Home / Environment / Elephant Calf Airlifted for Rare Bone Disease Treatment
Elephant Calf Airlifted for Rare Bone Disease Treatment
6 Nov
Summary
- An 18-month-old elephant calf was airlifted to Gujarat for treatment.
- The calf suffers from osteopenia, a severe bone disease causing fractures.
- Experts recommended euthanasia, but advanced treatment was sought.
An 18-month-old elephant calf, named Maya, has been airlifted from Kochi, Kerala, to Vantara in Gujarat on Friday, November 6, 2026, for urgent medical treatment. The calf was suffering from osteopenia, a severe bone disease that caused multiple fractures in her legs, leading to a critical health decline.
Originally rescued in April 2025, Maya was hand-reared at Abhayaranyam in Ernakulam. Her condition deteriorated significantly after a fall in July 2026, resulting in worsening fractures and other complications. A medical board recommended euthanasia on October 29, 2026, citing poor survival prospects and the likelihood of prolonged suffering.
However, veterinary experts advised seeking advanced treatment at Vantara in Gujarat. The facility offered comprehensive care, including an intensive care unit for wildlife, and agreed to treat Maya free of charge. This move provides a chance for survival and recovery for the rare case.
This is reportedly the first known case of osteopenia in captive wildlife in the state. Experts believe underlying parathyroid-related issues may be contributing to the calf's skeletal health problems. The successful airlift offers hope for Maya's future, with Vantara aiming to return her if she survives the intensive treatment.
