Our SWT/KWS Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit first treated this elephant on 19th August, recovering an arrowhead from a wound on his left torso.

More than a month later, our pilot spotted him again during an aerial patrol — this time with another wound on his front left leg, likely from a spear. We mobilised a second treatment.

Bulls are understandably flighty near the park boundary, shaped by negative human experiences. He wouldn’t let us get anywhere near him, so we had to pursue him by vehicle. Once Dr Limo landed the dart, we moved in to ensure he fell on the right side — given his size and the rugged environment, flipping him would have been a real challenge.

The wound was deep, most likely the result of human-wildlife conflict at a dam where livestock drink — communities don't want elephants using up water meant for their animals. He must have ventured outside the park and returned after being injured.

Both treatments were successful. His original arrow wound is healing well, and Dr Limo is optimistic this second injury will follow the same course.—

Human-wildlife conflict remains one of the greatest threats to elephants across Africa. Working alongside the Kenya Wildlife Service and field partners, we respond to these incidents and work to address the root causes.