PUBLISHED : 23 Sep 2025 at 05:01
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A caretaker looks after ‘Khaotom’, a young wild elephant calf after it fell into a pit and injured its right hind leg in the Huai Chani forest area of Kanchanaburi. (Photo courtesy of Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation)
KANCHANABURI: A young wild elephant calf, affectionately called “Khaotom”, is receiving emergency care after falling into a pit and injuring its right hind leg in the Huai Chani forest area.
The calf was found separated from its herd on Sunday, following a report from local villagers. Officials from Lam Khlong Ngu National Park quickly responded, sealing off the area and coordinating with elephant conservation networks.
Park chief, Akkanit Klangpraphan, confirmed that the calf appeared weak and was unable to walk properly. Veterinary teams from Protected Area Regional Office 3 (Ban Pong) were called in and arrived late that night to assess the injury. While awaiting medical support, 8–10 volunteers, villagers, and park staff monitored the calf closely.
By Monday morning, the calf’s condition had improved slightly, though it remains under veterinary supervision. Department of National Parks Director-General Atthapol Charoenchansa has instructed staff to provide close care until the calf fully recovers.
Veterinarian Pattarapol Manee-on, head of the Wildlife Health Management Division, said the calf was named “Khaotom” after being fed rice porridge water to boost its strength. The herd is currently located about 10km from the site, making reunification unlikely.
The calf’s injury — believed to be muscular, ligament-related, or possibly bone damage– will require X-ray diagnostics before treatment can proceed. A transport vehicle is being prepared to move Khaotom from Lam Khlong Ngu National Park to Bueng Chawak Wildlife Sanctuary in Suphan Buri, with the relocation expected Tuesday.
To support the calf’s nutrition, Pattra Elephant Farm in Chiang Mai has sent elephant milk and colostrum, which are vital for building immunity in newborn elephants. Additional milk supplies are being coordinated with elephant camps in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.