The Ministry of Environment has approved bringing a veterinary team from Thailand to Sri Lanka to treat Kavanthissa, a prominent wild tusker currently in critical condition.
Recognised as one of the largest and tallest wild elephants in the country, Kavanthissa was found lying on the ground in the Siyambalangamuwa area on the morning of October 16. The elephant, which roams the Galgamuwa region, had faced health complications in recent weeks, with treatment initiating on the afternoon of September 24 for a front right leg injury believed to stem from a gunshot wound.
Although the leg injury has reportedly shown some improvement, veterinary teams noted new concerning symptoms, including a loss of appetite over the past few days. Minister of Environment Dr. Dhammika Patabendi had previously instructed the Director General of Wildlife Conservation on October 14 to ensure close monitoring of the elephant across areas including Galgamuwa, Giribawa and Meegalewa. The Minister also conducted a site visit on October 15 to assess the animal’s condition and review ongoing medical efforts.
Specialised veterinary teams from the Department of Wildlife Conservation are maintaining round the clock efforts to stabilise the elephant, administering saline fluids and essential medication.
The Ministry of Environment has urged the public to stay away from the treatment site. Authorities warned that crowds, noise, and drone usage could cause stress to the elephant and disrupt the veterinary team, emphasising that a calm environment is essential to stabilise the animal’s heart rate, blood pressure and vital responses. (Newswire)
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