Kanchanaburi: Test results have confirmed that “Nong Khao Tom,” a newborn female elephant calf separated from its mother, has had structural abnormalities since birth. A team of veterinarians is urgently planning treatment and rehabilitation for the calf, found in the Thong Pha Phum District.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, revealed that a detailed health examination was conducted by the Protected Area Management Office 3 (Ban Pong) and the Wildlife Health Management Group of the Wildlife Conservation Office, in collaboration with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus. The examination assessed “Nong Khao Tom” to be approximately one week old, weighing 118 kg. Physical examination revealed that both of the calf’s front ankles were bent and unable to straighten, and pain was noted when the hip area was touched.
Further investigation via X-ray found no fractures, though the hip could not be clearly diagnosed. An ultrasound showed no abnormalities in the front ankle but identified abnormal tendons and inflammation in the right hip, with a hematoma characteristic noted. Blood samples were sent for laboratory examination to check overall health and important diseases.
Veterinarians concluded that “Nong Khao Tom” suffers from a congenital malformation of the calf’s structure. The calf’s frail condition, combined with the herd’s efforts to support it, appears to have led to additional injuries. Initial treatment involves administering pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory injections, with long-term plans for food, nutritional supplements, and ongoing physical therapy. Future X-rays and ultrasounds are planned if recovery does not progress as expected.
The timeline of events began on September 21, when Lam Khlong Ngu National Park officials were alerted by villagers to a weak and injured female baby elephant. The calf was named ‘Nong Khao Tom’ after being fed rice soup. That night, veterinarians and officials monitored the calf, which was unable to stand and showed signs of pain in its hips and hind legs.
On September 22, Nong Khao Tom was moved to the Bueng Chawak Wildlife Management Development Center in Suphan Buri Province for further care. Meanwhile, her mother had rejoined the herd, which had migrated several kilometers from the original area. The Director-General has instructed continuous care for Nong Khao Tom to ensure her safety and a swift recovery.