Young Elephant Separated From Herd Rescued in Kanchanaburi

Thairyoak National Park's conservation management unit mobilized staff and veterinarians to rescue a male elephant calf, less than two weeks old, after it was separated from its herd near the Mae Nam Noi river in Kanchanaburi province on July 30–31, 2025. The calf was moved urgently from the flood-risk area to the park headquarters for intensive care.

On July 30 at 6:00 a.m., park rangers received a report from residents of a lost elephant calf on the riverbank. Rangers took approximately 1–2 hours by boat to reach the remote location. Overnight observation showed the calf calling repeatedly for its mother and exhibiting behaviors such as sucking on rocks and tree roots, but with no herd response. Officials estimated the calf had been swept away by floodwaters about two days earlier due to heavy rainfall in the area. Rangers provided milk under veterinary guidance to sustain the animal.

On July 31 at 9:00 a.m., veterinarians assessed the calf and found it to be a 40-kilogram male in critical condition with severe dehydration, mouth ulcers and inflammation reducing milk intake, conjunctivitis, and an umbilical wound. The team immediately transferred the calf to park headquarters for emergency intervention.

Peer Puangmali, head of Thairyoak National Park, stated: "We have established a temporary enclosure with disinfectant spraying and assigned staff to provide round-the-clock care under close veterinary supervision."

On August 1, veterinarians will collect blood samples to test for elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV). While awaiting results, the calf will remain in quarantine for continued monitoring. The park and veterinary team are committed to comprehensive care to ensure the young elephant's health and safety according to animal welfare standards.