Bhubaneswar: A young elephant calf, who had been under the care of the Boudh Forest Department since September 13, was transferred to the Elephant Rescue Centre at Kapilash in Dhenkanal on Friday.
According to reports, the calf, estimated to be around 15-20 days old, was rescued from a canal in the Kusumakuhuri area after it fell into the water while its herd was migrating from Panchdhara hills of Athmallik. A few local farmers spotted the calf and rescued it from the canal and informed the Forest Department.
The Forest officials provided immediate care and attention to the calf, keeping it in a barricaded area in the forest with the hope of reuniting it with its mother. However, it is believed that the mother elephant may have abandoned the calf due to the scent of humans on its body, acquired during the rescue process, said sources.
During its stay with the Boudh Forest Department, the calf had grown attached to the officials and staff, who had treated it like their own child. They provided it with food, water, and medicines and even comforted it during moments of distress. The calf’s transfer to the rescue centre was an emotional moment for the Forest Department team.
