperone was used based on the size of the wildebeest.

The exercise took one week from 1st July to 7th July and was successful.

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De-snaring of male zebra at Ololoolo area, 4 July 2014

Clinical History A common plains zebra had a strangulating wire snare which had cut deep into the neck muscles. He had been searched for more than 3 days and fortunately found on this day at 4.30 pm by Ms Ann K. Taylor and scouts team of Olonana Conservancy.

Immobilization Animal was darted with a Dan inject® rifle (Dan-inject APS, Seller up Skovvej, Denmark) using 2ml Dan inject dart. Etorphine Hcl 7mg (0.98%) (M99®)(Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Medetomidine 20mg (Kyron Laboratories (Pty) Ltd)South Africa, combination was used to induce and maintain anesthesia. Anesthesia was reversed using Diprenorphine Hcl 21mg (1.2%) (M5050®) Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) and Atipamizole 7.5mg (Antisedan®0.5% inj. Orion Pharma (Pfizer) Expoo, Finland)), given by intravenous route and a ¼ of the dose by intramuscular route.

Animal care during anaesthesia To lower elevated body temperature, the zebra was doused liberally with cold water. The animal was also blind folded to minimize external stimulation.

Management A zebra with wire snare was promptly desnared. The wound caused by wire snare around the neck was cleaned with copious amounts of water, to remove dirt. The wound was again liberally cleaned with Tincture of iodine.

Oxytetracycline spray (Norbrook Laboratories Ireland) was also applied.

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Suspected case of poisoning in vultures, Olare Orok, 7 July 2014

Case History Narok county government security team called to report this incident. They requested our services to try and determine the cause of death for these vultures. Five vultures had died within a radius of fifty meters from each other. Within their proximity was an old dismembered carcass suspected to have been of a Tomy gazelle. The carcasses appeared to have been between 72 to 96 hours old.

General examination of the carcass revealed the following: • Maggots had begun infesting on the carcass.

• The vulture appeared to have been in good condition and feeding immediately before death.

• Bloody (meleanic) faecal material was observed sticking on to the cloaca.

• The crop was engorged.

• Rigor mortis had already dissolved.

Post-mortem Examination On opening the carcass, the following observations were noted: The entire (both upper and lower system) gastrointestinal mucosa was eroded.

The crop was engorged with recently ingested flesh including ruminal tissues suspected to be from a small ruminant.

The ingested food appeared to have been laced with pinkish stuff.

The entire upper gastrointestinal tract had similar pinkish stuff but severely eroded.

Intestinal contents were meleanic.

Conclusion These vultures died under same circumstances as the hyenas and vultures that died three months ago near the same area. The results released by the analyst confirmed the pink substance was a carbamate. This too looks like a carbamate poisoning.

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De-snaring of an eland at Kichwa Tembo airstrip, 9 July 2014

Case History This female expectant eland was spotted by the Care for the Wild scouts. They duly informed the mobile veterinary team on the ground who responded immediately. The eland was in good health and in a herd with the shiny plain wire dangling from her neck.

Immobilization and removal of the snare Immobilization was achieved by use of 12mgs etorphine and 50mgs azaperone in a 1.5ml Daninject dart. The eland took off with two other elands before getting tranquilised after ten minutes. She was brought down with the help of ropes before the snare being removed. She was given an injection of 80mg ivermectin subcutaneously to reduce tick and internal parasite load. The procedure was done quickly to minimize complications as she was heavily pregnant.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 36mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through the jugular vein. She rose up and took off after two minutes.

Prognosis Good. There was no tissue injury.

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Post mortem of bull elephant near Mpata club Trans-Mara, 9 July 2014

History While busy de-snaring the eland, a call was made by the Mara Elephant Project team that they had spotted an elephant with a spear sticking into her left flank. We quickly finished with the eland that was already darted and rushed to the scene, but within twenty minutes of reporting they said the elephant had died.

General examination The elephant appeared to have been in perfect body condition before death with a body score of 4.5 in a scale of 1 to 5 where 5 is perfect and 1 poor.

• • • •

Both tusks were intact with the KWS security team retrieving them for safe custody.

The carcass was still fresh without rigor mortis.

Spear was sticking from his left flank.

No evidence of struggle before death at scene.

Post mortem examination Post mortem picture revealed the following: • • • • •

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The penetrating wound caused by the spear was 1.5 meters deep.

Rubber bands which formed the handle of the spear were trapped on the wound.

Faecal material was seeping through the wound.

The spear had damaged the stomach, small and large intestines including the liver. The faecal material had contaminated the peritoneal cavity.

The injury appeared fresh and could have been less than twenty four hours old.

Conclusion This elephant died due to septic shock as a result of severe peritonitis. Contamination of peritoneal cavity by faecal material lead to septic shock. Retrieval of spear confirms contribution of human activity to the death of this elephant and poaching being most likely the main motive.

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Treatment of sub adult male elephant at Naboisho conservancy, 12 July 2014

History; This case was reported to us by Naboisho conservancy management. He was spotted in a herd lagging behind and limping.

General examination This elephant was a distant from the other members of the family, distressed and had difficulty walking. He appeared to avoid putting weight on his right limb. The limb was swollen at the carpal joint with no discharge evident.

Immobilization and close examination.

Immobilization was achieved by administration of 10mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered remotely through a 1.5ml Daninject dart using a vehicle. The drugs took effect after seven minutes with the elephant assuming right lateral recumbency.

Close examination of the limb revealed an arrow head lodged on the medial aspect of his right carpal joint. The arrowhead could have been in place for the past three days. The arrow went deep and partly damaged the joint capsule. The wound was beginning to be infected.

Treatment The arrowhead retrieved by gently pulling it back while extending the entry point slightly because the arrow had hooks. The resultant wound was flushed with clean water and irrigated with lugols iodine.

Green clay was then applied. In addition 12000mgs of amoxicillin and 80mgs of Dexamethasone was given intramuscularly.

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Reversal This was achieved by administration of 36mgs diprenorphine intravenously through the ear vein. This elephant woke up after two minutes and walked to join other herd members.

Prognosis Favourable. Healing may involve arthrodesces of the joint.

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Elephant bull at Naboisho Conservancy,14 July 2014

Case History This bull was spotted by conservancy management in the company of ten other males forming a bull herd. He had a wound slightly off his dorsal midline on the left side of his withers. This wound was septic with evidence of purulent discharge. However he did not appear weakened at the time as he kept pace with the rest of the herd though he kept on throwing soil onto the wound and this distracted him from feeding.

Immobilization and examination Immobilization involved darting him with 17mgs of etorphine hydrochloride delivered via Daninject darting system using a vehicle. It took ten minutes for this elephant to get fully immobilized falling down on his right lateral.

Examination revealed a wound caused by spearing about four inches deep and two inches wide. This wound was septic and could have been there for five to eight days before intervention.

Treatment All the pus was drained and the wound lavaged with copious amount of water. It was then debrided with hydrogen peroxide with help of gauze swabs. Lugol’s iodine was used for irrigation before oxytetracycline spray being applied topically. Green clay was then packed to absorb toxins and quicken healing.

In addition 15000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 2500mgs Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory were given intramuscularly.

Reversal Achieved by intravenous administration of 48mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through ear vein. The elephant woke up within two minutes and joined the rest of the herd.

Prognosis Good

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Bull elephant at Naboisho conservancy, 15 July 2014

Case History One day after attending to a bull with injuries at this conservancy, another one was spotted with a discharging wound on his right rump. This bull of about 35years old was in a herd of twelve elephants.

General examination This elephant was in a herd and though he kept up the pace with the others, he appeared to be in reasonable pain. There was a purulent discharge from his right rump.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by administration of 17mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered through Daninject dart by vehicle. It took eight minutes for the drugs to take full effect with the elephant assuming right lateral recumbency. The right pinna was used as blind fold for the right eye and copious amount of water poured on the elephant to cool as it was a hot day.

Examination revealed a septic spear wound on the right rump which was four inches deep and two inches wide forming a pocket of pus.Probing of the wound revealed no foreign body.

Management of the wound involved complete draining of the pus, debridement with hydrogen peroxide and gauze swabs and disinfecting it with lugol’s iodine. Green clay was then packed onto the wound.

In addition 15000mgs of amoxicillin antibiotic and 2500mgs Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory was given intramuscularly.

Reversal This was achieved by giving 48mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through the ear vein. The elephant woke up in two minutes and walked away.

Prognosis Good

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10. Treatment of an elephant bull at Olkinyei conservancy, 18 July 2014 Case History This elephant was spotted in the company of 22 other bulls forming a bull herd. He had purulent discharge on his right flank. The conservancy management called to seek intervention and we immediately responded.

General examination This elephant in company of other bulls was in good body condition but appeared to be having a discharging wound on his right flank.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by administration of 17mgs etorphine hydrochloride in a 3ml dart through Daninject darting system by vehicle.

The elephant took 15minutes to be fully immobile and fell down on his left side. This gave us good opportunity to examine the right flank which revealed a healing spear wound with slight discharge of pus. Further probing of the wound did not reveal any foreign body.

The wound was washed with copious amount of water, debrided with hydrogen peroxide and gauze swabs.

Tincture of iodine was then applied before finally spraying it topically with oxytetracycline. Further treatments included intramuscular administration of 15000mgs Amoxycillin antibiotic and 100mgs Dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 48mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through the ear vein. The bull woke up and joined the rest of the herd.

Prognosis Good

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11. Post mortem of an elephant bull, Naibosho Conservancy, 18 July 2014 Case History This case was reported by KWS security team on patrol after being notified by Naboisho management. Our services were sought to determine the cause of death.

General carcass examination On general examination of carcass and scene, the following findings were noted; • The carcass appeared to have been in good body condition before death with a body score of 3.5 in a scale of 1to 5 where 5 is perfect and 1 poor.

• There was no evidence of struggle at the scene of death.

• The left tusk was missing and had been crudely removed by suspected poachers.

• The right tusk was in place and was retrieved by KWS security officers for accounting and safe custody.

• There was a wound on his left flank which appeared to have been caused by spearing. Ingesta were seeping through the wound opening suggesting the depth was beyond the peritoneum accessing the gastrointestinal system.

• No other wound was observed externally.

• Maggots had begun infesting and the carcass was beginning to putrefy. Age of the carcass could have been 5 to 7 days old.

• Scavengers had ripped off part of perineum and ventral abdomen.

On opening the carcass, the depth of the wound was confirmed. The spear went past the peritoneal space and damaged the small and large intestines. All other organs were grossly normal and showed no unexpected post mortem changes.

Conclusion This elephant died of septic shock because of severe peritonitis. The peritoneum was contaminated by ingesta and faecal matter as a result of damage to the stomach and bowels by spearing.

The missing tusks and cause of death highly suggest human involvement in the death of this elephant, poaching being the main motive. This massive elephant was a victim of recent spate of spearing targeting large bulls within this conservation area.

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12. Injured zebra at Mara National Reserve, 24 July 2014 Case History This female zebra of about 9years old was spotted struggling to stand on the roadside by tourists. They then informed the reserve management who in turn informed us.

General examination This zebra appeared to have been in good body condition prior to this problem. She was by the roadside struggling to rise but unable, rolling over and over in water that had collected on the side of the road. The front limbs were strong but could not support her with the rear ones. The perineal area appeared engorged. An attempt to assist her stand was futile as she appeared to have partial posterior paralysis.

Further examination and management • This zebra was carrying a four month old foal and the cervix was intact. • The urinary bladder was heavily distended and manipulation led to scanty urine being passed out. • The rectum was full of faecal stuff that could not be voluntary voided. Rectal reflexes were absent and the faecal material could only be manually removed.

This therefore was a case of posterior paralysis with damage to the nerves supplying posterior parts of the body. This resulted to urine retention, rectal paralysis and hind limb Inco-ordination and dysfunction. The prognosis for this case was poor and to save her from further suffering, the decision to euthanize her was reached.

Euthanasia was achieved at by administering 200mgs xylazine hydrochloride intramuscularly to make her relax before giving her 4000mgs of 20% pentobarbital sodium (Eutha-naze) intravenously through the jugular vein.

The zebra died soon after administration of this drug and was carried to hidden place away from the road for post mortem. Post mortem picture confirmed the pregnancy status which was at four months and was a male.

Conclusion This zebra could have dislocated her spine due to a sudden turn while dashing away from a predator scare or even been hit by a moving vehicle.

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MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2014 Introduction The month experienced substantial precipitation compared to previous months. Pasture and water for wildlife is still adequate. There was one incident involving a standoff between the management of Mara North Conservancy and the surrounding community whereby elephants who had crossed to Merti were said to have been shot with spears and arrows by the youths in that area. It took the intervention of KWS officers and the Mara Elephant Project team for the elephants to be spared further injuries.

It was reported that more than eight elephants were injured during the standoff, but rigorous search for these injured elephants involving the use of a helicopter was unsuccessful. One elephant with a suspected gunshot injury was however located and treated. He is thought to have been part of the group that was attacked.

Following are interventions and activities carried out during the month;

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1. Collection of faecal materials from Plain zebras, 4 to the 8 August 2014 Case History This was a one week activity which involved collection of faecal materials from resident and migratory common zebras within Masai Mara ecosystem.

This aim was to determine the type and distribution of parasites among this species and to know whether these parasites are pathogenic to other wildlife species and domestic animals.

The exercise was conducted in collaboration with a research team from KWS headquarters and the University of Nairobi. Over 600 samples were collected and will be analysed at KWS and University of Nairobi laboratories.

The exercise went on smoothly.

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2. Injured Bull elephant at Mara bush tops, 8 August 2014 Case History The Mara Bush Tops security team spotted this massive bull elephant isolated with a fresh wound on the lateral surface of his right thigh. Though feeding, the elephant also had two old healing wounds on his left thigh and another healed scar on his left elbow.

Immobilization and Examination This bull was immobilized by use of 17mgs etorphine hydrochloride delivered through a 3ml dart by Daninject darting system. A vehicle was used to dart this elephant. The drugs took 15minutes to take full effect with the elephant assuming sternal recumbency. The old wounds were quickly examined and managed before the elephant was flipped over to lie laterally on his left side. This was to avoid respiratory complications since sternal recumbency can compromise breathing. It is at this point that we discovered this was an elephant we treated two months before at Siana Conservancy. The earlier wounds were fast healing. The one on the left elbow had completely healed while the one on the left thigh was almost healing. This wound was cleaned with hydrogen peroxide and disinfected with iodine dipped swabs .Oxyteracycline wound spray was applied before green clay being packed. The elephant was then flipped over to lie on his left side. This revealed a fresh spear wound about four inches wide and eight inches deep on the lateral surface of his right thigh. The wound could have been inflicted one day before the intervention. This fresh wound was managed the same way as the other wound. Additional treatment involved administration of 15000mgs of Amoxycillin antibiotic and 2000mgs Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory intramuscularly as well as multivitamin injection.

Reversal Reversal was achieved by administration of 48mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through the ear vein. The elephant woke up after two minutes and walked away. Both the KWS security team present and the Bush top team were advised to monitor and protect this elephant which appears to be targeted by a group determined to poach him.

Prognosis Good

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3. Injured Bull elephant at Mararianta, 11 August 2014 Case History This elephant was suspected to be one of a group that was harassed by a community when they crossed over from Mara North conservancy to community farms in Marti. It was reported that there was a standoff between KWS and Mara elephant project security officers and youths from the community who wanted to spear the elephants on allegations of crop destruction. The youths, said to number over 200 and armed with spears, bows and arrows, were adamant to let the elephants be driven back to the conservancy. It took quite some time for the youths to let the elephants be driven back but with some having been speared and others shot with arrows.

Immobilization This elephant had obvious pain while walking. He was limping on his left front limb with slight swelling of this limb at the carpus. He was still feeding and active. The elephant was in a rocky valley close to a stream. Given that the terrain was not good for immobilisation the service of a helicopter which was used to search for the other elephants was requested. 17mgs etorphine was used to dart this elephant through 2ml Daninject dart.

Darting was done from helicopter after driving this elephant to an open and clear ground. It took eight minutes for the drug to take full effect with the elephant assuming sternal recumbency Treatment The elephant was immediately pushed over to lie on his left side. Examination revealed a penetrating wound on the medial aspect of the left carpus with a ventro- dorsal course. The wound was still fresh about three days old. The joint was slightly swollen but still intact and mobile. This appeared to have been caused by a bullet that did not exit. The joint integrity and surrounding bony tissues were not affected. The bullet appeared to have lodged itself in the soft tissues.

Treatment involved debriding the wound with hydrogen peroxide, use of iodine to disinfect, application of cloxacillin ointment and finally packing it with green clay. 20000mgs of oxytetracycline antibiotic and 2500mgs Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory was given intramuscularly. Given that no bony tissue was involved and

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the joint was intact, the bullet will hopefully will not interfere with normal functions of the limb. The elephant can live with this without any problem.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 48mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride through the ear vein. The elephant woke up and strode away after three minutes.

Prognosis Favourable.

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Injured lioness at Ololoolo gate, 16

August 2014

History This lioness was spotted by an anti-snaring team from Kichwa Tempo; she was isolated and lying down most of the time. The lioness had a big swelling on the left side of her neck and an open wound on the base of her right ear.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of a combination of 220mgs Ketamine and 4mgs medetomidine delivered through a 1.5ml Daninject dart. Darting was done by use of vehicle. It took seven minutes for the drug to take full effect. Cloxacillin eye ointment was applied to both eyes and face towel put in place.

Examination revealed that this lioness suffered fight wounds from other lions. The wounds were cleaned by use of hydrogen peroxide, iodine and clean swabs. Cloxacillin ointment was also put on the wounds with topical oxytetracycline spray. Additionally, 3000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 16mgs Dexamethasone sodium antiinflammatory was given intramuscularly. To reduce internal and external parasits, 80mgs Ivermectin parasiticide was given subcutaneously.

Reversal Achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs atipamizole one hour after immobilization. The lioness woke up after ten minutes and walked away.

Prognosis Good.

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5.

Tissue and faecal sampling for hydatidosis in wildlife in Mara, 20th to 26th August 2014

Case History th th This exercise which was carried out between 20 August 2014 and 26 August 2014 in collaboration with KEMRI, KWS and Meru University. This project has been going on for the last four years. Hydatidosis is a serious parasitic zoonosis common in some parts of Kenya especially marginal pastoral areas. It is caused by cystic stages of Echinococcus granulosus. A host is a domestic dog with cystic stages found in domestic herbivores.

Dogs feeding on infected herbivores will ingest the cysts and further development occurs in the dog. The cycle is completed when eggs of this parasite are passed through dog’s faeces and eventually picked up by grazing herbivores. Occasionally, due to close contact of man and domestic dogs, eggs of this parasite can accidentally be picked up by human beings from dog faeces especially where hygiene is a problem. Ingestion of eggs from infected dog faeces will lead to disease in humans. In humans, development will stop at the cystic stage with development of big cysts in areas such as liver, lungs and even the heart. The cysts could contain large volumes of fluid sufficient to impair functions of these organs and can lead to fatalities.

Interesting findings show that some wildebeests harbour the cystic form of this parasite. Lung and liver samples collected from wildebeests that die from crossing the Mara River have shown that some harbour this parasite.

Faecal samples from wild carnivores have shown some of them pass eggs of this parasite. Research is therefore being conducted to show whether there is a link between this and the well understood domestic cycle especially in areas where domestic animals have access to the parks.

Sampling involved collection and analysis of lung, liver and heart tissues of dead wildebeests, and collection of fresh faecal samples from wild carnivores for examination of this parasite. Results of this investigation can provide an insight on better ways of arresting the sustenance of the parasite’s cycle.

(IMAGES NOT AVAILABLE)

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Treatment of ‘Sienna’, the marsh pride lioness, 23 August 2014

History It is more than four months since Sienna got a nasty injury after being gored by a buffalo. Sienna’s three cubs by then were still small and heavily dependent on her. Quick intervention through the DSWT/KWS Skyvet initiative and follow up treatments saved her life. She has been recovering well with a small scar remaining. All her cubs nd are doing well and in good health. On the night of 22 August 2014, Sienna picked a fight with another female from a neighbouring pride. The result was not good with the Governor’s camp management calling the veterinary unit for immediate intervention. Sienna’s previous wound had been ripped open and both her hindquarters had been bitten leaving her lying down most of the time.

General examination Sienna was seen lying under a tree obviously in lots of pain. The previous wound was open and bleeding. She was in company of her three cubs and an older daughter. All of them were full and seem to have fed recently. A decision was made to immobilize her for closer examination and treatment.

Immobilisation, examination and treatment Sienna was immobilized by use of 5mgs medetomidine and 250mgs Ketamine delivered through a 1.5ml Daninject dart. Darting was done from a vehicle. She was immobilized after ten minutes and we added another 1mg medetomidine to maintain anaesthesia because repair procedure would be reasonably long.

Examination revealed several fight wounds on both of her thighs and more serious was the previously healing wound which had been ripped open and bleeding. The wound was disinfected with surgical spirit before being closed. All suture patterns were simple interrupted. Oxytetracycline spray was applied topically. The other bite wounds on the thighs were cleaned, debrided with hydrogen peroxide and disinfected with iodine before cloxacillin ointment and oxytetracycline spray was applied. A paste of green clay was then applied to all the wounds. Additional treatments involved intramuscular injection of 3000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 20mgs

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Dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory and subcutaneous injection of 100mgs Ivermectin parasiticide to take care of internal and external parasites. The whole procedure took one hour.

Reversal This was achieved by intramuscular administration of 15mgs atipamizole one hour after darting. She woke up after eight minutes and walked away.

Prognosis Good

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Speared giraffe at Kawaii, Olkurruk airstrip, 28 August 2014

History This male giraffe was spotted by Mara triangle rangers in a group of other giraffes with a spear sticking out from his neck. They immediately sought our services to rescue him.

General observation The giraffe was in a group of more than twenty others with the spear sticking out from the left side of his neck.

The giraffe was still strong and was seen chewing the cud. He was active and kept pace with the rest of the herd.

Immobilization, examination and treatment This giraffe was chemically immobilized by use of 12mgs etorphine and 60mgs azaperone delivered through Daninject dart from a vehicle. The drugs took eight minutes to take full effect. Upon recumbency etorphine was reversed with diprenorphine to avoid capture complications. The retrieved spear had penetrated deep into the neck muscles but fortunately had not damaged any of the vital organs. The depth of the wound was about eight inches. The spear could have been in place for the past three days before intervention. The wound was not infected.

The resultant wound was cleaned with water, debrided with hydrogen peroxide before iodine disinfectant being applied. Oxytetracycline spray was then applied topically. In addition 6000mgs oxytetracycline antibiotic and 26mgs Dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory was given intramuscularly before the giraffe was released.

Prognosis Good

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Warthog at Kichwa Tempo Camp, 27th August 2014

History This warthog was spotted by the Kichwa Tempo security staff with a tight wire round his waist. This warthog for some time was elusive and could not be seen but we were able to find him this day.

Immobilization and treatment He was in the company of other three warthogs close to a stream with the wire seen round his waist. He appeared uncomfortable though grazing. This warthog was chemically immobilized by use of 2.5mgs etorphine and 15mgs azaperone. The drugs took effect after five minutes and the warthog was placed under shade.

Examination revealed a tight snare made of plain wire round his waist. The wire had created a wound on the ventral part of the abdomen with slight damage of rectus abdominis muscles. The snare appeared to have been in place for at least eight days with fly maggots already infesting on the wound.

The snare was duly removed and the wound was washed with copious amount of water and hydrogen peroxide.

All the maggots were removed and iodine used to disinfect the wound. Oxytetracycline spray was applied topically before coating it with green clay. Additionally, 1500mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 400mgs Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory was given intramuscularly. To rid further maggot infestation, external and internal parasites, 40mgs Ivermectin parasiticide was administered subcutaneously.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 12mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously through ear vein. He woke up immediately and dashed to where other warthogs had gone.

Prognosis Good

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Injured Elephant bull at Mara triangle, 27

August 2014

History This young bull about 20years old was spotted by Mara triangle patrol rangers in a family of about ten elephants. He had an obvious wound on left hind limb and appeared restless although still feeding.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by use of 15mgs etorphine delivered in a 1.5ml Daninject dart. The drugs took effect after eight minutes with the elephant lying on his left side. Examination of the affected limb showed this elephant had once been snared when young. The wound was complicated by maggots causing a lot of discomfort to this elephant. All the maggots were removed and the wound was lavaged with copious amounts of water and hydrogen peroxide used to debride the dead debris. The wound was swabbed clean before iodine disinfectant and oxytetracycline antibiotic spray was applied topically. Green clay was then packed into the wound to absorb toxins and promote healing. Additionally 15000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 2500mgs Flunixin meglumine anti-inflammatory was given intramuscularly. 400mgs Ivermectin injection was given subcutaneously against both internal and external parasites.

Reversal This was achieved by administration of 42mgs diprenorphine through the ear vein. The elephant woke up after two minutes and joined the other members of the family.

Prognosis Good

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10. Injured Sub adult male lion at Ololoolo area, Mara triangle, 28 August 2014 History This young lion was seen in the company of three other cubs thought to be his siblings. Their mother could not be seen but suspected to have gone to hunt. The four lion cubs had been tracked for a while that day by the Mara triangle rangers who saw this particular cub with a wound on the right side of his withers. The wound appeared infected.

Capture, examination and treatment This young lion was seen under a tree alone. The other cubs were further away. He was immobilized chemically by use of a combination of 2mgs medetomidine and 110mgs Ketamine in a 3ml Daninject dart. It took eight minutes for this lion to be fully sedated.

Examination revealed a septic wound probably acquired through a scuffle with other lions on the right side of his withers. The wound was slightly deep and already infested with maggots. This wound could have been there for at least four days before intervention. The maggots were duly removed and the wound was washed with water and hydrogen peroxide. Iodine was used to disinfect and oxytetracycline spray applied. Green clay was then packed. Additionally, this lion was given 1500mgs amoxicillin antibiotic intramuscularly and 40mgs Ivermectin subcutaneously against internal and external parasites.

Reversal This was achieved by use of 7.5mgs atipamizole given intramuscularly one hour after immobilization. He woke up after ten minutes and walked towards the other cubs.

Prognosis Good

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MARA MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2014 Introduction The early days of the month were characterized by moderate precipitation which increased towards the end.

There is also evidence of diminished pasture with many grazers, especially wildebeests and buffaloes showing poor body condition as a result. This has proved a challenge to the old and toothless with a few in this category succumbing. Generally, there were few cases of intervention over the month compared to the previous month.

The following are cases intervened and activities undertaken during the period;

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1. Follow up treatment of an elephant, Mararianta, 10 September 2014 Case History This elephant thought to be one of the group harassed earlier in Marti, had been treated the previous month for a gunshot wound on his front left limb. The Mara Elephant Project team monitored it for a while and reported improvement. However during the early days of this month, he appeared to limp again with limited movement. They got concerned and immediately informed the Mobile veterinary unit who responded to assess the situation.

General observation The elephant was feeding in a small thicket and showed a slight limp while moving. Nothing much had changed in the body condition which remained average.

Immobilization, examination and treatment After pushing this elephant out of the thicket, he was darted using 17mgs etorphine hydrochloride through a 3ml Daninject dart by vehicle. It took 8minutes for the drug to take full effect with the elephant assuming left lateral recumbency. Examination revealed an arrow head lodged on the medial surface of the left forelimb just above the carpal joint. The arrowhead had been in place for not more than eight days with some sepsis setting in. This was a poisoned arrow recently lodged. The arrow head was removed gently and the wound cleaned with hydrogen peroxide wiped clean with swabs before iodine and oxytetracycline spray being applied topically.

Green clay was then packed onto the wound. It was also an opportunity to assess the previous wound which was fast healing and was managed the same way. In addition, this elephant was given 15000mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 100mgs Dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory intramuscularly.

Conclusion It appears that due to his slow movement because of the previous injury, this elephant was an easier target for poachers who tried to kill him with poisoned arrows. The KWS security team and the Mara Elephant Project rangers present at the time of treatment were advised to keep vigil and monitor this elephant with big tusks that appears to be targeted by poachers. Prognosis is good.

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Treatment of a young elephant bull, Naboisho conservancy, 13 September 2014

Case History This elephant was spotted by Naboisho management in a group of other elephants depicting lameness while walking. They said he was among a group of new elephants who had just arrived at the conservancy from elsewhere. They called us to assist treat this elephant.

General observation This elephant appeared to be in good body condition though limping on his right forelimb. The carpal joint looked a bit swollen but with no obvious wound. The elephant could still put on weight on this limb. A decision to immobilize this elephant for closer examination was arrived at.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved by delivery of 14mgs etorphine hydrochloride remotely through a 3ml Daninject dart. Darting was by vehicle. The drugs took effect after 8minutes with elephant assuming right lateral recumbency.

After examining the inner surface of the right carpus which had no injury, the elephant was flipped over to examine the lateral surface. No wound was evident though the joint was moderately swollen and stiff. This appeared to be a long standing sprain with resultant flexion of the joint. The joint had become stiff with limited mobility. Aspiration of the joint yielded nothing unusual.

The elephant was given 100mgs Dexamethasone sodium anti-inflammatory and 15000mgs amoxicillin Trihydrate antibiotic intramuscularly.The swelling was also gently massaged for 15minutes to try and improve blood circulation.

Reversal This was achieved by use of 42mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride given intravenously through the ear vein. The elephant woke up in two minutes to join other members close by. Prognosis is favourable.

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Treatment of a female cheetah, Masai Mara National Reserve, 17 September2014

Case History This female cheetah was spotted by a visiting tourist who immediately sought our contacts and called us to help this cheetah with mange.

General examination This cheetah was alone but appeared to have fed recently. The body condition was good save for alopecia in some areas occasioned by mange. We found her relaxing under shade.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Immobilization was achieved chemically by use of combination of 1.3mgs medetomidine and 130mgs Ketamine delivered through a 3ml Daninject dart. Darting was by vehicle. The drugs took full effect after ten minutes.

Examination revealed moderate mange infestation that had affected the face including both ears, the underbelly and lateral surfaces of both front and hind limbs.

The affected areas were scrapped to remove debris, disinfected with lugol’s iodine before tetracycline spray was applied. The cheetah was given 750mgs amoxicillin antibiotic and 10mgs Dexamethasone sodium antiinflammatory intramuscularly. In addition 30mgs ivermectin was given subcutaneously to get rid of mange and other internal and external parasites.

Reversal This cheetah was given 5mgs atipamizole intramuscularly one hour after immobilization. She woke up after five minutes and walked away. Prognosis is good

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Post mortem of a male elephant, Olkinyei conservancy, 20

th

September 2014

Case History The fresh carcass of this elephant was spotted by the Olkinyei conservancy security team on patrol on the morning of this date. They immediately called us to determine the cause of death.

General examination of the carcass The following were noted on general examination; • The carcass was lying on his left lateral with both tusks intact.

• Part of ventral abdomen had been ripped open by scavengers.

• There was no evidence of struggle before death at the scene.

• The elephant appeared to have been in good body condition just before death with body score of 4 in a scale of 1to 5 where 1 is poor and 5perfect.

• Fly eggs could be seen just laid on some areas of the carcass.

• The carcass was less than 24hrs old and was still relatively fresh.

• On turning the carcass to assess the left side, an open would inflicted by spear was seen with omenta popping and ingesta seeping out.

• The wound appeared to be less than 48 hrs old and was relatively fresh.

On opening the carcass, the following observation was made: A. The wound was about 4inches wide and about 2 feet deep.

B. Both small and large intestines were ruptured and the ingesta had contaminated the peritoneum.

C. There were signs of acute chemical and septic peritonitis.

Post mortem diagnosis This elephant died as a result of acute chemical and septic peritonitis occasioned by resultant rupture of bowels through spearing. The chemical and microbial contents of the gastrointestinal system contaminated the peritoneum. The spear too could have been laced with poison. Due to the size of the tusks, the elephant could have been a target of poachers. Both tusks were recovered and taken for accountability and safe custody by KWS security team that was around.

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Rescue of an elephant calf, Mara North Conservancy, near Musiara gate, 22

September 2014

Case History Mara North Conservancy rangers called for assistance in capturing and rescue of this baby elephant whose nd mother died suddenly on the morning of 22 September 2014. This baby elephant was left with an older brother who was very protective of him. He appeared to be in good health and resisting capture.

Capture This baby elephant was under protection of an older brother who was scared away by use of vehicles to join another herd. He was manually restrained with help of ropes and 25mgs of Azaperone given intramuscularly to calm him. He was then transported to Musiara airstrip to be taken to David Sheldrick Orphanage in Nairobi.

Just before being put on plane, another dose of 25mgs Azaperone was administered. All vital parameters of this baby elephant were within range.

Post mortem of the mother revealed that she died of acute gastroenteritis of undetermined aeteology. Both tusks were recovered by Mara North Conservancy rangers for onward transmission to KWS Kilgoris station for accountability and safe custody.

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Sampling of buffaloes for Foot and Mouth Disease and other pathological conditions, Masai Mara nd th National Reserve and surrounding conservancies, 22 to 27 September 2014

This one week exercise was conducted in conjunction with a team from KWS headquarters (veterinary department) together with a team from Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (Foot and Mouth Disease Laboratories, Embakasi).

This sampling aims to establish the Foot and Mouth Disease virus serotypes existing in the buffaloes and compare with the ones circulating in the domestic animals. This is the second phase of investigation; the first one having been carried out in 2012. The results of this investigation will help advice management of both sectors on best control strategies of this notifiable disease. Samples collected will also reveal whether there are other parasites being harbored by buffaloes and the best way to control them.

During the exercise, a total of 34 buffaloes were sampled. The exercise went on smoothly.

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Treatment of a warthog, Kichwa Tempo camp, 28

September 2014

Case History This warthog was seen and reported to us by Care for the Wild rangers in conjunction with the Mara Triangle security team. The warthog was seen grazing close to the camp in company of others.

General observation The warthog was evidently in pain, though grazing. She could be seen limping with her right hind limb hardly placing weight on it. She was in a group of another seven warthogs.

Immobilization, examination and treatment She was chemically immobilized by use of a combination of 2mgs etorphine hydrochloride and 20mgs azaperone in a 2ml Daninject dart by vehicle. The drugs took effect after 3minutes.Blind fold was put in place before examination being conducted. On examination, plastic tubing was found tightly stuck on her right hind limb at the level of tarsus creating a wound which had become septic. This could have been a piece of pipe which she accidentally stepped on. The pipe could have been in place for more than one month. The pipe was immediately removed by cutting and the resultant wound cleaned with copious amount of water and debrided with hydrogen peroxide. It was then wiped clean with sterile swabs before iodine being splashed and oxytetracycline spray being applied topically. Additionally, 900mgs amoxicillin antibiotic was given intramuscularly to counter sepsis.

Reversal Achieved by administration of 6mgs diprenorphine hydrochloride intravenously via the milk vein. She woke up after three minutes to join the rest of the members of her group who were patiently waiting for her. Prognosis is good.

Conclusion The Mara Mobile Veterinary Unit would like to thank all stakeholders who contributed in one way or another to the rescue and treatment of all the animals that required veterinary intervention during these months. Thanks also to all conservation partners who followed these animals before and after treatment and their efforts in reporting their progress.

The unit also acknowledges the substantial and generous support of the The Minara foundation through the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust with whom their collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service has seen many wild animals saved from unnecessary suffering.

Reported by Dr Campaign Limo

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MERU MOBILE VET UNIT QUARTERLY REPORT JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2014

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MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2014 Introduction Eight cases were attended by the Meru Mobile Veterinary Unit during the month of July including 4 elephant treatments and a black rhino. Sadly one of the elephant cases and the rhino case had to be euthanized due to the extent of their wounds, whilst one of the other cases remains guarded and monitored and the rest have been given a healthy prognosis.

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1. Treatment of an injured elephant in Oldonyoiro, 8 July 2014 Case History This elephant was first reported to have shown lameness affecting the right hind limb in Mpus Kutuk th conservancy on 8 July 2014. The elephant was immobilized for examination and treatment and later reviewed on 17th July in Meibae conservancy after it crossed the Ewaso River.

Procedure and findings Darting was conducted from a helicopter using Etorphine Hcl 18mg in a single 1.5cc DanInject dart with a 2.2 Ă— 60mm needle. The dart was placed into the dorsal muscles at the left rump. Induction time was 5 minutes.

Examination showed swollen thigh muscles of the right hind limbs. We attempted manipulation and palpation of the limb to identify and localize the injury. Instability of the stifle joint was noted, no other findings were recorded.

Diagnosis and treatment Stifle joint luxation was suspected 1.

5% Flunixin Meglumine 100ml deep intramuscular 2.

Betamox trihydrate to cover for secondary bacterial infection After treatment procedure, the animal was revived from anaesthesia Prognosis and recommendation Joint luxation in elephants has a poor prognosis for recovery mainly due to an inability to reduce and stabilize the joint impeded by the massive weight of these animals. A review of this case on 17th July showed no significant improvement though the animal could hobble around. In the 5 days post treatment it had moved approximately 8 Km crossing the Ewaso nyiro river into the Meibae conservancy and was reported to be moving towards an area called Seiya lugga. It was still in fair body condition but going forward its inability to access nutritious browse and water will negatively affect the health of this animal.

Prognosis In view of the welfare of this animal we recommended euthanasia.

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Treatment of an injured elephant in Meru National Park, 11

July 2014

Case History A male adult elephant was reported wounded by tour guides from Elsas Kopje during a routine game drive th along the Rojowero River on 11 July 2014. It was in a herd of approximately 60 elephants and was discharging pus on its flank. The Meru veterinary unit quickly responded while the guides and visitors monitored the herd from a safe distance.

Procedure and findings After a quick observation the elephant was darted from a vehicle following standard immobilization procedure.

Etorphine hydrochloride 16mg was used in a 1.5 cc DanInject dart. Following darting, the elephant remained calm and fell onto left lateral recumbency after seven minutes. Examination revealed a deep dorso-ventral suppurative stab wound into the right flank muscles caused by a sharp object. The wound was more than 6 inches deep on probing with a forceps and discharged pus. The elephant was also in poor body condition as a result of septicemia.

Treatment 1.

The wound was scrubbed with plenty of water, debrided using dilute hydrogen peroxide and lavaged with povidone iodine 2.

Topical antimicrobial spray Oxytetracycline was applied 3.

Long acting Betamox trihydrate 30 grams injected intramuscularly 4.

Multivitamin injection 200 milliliter IM Prognosis This animal is expected to make a complete recovery in the coming days.

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Chronic wasting disease in elephant in Meibae conservancy, 17 July

On 17th July 2014 a twelve year old male elephant in Meibae conservancy was reported to have shown severe emaciation with little movement for the previous three weeks. Scouts from the conservancy monitored its movement daily; therefore the animal was easily located for treatment on a lugga along the banks of Ewaso Nyiro River.

Procedure and findings For immobilization, Etorphine hydrochloride 6mg was administered using a DanInject darting system into the gluteal muscles. Darting was done on foot. On examination no physical injury was found and the emaciation was attributed to an internal disease condition. Long acting Betamox 15000mg and Multivitamin injection 100ml was administered intramuscularly. Diprenophine hydrochloride was given intravenously to revive this animal from anesthesia.

Prognosis for recovery is guarded due to the chronic course of this case.

(NO IMAGES AVAILABLE)

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Snare removal in an Elephant in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, 22

July 2014

Introduction A five year old male elephant was reported to be showing lameness and dragging a wire snare on its right hind limb by a research team on patrol in Lewa wildlife conservancy who monitored its movement. This animal was immobilized on 22nd July 2014 for removal of the snare.

Procedure The injured elephant which was in a herd of twelve elephants was easily identified in an open grassland area which is ideal for darting. For immobilization we darted the animal from a vehicle using Etorphine Hcl 2mg in a 1.5cc DanInject dart into the gluteal muscles. After five minutes he fell onto lateral recumbency and we quickly drove the herd away despite strong resistance by its mother who came to its rescue. On contact with the recumbent elephant its trunk was stretched to ensure open airway and its ear pinna was flipped to cover the eye to prevent visual stimulation and minimize stress.

Examination showed a plain wire snare around the right mid tibia which though tight had not cut through the skin. To remove the snare we cut using a wire cutter. Diprenophine hydrochloride 6mg was injected intravenously into the superficial ear vein to revive the elephant from anesthesia. He was soon reunited with its mother.

Prognosis for recovery Although the snare around the leg was tight this young elephant was spotted before any injury occurred, therefore, we expect that this animal will live a healthy life.

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Injured black rhino in Solio ranch, 23 July 2014

Case history A black rhino had lameness affecting the left hind limb for the past 24 hours with little movement and was unable to feed.

Procedure This animal was immobilized for clinical evaluation on 23rd July 2014 in Solio ranch. Darting was done on foot using a combination of Etorphine hydrochloride 4mg with Xylazine hydrochloride 60mg in a 1.5 cc dart and a 2.2 × 60 mm needle delivered in a DanInject darting system into the gluteal muscles. Induction time was 12 minutes after which the animal fell on sternal recumbency. He was rolled onto right lateral recumbency for examination.

Findings: • Hyperflexion and instability of the left hock joint • Rupture of the joint capsule and tears on the skin around the joint • Tears on the rectum, perineum and the prepuce with a deep wound 5cm in diameter into the mid perineum • Lacerations on the skin at the flank Diagnosis: Traumatic disarticulation of the left metatarso – phalangeal joint Management: Euthanasia. Both its rear and front horns were excised and taken for custody at the Aberdares national park

Discussion: Findings on this animal are consistent with injuries sustained in a fight. Mature male black rhinos are highly territorial and will aggressively defend their territories. Joint disarticulation particularly in black rhinos has a poor prognosis for recovery mainly due to an inability to reduce and stabilize the joint impeded by their massive weight.

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Injuries in this case were considered severe and not amenable to treatment. Euthanasia was considered in view of its welfare, viability of treatment and health prospects for this animal.

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De-tusking to mitigate human elephant conflict in Meru National Park, July 2014

Introduction For ten years prior to May 2014, the farming community living along the western boundary of Meru national park reported zero incidences of human elephant conflict (HEC). This has been attributed to an effective seventeen kilometer 16 strand electric fence which was constructed by KWS in 2004 to protect the park and protect crops and livestock. However, in June 2014 ten incidences of crop raids by elephants were recorded in Kindani and Kianda locations on the western part of the park. An analysis of the incidences showed that all raids occurred at night when elephants tactfully break the electric fence to access the farms and later retreated to the park before dawn. A response team headed by the community warden identified five bull elephants responsible for damage to fences. Four out of five problem bulls had previously been fitted with GSM/GPS collars in Laikipia and had a history of fence breaking. They were translocated to Meru national park one year earlier to mitigate HEC in Laikipia.

In July 2014, the Kenya Wildlife Service management approved detusking of four problem elephants to prevent further damage to crops, loss of community livelihood and to reduce threat to human lives.

Procedure Problem elephants were monitored for one month in June 2014. Damage to fences and crops caused by elephants were reported to a patrol team who identified and photographed these individuals. An aircraft also assisted in monitoring movements of candidate elephants during routine park patrol.

Capture and de-tusking of elephants Elephants were darted from a helicopter using Etorphine hydrochloride 18mg in a 1.5cc dart delivered using a DanInject darting system. Induction time averaged 13 minutes. The animals were positioned on lateral recumbency during the tusk trimming. The full length of the tusk was measured from its tip to the point of skin contact and two thirds of the tusk was cut off using a power saw. A third of the tusk was left to ensure that the central nerve was not exposed. Petroleum jelly was applied to the cut surfaces of the tusks to prevent cracking and chipping. Subsequently, the animals were revived with Diprenorphine hydrochloride 54mg administered intravenously through the ear vein.

Discussion Three male elephants were successfully immobilized and tusks trimmed. A fourth elephant fell into the river during the immobilization procedure and had to be revived urgently. No incidences of HEC have been reported in three weeks monitoring post detusking. In conclusion, elephant detusking was effective in reducing HEC incidences but may have a negative effect on elephant behavior, access to nutritious feed and aesthetic value of detusked elephants. Long term monitoring of detusked elephants is recommended to study the effect of tusk trimming on elephant behaviour.

Other clinical cases attended

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• A security dog in Meru national park suffered a laceration on its paw. The wound was cleaned and dressed with topical antimicrobial spray • Two buffalos escaped through an electric fence damaged by elephants in Meru national park and were causing a threat to the community bordering the western boundary of the park. Attempts to capture and relocate the buffalos failed after they fled into a thicket.

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MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2014 Introduction This report describes the activities of the Meru Veterinary Unit during August 2014. Northern Kenya continues to experience a prolonged dry season resulting in scarcity of pastures for both wildlife and livestock. Wildlife dispersal areas in the region have also been intruded by pastoralists in search of water and pasture for their livestock resulting in increased human wildlife conflict incidences.

Among the cases attended during this period were an injured juvenile black rhino in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, injured elephants in Meru National Park and grevys’ zebra in a conservancy in Samburu.

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Desnaring a giraffe, Meru NP, 8 August 2014

Case History An adult giraffe with a loose wire snare around its neck was reported by a DSWT anti-poaching team operating in Meru NP who tracked its movements. It was immobilized to remove the snare on 8th August.

Treatment The giraffe was found in a group of 8 animals which became agitated when approached by vehicle. To immobilize the giraffe we used a combination of Etorphine Hcl 12mg and Xylazine Hcl 40mg in a single 1.5 cc DanInject dart.

Darting was done from the vehicle after a brief chase. Ten minutes after darting it was roped down to lateral recumbency. A wire snare which hung loosely around its neck was quickly removed.

Revival and Prognosis Reversal drugs consisting of Diprenophine Hcl 36mg and Atipamesole Hcl 5mg was administered intravenously through the jugular vein. After a brief struggle the giraffe was assisted to standing position using ropes.

The giraffe was not physically affected by the incident.

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Treatment of an injured elephant, Meru NP, 14 August 2014

Case History Tour guides from Elsas Kopje saw this animal during a routine game drive and requested the Meru MVU to attend to it.

The three year old elephant suffered a big wound with pus on its right hind limb extending from the rump to th the knee. He was immobilized for examination and treatment on 14 August.

Immobilization, examination and treatment The injured elephant was located in a herd of 12 elephants in a thicket near the Murera River. We waited for a few minutes for the herd to move to an open area for darting. Etorphine Hcl 3mg was used to immobilize this animal that fell onto left lateral recumbency after 3 minutes. The herd was then driven away by a vehicle.

Examination showed an expansive degloving wound suspected to have been caused in a predator attack by lions. This was an old wound showing early signs of healing. The wound was cleaned with water and soap and povidone iodine was applied.

Green clay was also applied. Betamox trihydrate 30 milliliter was injected intramuscularly to prevent overwhelming systemic infection.

Prognosis We expect this animal to make a complete recovery albeit slowly due to extent of this injury. A follow up treatment will be planned in September.

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Treatment of an injured elephant, Bisanadi NR, 18 August 2014

Case History This elephant had been treated 4 weeks earlier for a stab wound on its flank. On 18th August the animal was reported to have crossed over to Bisanadi national reserve and was exuding pus from the wound. It was immobilized for a review of its progress.

Immobilization, examination and treatment Etorphine hydrochloride 16mg was used in a 1.5 cc DanInject dart. Following darting the elephant remained calm and fell onto left lateral recumbency after five minutes.

There was a deep dorso-ventral suppurative stab wound into the right flank muscles caused by a sharp object.

The wound which was deep on probing with a forceps showed signs of healing, pus exuding from the wound had also reduced considerably compared to the last treatment.

For treatment hydrogen peroxide was used to debride the wound and later povidone iodine was applied.

Betamox trihydrate was then administered intramuscularly.

Conclusion This elephant is on its way to recovery; its body condition seemed to have improved considerably from the last treatment.

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Treatment of a juvenile black rhino in Ol Pejeta Conservancy, 24 August 2014

This black rhino was reported to have shown lameness and swelling at the shoulder on the right forelimb by the st rhino monitoring team at OPC on 21 September. The 20 month old calf was lagging behind its mother and it was feared that it could be attacked by predators. We immobilized the calf on 24th August to examine the cause of lameness and administer treatment.

Procedure and findings The animal was darted on foot using Etorphine hydrochloride 2mg and Xylazine hydrochloride 30mg in a single 1.5cc DanInject dart with a 2.0 Ă— 60mm plain needle. This dart was placed into the dorsal muscles at the left rump.

A subsequent dart was administered 30 minutes later when the first dart failed to discharge. Induction time was 3 minutes after the 2nd dart. Its mother was then driven away by a vehicle with rangers who kept watch from a distance while the veterinary team administered treatment.

Butorphanol hydrochloride 5mg was administered intravenously on contact with the immobilized animal to stimulate its cardiopulmonary function. Examination showed swollen muscles of the scapula around the right forelimb. There was a puncture wound less than one (1) centimetre diameter at the cranial border of the shoulder. On probing the wound with a forceps it was found to have penetrated craniocaudally approximately 6 cm into the shoulder muscles. No crepitus was felt on palpation of the limb.

Diagnosis and treatment Puncture wound: 1.

Wound debrided and lavaged with povidone iodine 2.

5% Flunixin Meglumine 30ml deep intramuscular 3.

Betamox trihydrate 60 ml to cover for secondary bacterial infection After treatment procedure, the animal was revived from anesthesia using Diprenophine Hcl 12mg and atipamezole 5mg injected through superficial ear veins.

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Prognosis and recommendation A tentative cause of the wound is a bullet. Prognosis for this case is guarded due to a risk of internal organ injury. We recommend intense monitoring and follow up treatment within 21 days to assess its recovery.

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Treatment of a lame elephant, El Karama 24 August 2014

An elephant showing severe lameness and swelling on the left forelimb was reported by rangers in the El Karama ranch on 24th August. This elephant had been reported two weeks earlier but could not be located for treatment.

Immobilization, Examination and treatment Etorphine Hcl 18mg delivered in a 3cc DanInject dart was used to immobilize this animal. After 6 minutes it fell onto sternal recumbency so we pushed to lateral recumbency for further examination.

Examination showed a swollen elbow joint on the left forelimb with three infected wounds. The wounds may have been caused by bullets.

Treatment entailed wound debridement with hydrogen peroxide and intramuscular administration of antimicrobials. After treatment Diprenophine Hcl 60mg was injected intravenously to reverse the effects of anesthesia.

Conclusion Prognosis for this case is guarded. Gunshot injuries may result in bone fractures or subsequent infection of soft tissue around the joint which is difficult to treat. We advise close monitoring of this animal to assess its progress.

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Treatment of an injured Grevys zebra, Maralal, 27 August 2014

Case history This Grevys’ zebra was reported to have shown severe lameness on the left forelimb with little movement over a period of three days.

It was spotted by cattle herders in Kisima on 24th August who reported to the Grevy Zebra Trust field officers.

We immobilized the zebra for treatment on the 27th August.

Procedure and findings The animal was easily located in an open grassland community grazing area in an area called Kisima in Maralal.

It was darted on foot using Etorphine hydrochloride 7mg and Xylazine hydrochloride 80mg in a single 1.5cc DanInject dart with a 2.0 Ă— 40mm plain needle. This dart was placed into the gluteal muscles on the right hind limb. After 5 minutes the animal fell into sternal recumbency.

Examination showed bruises around the nose. There were infected bite wounds on the dorsal muscles of the neck and wounds around the coronary band of left forelimb. Palpation of the foot showed an unstable fetlock and pastern joint with soft tissue injury and joint crepitus. These bite wounds may have been caused during territorial fights.

Treatment and outcome 1.

Debridement of the wounds using hydrogen peroxide and application of povidone iodine 2.

Betamox trihydrate 60ml IM 3.

5% Flunixin Meglumine 30ml IM To revive the zebra Diprenophine Hcl 24mg and Atipamezole 10mg was injected intravenously through the jugular vein. On reversal from anaesthesia this zebra stumbled and suffered a disarticulation of the pastern joint on the left forelimb. Due to the extent of this injury the animal was euthanized to relieve suffering.

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Other Clinical Cases Attended: 7.

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Detusking an elephant, Meru NP, 10 August

An elephant bull in Meru NP was detusked on 10th August. This elephant had been translocated from Laikipia one year prior and had a history of fence breaking and destroying crops in community farms bordering the western part of Meru NP. The elephant was darted from a helicopter using Etorphine hydrochloride 18mg in a 1.5cc dart delivered using a DanInject darting system. Induction time was 7 minutes after which he was positioned on lateral recumbency for the procedure. The full length of the tusk was measured from its tip to the point of skin contact and two thirds of the tusk was cut off using a power saw. A third of the tusk was left to ensure that the central nerve was not exposed. Petroleum jelly was applied to the cut surfaces of the tusks to prevent cracking and chipping.

Subsequently, the animals were revived with Diprenorphine hydrochloride 54mg administered intravenously through the ear vein.

8.

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Post mortem examination of a Grevys’ zebra carcass, Meibei, 19 August

A juvenile Grevy’s’ zebra was reported sick by the GZT scouts in Wamba on 18th August. It was lagging behind its group and did not move away when approached. We asked the scouts to keep watch while arrangements were made to attend to the zebra the following day. The zebra died at night, therefore a necropsy to determine the cause of death was done on 19th August. The carcass was positioned on dorsal recumbency and flayed to examine for subcutaneous changes. Internal organs were examined systematically for gross lesions.

Significant findings: • Carcass was decomposed due to high ambient temperature • Poor body condition and severe dehydration • Pale mucous membranes indicating anemia • Enlarged spleen Tick borne diseases (TBD) is suspected as cause of death.

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MERU MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2014 Introduction During September wildlife in northern Kenya continues to suffer due to the onset of drought in the region. In Meru National Park for instance many species have congregated along the riparian habitats. However mortality and morbidity directly attributable to drought remains low.

In the month under review the veterinary unit participated in a KWS sponsored eight day rhinoceros ear notching program in Meru NP, with an aim to ear notch 21 rhinos (15 white and 6 black rhinos) to help in positive identification of rhinos by all observers.

Among clinical cases attended to was an injured juvenile black rhino at Ol Pejeta Conservancy and a snared elephant in Meru NP. The veterinary officer in charge of the unit also attended a three day (12th to 15th September) KWS warden and scientists Workshop in Nairobi where several issues affecting wildlife in the region were discussed.

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Examination of a snared elephant, Rojowero, Meru NP, 6 September 2014

Case History th This was a sub adult female elephant in Meru which was spotted on the 6 September in a group of 14 elephants by tour guides from Elsas Kopje. This elephant was dragging a two feet long loose plain wire snare around its left hind limb.

On the day we planned to dart the elephant we found a day old calf in the group which had just been born and its mother was cleaning up its placenta. This group was agitated by our presence and repeated efforts to drive the patient out of the dense shrubs failed.

We will continue to search and de-snare this animal.

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Autopsy report of a young bull elephant, Meru NP, 7 September 2014

Findings This carcass of a sub adult elephant was found during a routine patrol close to the road on the 7th September 2014. It was approximately two days old and had been eviscerated by scavengers.

Both tusks which were intact were retrieved and taken to the KWS park armoury for custody.

No other significant findings were recorded due to the status of the carcass. Death in this case was attributed to natural causes.

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Treatment of a juvenile black rhino at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, 24 September 2014

Case history: This juvenile black rhino had been treated one month earlier for lameness attributed to a puncture wound and swelling on its right forelimb. It was reported to have shown little improvement and its body condition was deteriorating. The rhino was immobilized on 24th September to assess its progress and to do a follow up treatment.

Procedure and findings Both mother and calf were immobilized. Darting was done on foot using Etorphine hydrochloride and Xylazine hydrochloride in a single 1.5cc DanInject dart with a 2.0 Ă— 60mm plain needle.

Butorphanol hydrochloride 5mg was administered intravenously on contact with the immobilized animal to stimulate its cardiopulmonary function.

Examination showed swollen muscles of the scapula around the right forelimb. On manipulation of the right forelimb crepitus was felt which was attributed to elbow joint subluxation. The puncture in the muscles of the scapula was healed.

Diagnosis and treatment Tentative diagnosis: Traumatic elbow joint subluxation 1.

2.

5% Flunixin Meglumine 30ml deep intramuscular Betamox trihydrate 40 ml to cover for secondary bacterial infection

After treatment procedure, the animal was revived from anaesthesia using Diprenophine Hcl 12mg and atipamezole 5mg injected through superficial ear veins.

Prognosis and recommendation Prognosis for this case remains guarded, however further tests such as radiography are required to confirm our diagnosis.

We recommended confinement of this animal in a boma for monitoring and also to restrict its movement to facilitate healing.

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Rhino ear notching In Meru National Park, 13 – 21 September 2014

Summary This report describes ear notching and microchip insertion in rhinoceros in Meru NP from 13th to 21st September 2014. During this period 15 white rhinos and 4 black rhinos of various age and sex were immobilized, fitted with microchips and ear notched. This will improve identification of individual rhinoceros by specific ear-notch pattern and a particular name.

Rhinoceros candidate selection and capture of rhinoceros Black rhinos (Diceros bicornis) and white rhinos (Cerathotherium simum) selected for ear notching were individuals two to five years old that had not been notched previously (described as clean animals). This selection criterion was used to minimize risk associated with post immobilization separation of calves which are dependent on their mother for nutrition and nurture. Rhino candidates for ear-notching were identified by an experienced spotter. Candidates were identified on the basis of their territories, individual attributes such as age, size and sex and group attributes for instance number in a group or identity of its companions. All the rhinos were darted from a helicopter using a Dan-inject rifle, 2ml Dan-inject darts with a 2.2 × 60mm needle.

Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99®) and Xylazine hydrochloride (10%) combination was used for anesthesia.

Anaesthesia reversal White rhinos anaesthesia was reversed using Naltrexone Hcl (5%) and Atipamezole Hcl (0.5%) by intravenous route followed by Diprenorphine (1.2%) (M5050®) given by intramuscular route.

Anaesthesia in black rhinoceros was reversed using Diprenorphine Hcl and Atipamezole Hcl (0.5%) given by intravenous route and a ¼ of the dose by intramuscular route (Table 1.).

Table 1: Drug quantities for anesthesia and reversal

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Species

M99®

Xylazine Hcl

Naltrexone

M5050®

Adult Black rhino

4 mg

80 mg

-

12 mg

Adult White rhino

4 mg

80 mg

100mg

6mg

Sub-Adult Black rhino

3 mg

60 mg

-

12 mg

Sub-Adult White rhino

3 mg

60 mg

100mg

6mg

Juveniles

2 mg

40 mg

50mg

6mg

Physical examination and monitoring of anesthetized rhinos Immobilized rhinos were positioned on sternal recumbency and airway patency verified. Vital parameters were monitored including respiration rate and depth, colour of mucous membrane, moisture and rectal body temperature.

In addition rhinos showing signs of respiratory distress were treated with Butorphanol tartrate (1%) 0.5 ml and Doxapram 20mg administered intravenously. To control hyperthermia immobilized animals were doused with cold water. Animals were blind-folded to reduce capture stress.

Ear notching A predetermined pattern was excised on the ears of each of the immobilized rhinos using surgical scissors and blades. Haemorrhage was controlled using haemostatic forceps and by applying pressure using gauze swabs.

Ear notch wounds were liberally sprayed with Oxytetracycline Hcl. Microchips were also inserted into both horns. All immobilized rhinos were examined physically for injuries, wounds and filarial worms wound lesions and treated appropriately. For control of ectoparasites all immobilized rhinos were treated with an ectoparasiticide pour on.

Number of rhinoceros ear notched in Meru park stratified by age and sex Species

Black rhino

White rhino

Age (years)

2

3

4-5

2

3

4-5

Male

1

-

1

1

-

4

Female

-

1

1

3

4

3

Total

1

1

2

4

4

7

Biological sample collection Samples for genetic studies and Rhino DNA Index System (RHODIS) database were opportunistically collected in immobilized rhinos. Blood obtained from interdigital veins was put in EDTA coated and plain tubes, aliquoted in cryovials and preserved in liquid nitrogen. Ear tissue samples preserved in ethanol and horn scrapings were collected. These samples will be subjected to molecular techniques for DNA extraction and amplification.

Tick samples preserved in ethanol were collected for parasitological studies.

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An illustration of ear notches in two individuals in Meru Park

NAME: OBAMA ID: 70W67 NOTCH #:67 SEX: MALE

NAME: KOECH ID: 70W70 NOTCH #: 70 SEX: MALE

Report by Dr Bernard Rono The Meru Mobile Veterinary Unit wishes to thank all of the stakeholders who provided information on the animals that required veterinary intervention during these months whilst many thanks go to Mr Companc for so loyally funding this unit.

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AMBOSELI MOBILE VET UNIT QUARTERLY REPORT JULY TO SEPTEMBER 2014

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AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT JULY 2014 Introduction The Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit, which operates in the Southern Conservation Area, performed an extensive aerial recce within Amboseli National Park and the surrounding ecosystem during the month of July.

The DSWT provided an aircraft for this activity. This aerial reconnaissance operation took place after an increased number of spear and arrow attack cases to elephants were observed due to human wildlife conflict within the greater area.

The purpose of the aerial exercise was to; • See the distribution of wildlife within the park • Check for injured/sick animal within the park • Check for any unnoticed carcasses within the park and its surrounding ecosystem • Check for any unusual activities or happenings within the park No unusual sighting was seen except for two elephant carcasses which had earlier been sighted.

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Injured Giraffe at Osewan, Amboseli National Park, 12 July

Case History A male giraffe was spotted by rangers in the group ranch and reported to have been lame. They reported to the veterinary team who attended to the case immediately for examination and treatment.

Immobilisation The giraffe was recumbent and immobile on arrival at the scene. Immobilization was therefore not necessary for examination and assessment of the injury to be done.

Examination On physical examination the giraffe had suffered from an open compound and comminuted fracture (left hind limb) at the hock joint. A decision to euthanize the giraffe was made since the prognosis was poor. An incision into the fracture was made to expose the extent of the injury. Bone fragments were retrieved from the hock joint. The giraffe could have suffered from a fall which led to the severe fracture.

Prognosis The giraffe had to be sadly euthanized

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Treatment of injured elephant at Selegei (Amboseli National Park) 17 July 2014

Case History A male elephant was reported to be lame and having an injury on the right hind limb. The elephant had been previously collared and therefore the veterinary unit, KWS research team and IFAW team set off to locate the elephant.

The elephant proved difficult to locate in the thick bush despite using the tracking gadgets. However, the team finally found the elephant after an hour of searching, the wound was assessed and a decision to immobilize the elephant was made.

Immobilisation The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Foot darting was done using Dan-inject system due to the thick vegetation. After darting the elephant, the team then embarked on a ground search operation as the elephant had taken off into the bush. The elephant was finally located safe and sound after a 1.5 hrs search. The elephant was re-darted since he had regained consciousness after full metabolism of the first immobilization dose. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 15 cm long wound (3 weeks old) on the right hind limb at the digits. The wound was penetrating and had two openings. It was septic and had necrotic tissue. The wound is likely to have been caused by a branch or stick that had penetrated through the limb and had come out with time. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied to the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (66mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 8 minutes to be fully awake.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

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Injured Zebra at Amboseli National Park, 19 July 2014

Case History A male injured zebra was spotted by the veterinary team while on a patrol/animal census exercise. The veterinary team immediately made a decision to immobilize, examine and the zebra.

Immobilisation The zebra was immobilized using 7 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride and 60 mg azerperone in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting from a vehicle was done using Dan-inject system. Full immobilization took place after 5 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbence. The zebra was blind folded and opticlox applied to the eyes to avoid damage.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the zebra had a deep and long sharp edged cut on the flank region which could have been caused by a predators attack. The wound was septic, about 75 cm long and gaped. The wound was thoroughly cleaned using clean water, hydrogen peroxide and normal saline for rinsing. There was lots of pus and necrotic tissue in the wound.

The dead tissue was debrided and removed. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The zebra was then injected with 50 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes.

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Reversal of immobilization Reversal of immobilization was done using 18 mg diprenorphine HCL and took about 3 minutes for complete revival.

Prognosis Prognosis good

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Post Mortem Report of adult elephant at Amboseli National Park, 21 July 2014

Case History An elephant carcass was seen on 21-07-2014 at day time around 5.00 pm by KWS security personnel while on patrol.

Post Mortem findings i.

The elephant had been lying on a bare ground for quite a considerable period of time. ii.

Both elephant tusks were present. iii.

The KWS security personnel removed the tusks with ease. iv.

The carcass had been mauled by scavengers and only disintegrated parts of the skeleton could be seen suggesting that the carcass could have been 1 – 1.5 months old.

Procedure i.

The KWS security personnel removed the tusks and delivered them to Amboseli National Park headquarters for safe custody. ii.

The tusks were weighed prior to storage and weighed 22 kg and 21 kg.

Cause of death The cause of death could not be established.

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Post Mortem Report of adult elephant at Amboseli National Park, 23 July 2014

Case History An elephant carcass was reported to have been seen on 23-07-2014 around 2.00 pm by wildlife security personnel within the park.

Post Mortem findings i.

The elephant was on lateral recumbence position on bare ground. ii.

Few maggots were present and the carcass had decomposed hence estimating the time of death to have been 1-2 weeks prior to sighting of the carcass. iii.

Both elephant tusks were missing indicating human interference. iv.

All the internal organs were missing. v.

On physical examination, no physical injury was observed on the carcass. vi.

At the head region, there seemed to have been a cut with a sharp object after the death of the elephant probably an aftermath of the removal of the tusks.

Procedure i.

The KWS security personnel using the intelligence department and the community were able to trace the whereabouts of the missing tusks and were able to recover them. ii.

The tusks were delivered to the Amboseli National Park headquarters for safe custody. iii.

The tusks were weighed prior to storage.

Cause of death The elephant could have died out of a disease or through oral poisoning from the community farms, and the ivory had been removed but soon recovered.

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6. Treatment of injured elephant at Komboyo (Tsavo West National Park), 23 July Case History The DSWT pilot reported a case of an injured male elephant to the Amboseli Vet Unit and immediately made plans to airlift the veterinary doctor and the rangers to Komboyo. Plans were also made to have the DSWT helicopter and the KWS aircraft on sight for easy sighting and darting.

On arrival, the elephant was in a bush thicket and proved difficult to locate and dart. A decision to postpone the exercise to the following day was arrived at after darkness threatened to set in. Success met the team the following day after successful helicopter darting and treatment.

Immobilisation The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system and was relatively easy from a helicopter despite the thick vegetation. The ground team was well guided from a light aircraft to the position of the recumbent elephant. It was initially in dog sitting position but later went to lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 15 cm long wound (1-2 weeks old) on the right flank region but close to the hip region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. An incision was made distal to the wound where there was a pus pocket to allow access and drainage of pus from the wound.

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The wound is likely to have been caused by an arrow head which had come off with time. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 6 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia.

Prognosis Prognosis good

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Postmortem report of an elephant at Satao (Amboseli ecosystem), 25 July 2014

Case History Herders reported at about 1.30pm to the KWS security personnel of having spotted a dead elephant within the area of Satao. The management then informed the veterinary team and also dispatched a team of rangers to the scene. The team found the carcass intact and embarked on a post-mortem and removal of tusks for safe custody. The tusks were then delivered to the Amboseli N.P headquarters.

Immobilisation On general examination, the animal was in a fair body condition and was lying on the right lateral side adjacent to a cliff. There were also signs of struggle above the cliff indicating that she must have fallen off the cliff just at about the time of her death. She had a penetrating wound on the left abdominal region caudal to the umbilical region. The penetrating object had penetrated into the gut about 15 cm from the spinal region suspecting the attacker to have positioned himself from the top of a cliff or a tree. The carcass was then flipped to left lateral recumbency for further examination. No other external injury was visible on the left abdominal region. The wound was probed for any foreign objects but none was observed.

Examination On incising across the penetrating wound, the wound was fairly fresh (about 24 hrs) and had also penetrated into the abdomen. The gut had been ruptured by a penetrating object. The wound was about 7 cm in diameter and had penetrated into the gut.

Cause of Death Taking into consideration the size and age of the wound, the elephant succumbed to death as a result of toxicity from a spear laced with some lethal poison.

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8.

Follow-up report on an orphaned rhino, Chyulu Hills National Park, July 2014

Case History The young rhino was orphaned after the death of the mother on 06-06-14 in Mukururo (Chyulu Hills National Park). A ground and air team tried to rescue the orphan who had a gun shot injury around the neck region, however the rhino became elusive and has since not been spotted physically. The Big Life Foundation laid camera traps around the region where regular tracks could be seen for monitoring purposes. The rhino has since been seen and has greatly improved; the wound healed, in good health and proved capable of living in the wild on its own.

Conclusion The rhino can be allowed to live in the wild under the surveillance and monitoring of the rangers within the region. This is after the following considerations; -Age of the rhino-1-1.5 years - He is able to feed on forage in the wild in absence of the mother.

- He is in good health.

-Sex of the orphan- Male -The orphan has managed to adopt living on his own and survived for quite a considerable period -The bullet injury has healed with time -The rhino has also proved elusive - a sign that he is capable of living in the wild with minimal threat.

(No images available)

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AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT AUGUST 2014 Introduction During the month of August 2014, the unit faced a number of spear and arrow injury clinical interventions. This could be attributed to the dry season which has led to increased human-wildlife conflict due to wildlife straying into community farms.

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Treatment of an Injured lion at Amboseli National Park, 7 August 2014

History A male lion (sub adult) was spotted by rangers at Amboseli and reported to have been lame. The veterinary team immediately attended to the case and made a decision to immobilize and examine the lion.

Immobilization The lion was immobilized using 3.5 mgs medetomidine and 280 mg ketamine in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting from a vehicle was done using Dan-inject system. Full immobilization took place after 10 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbence. The lion was blind folded and opticlox applied to the eyes.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the lion had suffered from injuries around the spinal and hind area. There was plenty of pus and the wounds were septic. On palpation, the spinal cord was intact. The injury could have been as a result of a fight with another lion. The dead tissue was debrided and the wounds were thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. The lion was injected with 20 ml Betamox and 30 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. Topical antibiotic ointment and green clay was then applied on the wound to facilitate healing. The operation lasted 30 minutes.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

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Treatment of injured elephant at Kilaguni (Tsavo West National Park), 10 August & successive th th repeat treatments on 18 & 27 August 2014

History The KWS rangers at Kilaguni reported a case of an injured male elephant (lame) to the Amboseli Unit as the Tsavo Vet Unit couldn’t attend the case. The veterinary team immediately attended to the case and made a decision to dart the elephant for examination and treatment.

Immobilisation The elephant was immobilized using 16 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system from the vehicle. It was initially in sitting position but later went to lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a stick placed across the nostril entrances. His temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a swollen left forelimb and right rear limb. He also had wounds around the flank and head region. The wounds were septic and had necrotic tissue. An incision was made to allow access and drainage of pus from the wounds. Those in the flank and head regions were thoroughly cleaned. The wounds around the limb regions were likely to have been caused by a snake bite.

The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wounds were cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide.

They were then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied to the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (48mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 10 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia.

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Repeat treatments Two successive repeat treatments were carried out at different dates as indicated to facilitate healing. However during the repeat treatments the elephant was treated with 4 vials clindamycin each time to take care of bone infection. During each review the elephant showed signs of improvement and on the road to recovery.

UPDATE Very sadly this bull died mid-September 2014. Despite showing clear signs of improvement from his possible snake bite wound he was attacked by a pride of lions and killed. Being weak he was possibly an easy target for the lions. All involved in his multiple treatments are incredibly sad about this outcome of this brave bull.

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Treatment of injured elephant at Satao-Amboseli, 18 August 2014

History The Big Life rangers based within the Satao area while on their routine daily patrols spotted a lame and off feed elephant in the area. They made a report to the Amboseli veterinary team and immediately made plans to attend to the case. On arrival, the elephant was in open ground and the extent of immobility could be accessed with ease. However a vehicle could not reach to the elephant due to the rough terrain. A decision to immobilize the elephant for examination and treatment was made.

Immobilisation The elephant was immobilized using 17 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Foot darting was done using Dan-inject system due to the rough terrain. Full immobilization took place after 5 minutes and she fell on lateral recumbency. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination The elephant was carefully examined and the left hind limb which was extremely swollen around the femoral tibial joint. The injury could have been as a result of a spear injury. The elephant was administered with 100 ml Oxytetracycline 20%, 100ml Flunixine meglumine, 4 vials clindamycin and 100ml multivitamin injections at different sites.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

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Rescue of a baby giraffe at Amboseli, 19 August 2014

Case History A young giraffe (1 week old) was reported abandoned in Amboseli by rangers. Efforts to reunite the young giraffe with the mother proved fruitless after a 2 day trial. A decision was made to relocate him to the DSWT Nursery in the Nairobi National Park. Immobilization Using a Landcruiser the giraffe was relocated to the rescue centre for further care. The giraffe, which has since been named Kili is in good health and the chances of survival are high.

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Treatment of injured elephant at Ithumba (Tsavo East National Park), 21 August 2014

History The KWS rangers at Ithumba reported a case of an injured male elephant to the Amboseli Veterinary as the Tsavo Unit was unable to attend the case. Plans to airlift Dr Njoroge to Ithumba were made. The DSWT availed a helicopter and light aircraft for easy sighting and darting. On arrival, the elephant was in thick bush and proved difficult to locate. The elephant was finally sighted after 2.5 hours of thorough searching using the light aircraft and helicopter.

Immobilisation The elephant was immobilized using 16 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system and was relatively easy from a helicopter despite the thick vegetation. The ground team was well guided from the helicopter to the position of the recumbent elephant. It was on lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a penetrating wound on the left flank region but close to the hip region. The wound was septic and had lots of pus. The wound is likely to have been caused by a bullet. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml oxytetracycline 20%, 100 ml Flunixine meglumine and 4 vials of clindamycin at different sites intramuscularly.

The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes.

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Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (48mgs) into the ear vein was used. Recovery from anaesthesia was regained after 7 minutes. However the elephant could not get up even after 45 minutes with assistance from the rangers.

Prognosis The prognosis and chances of recovery were nil and therefore the elephant was sadly euthanized. The ivory was recovered and delivered to Ithumba KWS office for safe custody.

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Treatment of eland at Bamburi Haller Park, 24 August 2014

History A male eland adult was reported to have been lame at Bamburi Haller Park in Mombasa on Kenya’s coast. The veterinary team immediately attended to the case and made a decision to immobilize and examine the eland.

Immobilisation and Examination The eland was immobilized using 14mg mgs etorphine and 120 mg azerperone in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Foot darting was done using Dan-inject system as the elands are relatively tame. Full immobilization took place after 6 minutes and he fell on lateral recumbence. The eland was blindfolded and opticlox applied was to the eyes. On physical examination the eland had suffered from a laxation around the interdigital region and had an infection.

Treatment The eland was treated using 50 ml betamox and 50ml flunixine meglumine. The wounds were also cleaned using hydrogen peroxide, tincture of iodine and clean water. The dead tissue was debrided.

Prognosis Good

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Treatment of injured elephant at Satao Tsavo East, 27 August 2014

History The Tsavo East rangers based within the Satao area spotted an injured elephant while on their routine daily patrols. They made a report to the Amboseli Vet Unit and the veterinary team immediately made plans to attend to the case. An aircraft was availed by the DSWT to fly the vet to Satao. On arrival, the elephant was in open ground and darting from a vehicle was relatively easy.

Immobilisation The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting from a vehicle was done using Dan-inject system. Full immobilization took place after 14 minutes and she fell on lateral recumbency. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a penetrating wound on the right flank region. The wound was septic and had pus. The wound is likely to have been caused by an arrow but had fallen out with time. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied to the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml oxytetracycline 20%, 100 ml Flunixine meglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 40 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 5 minutes to be fully awake from the anaesthesia and walk away from the site.

Prognosis Prognosis is good.

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AMBOSELI MOBILE VETERINARY UNIT SEPTEMBER 2014 Introduction This month the Southern Conservation Area showed a marked decrease in the number of cases reported. This could be attributed to the increased surveillance within the area. During the month a combined team of Kenyan and Tanzania rangers performed a joint operation to ensure a reduction in poaching cases.

The Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit was also called to support the Tsavo Conservation Area in treating a high number of injured elephants in that area in conjunction with the Tsavo Mobile Veterinary Unit The veterinary team also carried out an aerial recce within the park and surrounding ecosystem. The DSWT provided an aircraft for this activity which took one hour. The purpose of this exercise was to; • • • •

See the distribution of wildlife within the Park Check for injured/sick animals within the Park Check for any unnoticed carcasses within the Park and its surrounding ecosystem Check for any unusual activities or happenings within the Park and the surrounding ecosystem.

No unusual sighting was seen except for one elephant carcass which was spotted.

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Post Mortem Report of adult elephant at Irimito-Amboseli National Park, 10 September 2014

History An elephant carcass was seen on 08-09-2014 at day time around 10.00 a.m. by pilots overflying the area. The th unit attended the case on the 10 .

General post mortem findings i.

The elephant had been lying on a bare ground for about three weeks.

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Both elephant tusks were missing indicating human involvement.

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The carcass had been mauled by scavengers.

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There was also a penetrating wound on the dorsal side of the carcass around the abdominal area (approx. 5cm diameter) leading to the suspicion of a spear injury prior to death.

Cause of death Suspected spear injury most likely by poachers.

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Giraffe case at Engong Narok-Amboseli ecosystem, 11 September 2014

History A male giraffe was spotted by rangers and reported to have been lame within community land. They reported the case to the veterinary team who attended immediately for examination and treatment.

IMMOBILIZATION The giraffe was recumbent and immobile on arrival at the scene. Immobilization was therefore not necessary for examination and assessment.

Examination On physical examination the giraffe had suffered from an open compound and comminuted fracture (left hind limb) at the hip joint. A decision to euthanize the giraffe was made since the prognosis was poor.

An incision into the fracture was made to expose the extent of the injury. Bone fragments were retrieved from the hip joint. The giraffe could have suffered from a fall which led to the severe dislocation and fracture.

Prognosis The prognosis was poor and chances of recovery even with clinical intervention were nil and therefore the giraffe had to be sadly euthanized.

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3. Treatment of an injured elephant at Tangorngoro (Amboseli ecosystem), 17 September 2014 History A male elephant was reported to be lame and having an injury on the left hind limb. The elephant had been previously collared. The elephant proved difficult to locate and dart using a vehicle and therefore foot darting was done. The lameness was assessed and a decision to immobilize the elephant was made.

Immobilisation The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Foot darting was done using Dan-inject system due to the thick Vegetation. The elephant stood still and after effects of the narcotics took place, he dashed into the thick bush. The team followed the elephant tracks and full immobilization took place after 17 minutes.

The elephant was finally located safe and sound after a 1.5 hrs. search. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a huge swelling on the left hind and fore limb. No physical injury was visible leading to a suspicion that he could have had a fall. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Flunixine meglumine at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 10 minutes to be fully awake and walk away.

Prognosis Good

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Treatment of injured elephant at Satao Elerai (Amboseli ecosystem), 19 /26 September

History The big life game scouts reported a case of an injured male elephant to the Amboseli Vet Unit. The veterinary team immediately attended to the case and made a decision to dart the elephant for examination and treatment.

Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 16 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Foot darting was done using the Dan Inject system due to the rough terrain. The elephant went down on lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had a swollen left hind limb and wounds around the limb. The wounds were septic and had necrotic tissue. An incision was made to allow access and drainage of pus from the wound.

The wounds were likely to have been caused by a gun shot. The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 25 minutes.

Repeat treatments A repeat treatment was carried out on 26-9-14. However during the repeat treatment the elephant was treated with 4 vials clindamycin each time to take care of bone infection. During the review the elephant showed signs of great improvement.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (48mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 7 minutes to be fully awake.

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Treatment of injured elephant at Satao (Tsavo East National Park), 23 September 2014

History The DSWT pilot reported a case of two injured male elephants to the Amboseli Unit and immediately made plans to airlift the veterinary doctor and rangers to Satao. Plans had been made earlier to have the DSWT helicopter on sight for easy sighting and darting. On arrival, the elephant was in a bush thicket but relatively easy to dart using the helicopter.

Immobilization The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system and was relatively easy from a helicopter despite the thick vegetation.

The elephant went down on lateral recumbence. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had an approximately 8 cm long wound (1-2 weeks old) on the left flank region but close to the hip region. The wound was septic and had necrotic tissue. An incision was made distal to the wound where there was a pus pocket to allow access and drainage of pus from the wound. The wound is likely to have been caused by an arrow head which had come off with time.

The dead tissue was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 30 minutes.

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Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 6 minutes to be fully awake from anaesthesia.

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Treatment of injured elephant (case2) at Satao (Tsavo East National Park), 23 September 2014

History The elephant was immobilized using 18 mgs Etorphine Hydrochloride in a 3cc dart toped up using water for injection. Darting was done using the Dan Inject system from a helicopter and was relatively easy from a helicopter despite the thick vegetation. The trunk was maintained patent using a piece of stick placed across the nostril entrances. The temperature was high hence plenty of water was doused on the elephant to keep the body temperatures low. The ears were used as blindfold.

Examination and Treatment On physical examination the elephant had 2 swellings on the right flank region but close to the hip region. An incision was made distal to the swellings to allow access and drainage of pus from the pus filled wounds. The wound is likely to have been caused by the entry and exit points of an arrow. The dead tissue in the wound was debrided and removed. The wound was then thoroughly cleaned using water and Hydrogen Peroxide. It was then lavaged using tincture of Iodine. Topical antibiotic cream and green clay was then applied into the wound to facilitate healing and avoid infection. The elephant was then injected with 100 ml Betamox L.A and 100 ml Dexamethasone at different sites intramuscularly. The entire operation lasted about 20 minutes.

Reversal of immobilization Diprenorphine Hydrochloride (54mgs) into the ear vein was used. It took about 6 minutes to be fully awake from anesthesia.

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Elephant Collaring report, Amboseli NP, 24 September 2014

History This report describes an elephant re-collaring exercise of a bull elephant described as the matriarch. This elephant bull had previously been collared but the transmitter had failed transmitting for a considerable period of time. It was therefore necessary to place the collar well.

Immobilization ® Etorphine Hcl (0.98%) (M99 ) (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Ltd) 18mg, in a 3 ml Dan - inject dart was prepared. ® Darting from vehicle was done using a Dan inject dart rifle (Dan-inject APS, Sellerup Skovvej, Denmark) the elephant was darted and was fully immobilized after 17 minutes. It took 30 minutes to place the collar in properly.

Management The elephant was also injected with the following: ® • Oxytetracycline 30000mg (Adamycin LA 300 Assia Animal Health Ltd, Kenya) I.M ® • Dexamethasone 80mg (Dexajet Dawa Ltd, Kenya) I.M Animal care during anesthesia Animal was doused with plenty of water and the eye covered with the pinna of the ear.

Reversal of anesthesia This was done using 54mg of diprenorphine Hcl (Norvatis South Africa (Pty) Limited) given IV at the ear vein the animal was reversed from anesthesia, (a ¼ of the dose was given i.m). Recovery from anesthesia was smooth and took about 4 minutes. The elephant stood up and walked away.

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THANKS & APPRECIATION The Amboseli Mobile Veterinary Unit is grateful to all the individuals and organisations who played a role in assisting us towards achieving our goal. Many thanks to The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, The Samuel J and Ethel Lefrak Charitable Trust and the Kenya Wildlife Service for their continued support of this unit which aims at immediate response to clinical intervention, wildlife rescues and alleviating wildlife suffering.

Report by; Dr. Michael Njoroge.

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