An elephant calf that had been under care at the Wildlife Transit and Treatment Centre (WTTC) in Coimbatore was shifted to the Kozhikamuthi Elephant Camp in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR) on Thursday for continued rehabilitation and long-term care.

The calf was transported at around 5 a.m. on the advice of veterinarians, who recommended an early-morning transfer to minimise heat exposure and reduce stress during the journey.

The transfer was carried out under the guidance of senior Forest Department officials, including the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, the Chief Conservator of Forests and Field Director of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, and the District Forest Officer of the Coimbatore Forest Division.

The calf was separated from its herd in April this year. Forest Department personnel initially attempted to reunite it with its mother in the wild. However, repeated efforts were unsuccessful as the herd did not accept the calf. Subsequently, officials brought the animal to the WTTC at Pethikuttai, where it has since been undergoing rehabilitation and care.

Forest officials said all precautionary measures were taken to ensure the calf’s safety and well-being during the transfer. Veterinary personnel and forest staff continuously monitored the animal’s health throughout the journey.

The calf will continue to receive specialised care and rehabilitation at the Kozhikamuthi Elephant Camp under the supervision of experienced mahouts, forest staff and veterinary teams.

Officials said the relocation was undertaken to support the calf’s recovery, rehabilitation and long-term welfare.