Maya, an 18-month-old elephant calf from Kerala, is being transported to Gujarat for specialized treatment after suffering from a genetic bone disorder that left her unable to walk.
Maya, an 18-month-old elephant calf from Kerala, is making headlines as she embarks on a journey to Gujarat for specialized medical care. Weighing approximately 125 to 130 kilograms, Maya has been diagnosed with osteopenia, a genetic bone disorder that has rendered her unable to stand or walk independently.
After months of treatment at the Kodanad elephant centre, forest officials arranged for a chartered flight to transport Maya to Vantara in Jamnagar, where veterinary specialists will implement advanced therapies aimed at improving her condition.
The process of moving Maya was no small feat. Due to her inability to stand, a team of 10 to 12 people, along with a crane, was required to lift her into a specially designed animal ambulance. This ambulance then transported her to Nedumbassery airport near Kochi, where she boarded a chartered flight accompanied by veterinary experts and forest department officials.
Maya’s plight has captured the attention of many, including social media users who have expressed their concern and support. One user tweeted, “Meet Maya, an 18-month-old elephant calf from Abhayaranyam, Kerala. She has been unable to stand since a fall in July, and her condition is now extremely critical. At an age meant for playing and exploring, she is fighting for her life. Today, Maya is being airlifted from Kochi to Vantara for intensive care. I hope she survives. Pray for her.”
Maya was brought to the Kodanad elephant centre shortly after her birth. However, a fall in July raised serious health concerns, leading to further examinations that confirmed her diagnosis of osteopenia. Chief Wildlife Warden P. Pugazhendi explained the situation, stating, “Unfortunately, it fell once, following which we realized that it had certain genetic disorders. It was found to have osteopenia, a bone-related disorder.”
Due to the severity of her condition, Kerala officials determined that specialized medical assistance was necessary, as the state lacked the facilities required for her advanced treatment.
The veterinary specialists at Vantara have devised a comprehensive treatment plan that includes hormonal therapy and hydrotherapy. The initial treatment period is expected to last between four to six months, depending on Maya’s progress. However, officials have cautioned that her recovery cannot be guaranteed due to the nature of her genetic disorder.
Pugazhendi expressed hope for Maya’s recovery, saying, “We are sending our calf to another state with great hope for specialized treatment. We are hopeful that it will recover, and we will certainly bring it back to Kerala once it regains its health.” Notably, Vantara has agreed to cover the entire cost of Maya’s treatment.
To ensure Maya’s well-being during her time in Gujarat, the Kerala Forest Department has established a monitoring committee to oversee her condition and treatment progress. This committee will receive weekly reports on her health status. Additionally, her mahout, who has cared for her since her early days, will remain with her throughout the treatment process, alongside veterinary officials and other forest department personnel.
The Kerala Forest Department is optimistic that Maya will regain her strength and eventually return home. For now, her treatment in Gujarat represents a critical opportunity for the young calf to combat the condition that has hindered her ability to walk.
According to The Sunday Guardian, the situation surrounding Maya has garnered significant attention, highlighting the challenges faced by wildlife in need of specialized care.