See link for photo.
—
Twenty-two-year-old wild elephant, Revaldo, of Sigur range in Nilgiris North, who was nursed back to health recently, is injured itself again. The Forest Department is taking care of the animal.
People who befriended the jumbo are paying a visit to check on its health.
Forest officials suspect Revaldo sustained injuries in a fight with another male elephant near Vazhaithottam check-post in Bokkapuram last week.
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve Veterinarian Dr. E. Vijayaragavan, Singara Ranger T. Ramesh and District Forest Officer – North, C. Badrasami oversaw the treatment for the elephant with the help of Anti-Poaching Watcher Bantan.
Mr. Bantan was feeding it medicines concealed in watermelon. Using a blow dart sprayer, medicines were also sprayed on the external injuries found on Revaldo’s tail and hind legs.
Revaldo was also administered an injection for speedy recovery. Dr. Vijayaragavan said Revaldo was being co-operative.
Revaldo became friendly with villagers about a year ago when it was battling similar wounds.
The elephant first befriended Mark who was running a private resort in Sigur. After Mark passed away, Revalto used to visit the resort, apparently in search of him.
Now Bantan has become Revaldo’s best friend and the animal obeys all his commands.
—