The Ministry of Environment has approved bringing a veterinary team from Thailand to Sri Lanka to treat Kavanthissa, a tusker currently in critical condition.
The elephant, known as one of the largest and tallest wild elephants in Sri Lanka, was found lying on the ground in the Siyambalangamuwa area this morning (16).
Kavanthissa, which roams the Galgamuwa area, had been experiencing health issues in recent weeks. Treatment began on the afternoon of September 24 for an injury to his front right leg, believed to have been caused by a gunshot wound.
Although the leg injury has reportedly improved to some extent, veterinary teams have observed other concerning symptoms, including a loss of appetite over the past few days.
Environment Minister Dr. Dhammika Patabendi had instructed the Director General of Wildlife Conservation on October 14 to ensure that wildlife offices closely monitor the elephant, which frequents areas including Galgamuwa, Giribawa and Meegalewa. The Minister also visited the site yesterday (15) to assess the elephant’s condition and review treatment efforts.
Specialist veterinary teams from the Department of Wildlife Conservation are continuing round-the-clock efforts to stabilise the elephant and save his life. Saline fluids and essential medication are being administered as part of ongoing treatment.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Environment has urged the public to avoid gathering near the treatment site, warning that crowds and noise could cause stress to the elephant and disrupt the veterinary team’s work.
Veterinarians have stressed that a quiet and calm environment is essential to help stabilise the elephant’s heart rate, blood pressure and responses during this critical period.
The public has therefore been requested to stay away from the treatment area, refrain from making noise or using drones, and allow veterinary professionals to carry out their work without disturbance.
