A giraffe calf has been rescued after becoming trapped inside an electrically fenced area near Mara Ripoi Conservancy, although the young animal's mother died before help could arrive.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Mara Veterinary Unit responded after receiving a report from the Elephant Aware team about a giraffe cow and her calf that had become trapped inside the fenced area.
The two giraffes had no access to water, raising concern over their survival.
Tragically, the mother did not survive, leaving the young calf orphaned.
Veterinarians and wildlife teams then carefully guided the calf out of the enclosure and through the fenced sections before moving him into Mara Ripoi Conservancy.
The rescue has given the young giraffe access to food and water while also providing an opportunity to integrate with other giraffes in the conservancy.
Wildlife teams said the calf is fortunate to be a well-developed juvenile and is already capable of moving independently and browsing for food.
“He is a well-developed juvenile, capable of moving independently and browsing,” the rescue team said.
The calf will now be closely monitored to determine whether he is feeding properly, integrating with the herd and adapting to his new surroundings.
The incident has also highlighted the dangers that wildlife can face when fences and other human infrastructure intersect with natural animal movement routes.
Electric fences are increasingly used around farms, conservancies and other properties, but they can pose serious risks to wildlife when animals become trapped or are unable to access food and water.
Wildlife conservationists are now seeking support for the calf's continued care and monitoring as he adjusts to life without his mother.
