The Sky Vet Unit assisted in the rescue of 3 elephant calves which were taken to the Neonate Unit in Kaluku and treatment of 2 buffalo, and 1 zebra with snares in the coastal region. Two giraffes were also treated for snare injuries within the Chyulu Hills and 2 for natural causes at the Coast and in Tsavo West.
The 3 elephant rescues came from all over Kenya, Masai Mara, Laikipia and Tsavo Ecosystem, highlighting the extent and importance of the Sky Vet Unit. With the ever-growing aerial fleet, increased aerial patrols and additional helicopters increases the chance of SWT finding and treating an animal in time. This is reflected in the outcomes with only one giraffe given a guarded prognosis as the snare injury was severe and body condition poor. The remaining 6 cases were all given a good prognosis and should recovery fully in the wild. These animals may have succumbed to their injuries without the expert collaboration and support between SWT Units, KWS, KWS and other organisations.