Vet teams race to save sick elephant in Ampara
Veterinary treatment is continuing for a wild elephant that fell ill and collapsed at Sammanthurai in Ampara, with wildlife officials working around the clock to save the animal. According to the Ministry of Environment, the male elephant, estimated to be between 25 and 30 years old, is receiving intensive treatment under a joint operation involving […]
Veterinary teams are working tirelessly to save a sick elephant in Ampara, Sri Lanka. The male elephant, believed to be between 25 and 30 years old, was found collapsed at Sammanthurai and is receiving intensive treatment. According to the Ministry of Environment, the elephant appeared healthy but had an unusually swollen abdomen, with no visible injuries. The cause of the condition is suspected to be poisoning or a gastrointestinal blockage from consuming indigestible material like polythene.
Wildlife officials, veterinary teams, the Army, and Police are all collaborating on this joint operation. Essential antibiotics were administered on Thursday, and wildlife officials are monitoring the elephant's condition closely. Heavy rainfall has caused flooding at the site, making treatment challenging, so authorities are preparing the ground with sand to facilitate ongoing care.
The Army has deployed 10 personnel to assist the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and Police are also supporting the operation. Wildlife officers remain on the ground around the clock to monitor the elephant, ensure its safety, and administer medication as needed.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
