The Recovery of Mr F, The 4 Ton Elephant Bull
Saving The Survivors veterinary team recently attended to Mr F, the adult Elephant bull that is suffering from a long bone fracture in his forearm.
While still very sore, we are glad to report that his lameness has definitely improved and that he is responding to treatment. It is still a long road ahead, but at least there is some improvement after 4 weeks already.
Not easy and quite challenging working with a 4 ton, very intelligent Elephant bull, we have to thank the attending veterinarian, reserve staff, owner and off course, the support from all of you! Teamwork at its best!! That you for the support which meant that we can assist this beautiful young bull and Create Hope from Hurt.
Without your donations the prospect for Mr F would have been very poor. Join us and we can help him and others like him.
Please continue to support the work we do at Saving the Survivors
Thank you to our sponsors Ford WildLife & Craghoppers
Why are Elephant bulls important?
Although Elephant bulls are not particularly fatherly, they still play a crucial role in maintaining genetic diversity and ensuring future population growth. This is because, unlike the females, male Elephants frequently travel from one herd to the next. This allows for them to mate with different females from different herds, ensuring genetic diversity.
Male Elephants tend to leave their mothers and their herds at approximately ages 7 to 12. They then either live on their own or in groups of male herds.
Do both male and female Elephants grow tusks?
Both male and female African Elephants grow tusks. Their tusks, unlike the antlers of deer, do not shed but continuously grow throughout their lives. The tusks can grow up to seven inches each year. Whereas their Asian relatives, only the males grow tusks.
What are Elephant tusks made of?
Elephant tusks have evolved from incisor teeth. They are made up of ivory which is sought after by poachers.