Local animal campaigners who saved the animal said: “We suspect he was shot in head first and turned to flee and the poacher put a bullet in his side”
An elephant who is suspected to have been shot in the head by poachers in Zimbabwe has survived and is incredibly now on the mend.
Veterinarians from Aware Trust Zimbabwe in Mana Pools National Park rushed to help the animal after it stumbled in their direction.
It is thought to have been living with the bullet in its head for up to six weeks.
The area is a hot spot for poachers, hoping to gather ivory by slaughtering the animals.
Dr Lisa Marabini told the BBC that her team sedated the animal, and found the bullet following an X-ray.
It is thought that the animal is 25 years old.
She said: “We think he was shot outside of the park and came into the park for refuge.
“We suspect he was shot in head first and turned to flee and the poacher put a bullet in his side.”
Vets have now nicknamed the elephant Pretty Boy.
The injured animal approached the vets, and showed no anger or agression.
She said: “It’s like he knew we were there with the intention of helping him.”
As well as being shot in the head, the animal also has a shoulder injury.
It is hoped it will make a good recovery.-Mirror
1 Comment