The limping elephant was found near Purunakote about two days back when forest officials found mumps like swelling at four to five places on its body. Suspecting that it might have contracted any viral disease, an expert team from Odisha College of veterinary Science was sent to Satkosia.
The team comprised Professor and Head of Medicine Dr Niranjan Sahoo and Professor of Surgery Dr Indramani Nath who visited the site along with DFO Satkosia, SDVO, Angul and VAS of Bantala on Tuesday afternoon. It studied the behaviour and movement from a close range.
To ascertain the illness, the team decided to tranquillise the animal to probe the issue for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. However, on Wednesday morning, the elephant was found to have regained strength and headed towards a herd. When the team tried to go near it, the tusker showed aggressive behaviour.
Since the animal appeared in a better health condition compared to the last two days, it was allowed to join the herd. “However, it has been kept under close and constant watch. If any unusual behaviour is noticed, further course of action will be decided,” a senior officer said.