When a baby elephant named Chanam became separated from her herd, her survival hung in the balance. Thanks to the swift action of local villagers, conservation organizations, and Wildlife Alliance, Chanam’s story became one of hope and determination. Here’s how her incredible rescue unfolded.
The Encounter
On October 30, 2024, villagers in a rural area reported hearing the sounds of an elephant herd roaming near their cassava farms. Fearing that their crops would be destroyed, the community attempted to chase the herd away using loud noises, dogs, and tools such as knives and axes. The herd retreated into the forest, but a few days later, Chanam, a young elephant calf, was spotted wandering alone on the same farmland.
It became clear that Chanam had been separated from her mother and herd, leaving her vulnerable and alone. Concerned for her well-being, a villager reached out to the local community, environmental department, WCS, and WWF for help. They, in turn, contacted Wildlife Alliance’s project manager, Mr. Roopan, to coordinate a rescue and relocation plan.
The Rescue Operation
The rescue, conducted on November 2nd and 3rd, 2024, was a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations: Wildlife Alliance, WCS, WWF, the Forestry Administration, the Environmental Department, and local community members. Under the leadership of Wildlife Alliance’s head veterinarian, Mr. Roopan, a detailed plan was crafted to safely sedate and relocate Chanam to the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center (PTWRC).
Mr. Sitheng, Wildlife Alliance’s Head Keeper, was assigned to monitor Chanam at the cassava farm while preparations for her transport were underway. The operation required meticulous planning to ensure the calf’s safety and minimize stress.
On November 3rd, Chanam was carefully sedated and loaded onto a truck for the nine-hour journey to PTWRC. The transport team, including veterinarians and mahouts, provided constant care during the trip, ensuring her comfort and safety. By 7 PM that evening, Chanam arrived safely at her new home.
A New Beginning
Upon arrival at PTWRC, Chanam was gently moved into the elephant compound, where Wildlife Alliance’s experienced mahouts have since stayed with her overnight to provide special assistance if needed. Thanks to their care and dedication, Chanam quickly adapted to her new environment. She is now under the attentive care of Mr. Vok, a Wildlife Alliance mahout, and is thriving in her new home.
Chanam’s rescue story is a testament to the power of collaboration and community. Her journey from a vulnerable calf to a thriving young elephant highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the role we all play in protecting wildlife.
Support Wildlife Rescues Like Chanam’s
Wildlife Alliance is committed to protecting and preserving wildlife, but we can’t do it without your help. By supporting our efforts, you can make a difference in the lives of animals like Chanam.
