Malaysia: Perak Wildlife Dept rescues lost baby elephant

Farah Suhaidah Othman New Straits Times 1 Apr 19;

IPOH: A three-year-old elephant, believed to have been separated from its herd, was rescued by the state Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) at Kampung Chepor, here, last Wednesday.

Its director Yusof Shariff said the male elephant, measuring about 20 centimetres, was spotted wandering near the village more than a week ago.

He said the department then deployed a team to the village to search for the animal and started the search effort on March 24.

"We were worried it may wander into nearby oil palm and rubber plantations and cause some damage." he said, adding that it took the team three days to track down the elephant.

"It is still young and the tusk is growing. We estimated the elephant to be about three years-old. It is also healthy and stable,” Yusof said when contacted.

“Even though it was raining heavily, we were able to transport the elephant out to the village area. The young mammal will be transferred to Kuala Gandah sanctuary in Pahang soon.

“At that age, we don't think it can survive on its own in the jungle.” he said.