Home 
Network News Network News ZCTF: The Father of Mana Rises Again
Network News Network News ZCTF: The Father of Mana Rises Again
|
ZCTF: The Father of Mana Rises Again |
|
Those of you who frequent Mana Pools may be familiar with Oliver, a large friendly bull elephant, known by the locals as the "Father of Mana". Oliver is to Mana Pools what Tusker was to Kariba - loved by everyone who has had the privilege of making his acquaintance. A few weeks ago, we received a phone call from a distraught Yvonne Edwards of Chinoyi who had just returned from Mana Pools. She noticed a large, open, superating gash, about a foot long, in Oliver's front leg which was swollen to almost twice its normal size. He was obviously in pain because he was not able to put any weight on the injured leg and he was having difficulty foraging for food. Thanks to those of you who assisted us with funds to purchase the tranquilizer, M99, it was possible to help Oliver. Dr Chris Foggin went to Mana to assess the severity of Oliver's wound and initially decided against darting him because he was afraid that once the great elephant went down, he would not be able to get up again due to the pain in his leg. However, after further consideration, he decided that something would have to be done so he returned to Mana by air with Norman Monks of National Parks Mana Pools but they had to abort the attempt because of a severe storm. Dr Foggin, his son Greg and Norman Monks went in again by road on the 15th November and managed to dart Oliver with M99. Once the tranquilizer started taking effect, the rescue team pushed against his body to try and make him go down in a sitting position, to ensure that he would be able to get up again. Dr Foggin cleaned out the wound and administered a strong antibiotic and then the reversal drug was given. The team had to use all their strength to help Oliver back onto his feet again. It was an emotional moment when Oliver stood up, with some of the team shedding tears of joy. A triumphant cheer went up and the National Parks staff chanted "the Father of Mana Pools has risen!" Thanks so much to Yvonne Edwards whose perseverance has possibly saved Oliver's life. Yvonne and her husband Neville assisted with the rescue mission and the photos were taken by Yvonne herself. Below this report is Yvonne's personal account of the rescue mission. A very big thank you also to Dr Chris Foggin, his son Greg, Norman Monks, Felix and all the National Parks staff at Chinoyi, Mana Pools and Marongora who made such a huge effort to save this elephant. Johnny Rodrigues Chairman for Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force Landline: 263 4 336710 Landline/Fax: 263 4 339065 Mobile: 263 11 603 213 Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Website: www.zctf.mweb.co.zw Website: www.zimbabwe-art.com |
