Baby elephant’s rapid recovery captures public imagination

by Som Sotheary
February 10, 2025

A juvenile elephant enclosure was constructed for rescued elephant calf Lomphat at Phnom Tamao Zoo on February 5, 2025, Nuon Soksarim photo

Following her rescue and relocation to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, the elephant calf christened Lomphat is well on her path to full recovery. She has already gained 34 kgs, thanks to expert care and public support.

The female elephant was in a critical state when she was found near the headquarters of the Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary in a sorry state. Her front right leg had suffered injury owing to a snare, a tragic reminder of the dangers of man-made hazards. She was being pursued by a pack of dogs when a Ministry of Environment team spotted her.

At the time of her rescue in December last year, the baby elephant weighed 138 kgs at five months of age. She is now making remarkable progress in the care of the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue personnel, having completed two months as a resident of the Centre.

Spokeswoman at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) Im Rachna credited the dedication of the specialists along with partner organisations for the rapid improvement of Lomphat’s health. In less than two months the elephant has gone from 138 kgs to 172 kgs.

“The Ministry, along with the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, extends heartfelt gratitude to all individuals who have shown compassion for Lomphat and contributed financial support, milk powder, and other essential supplies to aid in the treatment and adaptation process after relocating to a new home,” she said.

“Visiting Lomphat and other rescued wildlife at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre not only boosts the morale of our staff but also provides crucial support for the overall operation of the centre,” Rachna added.

Rachna noted that the case of Lomphat is no different from other wildlife rescues that the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre has undertaken in the past. However, since elephants are rare and arouse significant public interest, Lomphat, in particular, has drawn attention owing to her adorable personality and young age of less than a year.