Elephant calf death in Odisha: Palm found stuck in throat

An ailing elephant calf undergoing treatment at Godibari elephant training centre in Chandaka-Dampada sanctuary on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar died reportedly after a palm kernel got stuck in its throat, revealed the post-mortem report on Monday.

According to sources, a three-year-old elephant calf was rescued from Deogaon forest in Bolangir district in a critical condition on August 21.

The elephant calf was brought to Chandaka-Dampada sanctuary for necessary treatment as it was not able to feed on its own due to wounds inside its mouth. 

The medical team from OUAT and Nandankanan Zoological Park performed various tests including X-ray, and endoscopy and administered antibiotics and saline during the course of treatment, but in vain. The baby elephant died on Sunday evening.

After the death of the elephant, an autopsy was performed which revealed that the pachyderm died after consuming a palm.

The elephant failed to swallow the palm and it got stuck in its throat. Palm kernel was also found in the elephant’s stomach, revealed the autopsy report.

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Meanwhile, wildlife experts have expressed shock over the incident as it is believed to be the first incident of such kind.