With deep sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of Nelion, casting a somber shadow over the triumphs and challenges of his inspiring journey.
Nelion’s story began in 2013 when he arrived at our care center, a victim of dehydration and starvation, bony and fragile.
Over seven transformative years, Nelion underwent a remarkable metamorphosis, evolving from a vulnerable, skeletal orphan into a majestic 9-year-old elephant adorned with impressive ivory. This transformation symbolizes the success of our reintegration efforts.
The celebratory moment came on August 13, as Nelion returned to the wild alongside his independent orphan companions at the Voi Reintegration Unit.
The joy, unfortunately, was short-lived as Nelion carried the brutal scars of a lion attack on his rear end, sending shockwaves through our team.
Our dedicated Keepers promptly sprang into action, meticulously tending to Nelion’s wounds. Despite initial treatments and veterinary intervention by Dr. Poghon, tragedy struck on August 24 when Nelion, who had displayed signs of recovery, suddenly collapsed, leaving us devastated.
Autopsy results unveiled a deep compaction of the gut, shedding light on the underlying complexities of Nelion’s condition.
Despite the administration of care, laxatives, and molasses to alleviate his suffering, the gravity of Nelion’s internal injuries proved insurmountable, ultimately resulting in his untimely passing.
Nelion’s unexpected departure leaves an indelible void in our hearts. His untamed spirit, resilience, and pursuit of independence stood as a testament to the transformative impact of our collective endeavors in elephant conservation.
We mourn the loss of our cherished friend, whose presence brought immeasurable joy to us and his orphan elephant family.
While Nelion’s narrative concludes prematurely, his legacy will endure through the lessons learned and the steadfast commitment to the well-being of elephants.
His resilience serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by these magnificent beings in the wild.
Rest in peace, dear Nelion. Your memory will forever linger in the hearts of those who cherished your presence.
As we traverse the complex terrains of wildlife conservation, our commitment remains unwavering to guarantee that each rescued elephant has the opportunity to taste the freedom and wild essence they momentarily reclaimed.