In the vast expanse of Tsavo’s ecosystem, where elephants gracefully roam, a heartwrenching sight unfolded during a routine patrol over Taita Ranch.
Wildlife Works pilot Keith Hellyer discovered a young calf, heavily reliant on mother’s milk, timidly trailing five mature bull elephants with no nearby herd.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) swiftly intervened, prompting a daring rescue mission to save the abandoned calf named Pika Pika.
Receiving a distress call, our Voi Reintegration Unit assembled a team, while detailed photographs captured by our pilot confirmed Pika Pika’s tender age and solitary presence among the bull elephants.
A helicopter guided the group towards safety, where our rescue team took over, successfully separating the calf from the untamed bulls without incident.
Blankets securely wrapped Pika Pika, and the decision was made to raise her at our Voi Reintegration Unit, skipping the Nursery stage.
Pika Pika quickly found solace in her new surroundings, particularly in the company of Mbegu and her herd at Voi.
Mbegu asserted her ownership, and the older elephants joyfully welcomed the newest member, engaging in activities like browsing in lush foliage and enjoying mud baths.
The resilient Pika Pika embraced her second chance at life enthusiastically, overcoming the stress of her initial ordeal.
She was named after the majestic rock formation where she was discovered; Pika Pika, like many orphaned elephants, faced challenges during Tsavo National Park’s dry season.
The increase in human-wildlife conflicts led to the abandonment of numerous calves seeking protection from adult males, who couldn’t provide sustenance.
Fortunately, we rescued Pika Pika from this fate and are dedicated to nurturing her until she can return to the wild and thrive in Tsavo again.
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