Dramatic Rescue Unfolds as Large Tusker Shot by Poisoned Arrow Fights to Stay Alive

In the heart of Africa’s vast wilderness, it always a battle between poachers and conservationists. Elephants especially are a crucial focus of this war due to the illegal ivory trade. However, organized rescue teams like that operating out of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust are always on their toes ready to respond to an animal in distress. This time it was a large bull elephant fighting to survive after it had been shot by a poison arrow near the Tsavo River of Tsavo National Park, Kenya. What unfolded was a dramatic race against time with chopper teams pressed into service to get to the pachyderm on the brink of death.

A Tragic Discovery: A Wounded Giant

In August 2024, the pilot of an SWT aerial patrol  scanning the horizon for signs of poaching, made a shocking discovery — a large bull elephant with a grievous wound on his right shoulder. The telltale sign of a poacher’s poisoned arrow was evident, piercing deep into the elephant’s flesh. The urgency of the situation was clear, but before the rescue team could mobilize, the injured bull vanished into the thick Tsavo wilderness, leaving everyone on edge.

Despite relentless aerial searches in the following days, the elephant eluded their grasp. Time passed, and the chances of his survival seemed slim. However, the team refused to give up hope.

A Second Chance: The Search Resumes

Weeks later, a spark of hope reignited the rescue efforts. The same fixed-wing pilot, while on patrol near the Tsavo River, spotted a familiar sight — the same bull elephant, this time in the company of two other bulls. But the pilot’s joy was short-lived as the wound remained as severe as before, oozing pus, swollen, and undoubtedly infected. Without immediate medical attention, the elephant’s fate seemed sealed.

The Team Had to Act Fast

Photos were quickly dispatched to Dr. Limo, the head veterinarian of the SWT/KWS Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit. It was clear that the arrow wound, likely poisoned, was taking a toll on the animal’s health. The team understood that they had no time to lose; they needed to act fast to give the bull a fighting chance.

Mobilizing for the Mission: Racing Against Time

The race to save the elephant began in earnest. The SWT/KWS Burra Anti-Poaching Team quickly moved into position while Dr. Limo and his veterinary team were flown to the scene by helicopter. The stakes were high — not only was the elephant’s life in danger, but the scorching heat made the mission even more critical. Anesthesia in high temperatures can be dangerous for any animal, and time was of the essence.

Action From Above

From the sky, Dr. Limo prepared to dart the bull with a tranquilizer, knowing full well that every second counted. As the dart struck, the ground team began their eight-minute countdown — the time it would take for the elephant to fall under the effect of the sedative. With expert precision, the team worked together to ensure the elephant fell on his left side, providing clear access to the wound on his right shoulder. A misstep here could prolong the operation, putting unnecessary strain on the already vulnerable bull.

The Procedure: A Delicate Surgery

With the elephant safely down, the real work began. The wound was worse than anticipated — a staggering 10 inches deep, it had pierced through his ear and into his shoulder. Although the bull’s body had managed to expel the arrowhead, the poison lingered, preventing the wound from healing. Pus and infection filled the injury, making the situation even more perilous.

The Final Touches

Undeterred, Dr. Limo and his team meticulously flushed and cleaned the wound, ensuring no remnants of poison remained. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication were administered to boost the elephant’s natural defenses. It was a delicate and challenging process, but in record time, the team completed the treatment.

A Triumphant Return: The Elephant Walks Free

With the medical treatment complete, all eyes were on the bull as the anesthesia began to wear off. Slowly, the elephant stirred, rising to his feet with the same strength and grace that had once made him one of the wilderness’s great kings. He stood tall for a moment, as if assessing his surroundings, then turned and walked steadily back into the wild.

The Fight Against Poaching: A Continuing Battle

This story is not just about one elephant’s survival, but a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against poaching in Africa. Every year, thousands of elephants fall victim to illegal hunting, targeted for their tusks and left to die from the wounds inflicted by poisoned arrows or bullets. While this bull was fortunate to be rescued in time, countless others are not as lucky.

The SWT/KWS teams remain vigilant, patrolling the skies and the land to protect these incredible animals. Each success, like the one with this bull, brings hope — hope that through perseverance, dedication, and swift action, more lives can be saved.