Odisha forest department acts swiftly as injured baby elephant struggles in herd

In a concerning development from Keonjhar district, a baby elephant was found injured within a herd of 30 elephants roaming the forest areas of Champua and Patana. According to reports from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), the calf has sustained injuries to its leg, and it has been observed walking with difficulty in the herd.

Forest officials have confirmed that seven calves are part of this elephant herd, which has been wandering across local villages and agricultural lands for several days. The herd caused damage to crops in nearby fields and, in some instances, even broke household barriers, creating distress among local residents.

Given the vulnerable condition of the injured calf, the forest department has deployed a Rapid Rescue Team on the site in the Champua range’s Tuntuna area. The team comprises three veterinary doctors, a wildlife biologist, and a drone expert. Utilising thermal drone technology, the team is carefully monitoring the movements and health of the baby elephant to ensure timely medical intervention.

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Authorities have appealed to local residents not to disturb the herd, as such interference could aggravate the situation. The forest department continues to maintain round-the-clock vigilance on the herd, prioritising the safety of the baby elephant as well as the protection of nearby villages and crops.

Officials emphasised that coordinated efforts are ongoing to guide the herd safely back to deeper forest areas while providing care to the injured calf.