Hoedspruit locals involved in airlifting elephants

A Hoedspruit veterinarian and Klaserie helicopter pilot was involved in a rescue operation of five elephants near the Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga.

Dr Peter Rogers Provet Wildlife Services worked with Dereck Milburn and the Wildlife Emergency Fund, a new organisation specialising in rescue of animals in imminent risk of danger, to rescue the elephants on Sunday 14 June.

Other members of the rescue team were Dr Dave Cooper from African Wildlife and Jana Meyer, a specialist wildlife helicopter pilot from Hope for Wildlife Helicopter Services in Klaserie.

The elephants were roaming a number of unsecure farms, and they were at risk of being eliminated by authorities if they were not quickly moved to a safe reserve.
“The five jumbos also risked colliding with vehicles at night, as they were crossing a number of roads between various properties while roaming. It is believed that the elephants came from a private reserve in close proximity to the Kruger National Park,” said Milburn.

The elephants were moved approximately 8 km to a secure property, managed by the Eco Ranger Group, who have committed to ensuring the long-term safety of the elephants at their new home.

The operation was supported by the Mpumalanga tourism and parks agency, which is also committed to the best outcome for these gentle giants, said Milburn.
He said the operation would not have been possible without the fundraising and support provided by Andrew Malcolm from the US.

“We are extremely thrilled about the success of the operation, especially considering that the whole team mobilised within 48 hours after receiving the initial distress call.

“This really supports our efforts to show that there are alternatives to destroying elephants which have broken out of reserves,” Milburn concluded.
The elephants are now being closely monitored by a professional team of rangers, and their safety and well-being is their first priority.