Baby elephant rescued in Nairobi: Pictures

A wildlife trust in Nairobi, Kenya, launched an unusual rescue recently when an elephant and two ostriches had to be lifted to safety.

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's Elephant and Rhino Orphanage in Nairobi National Park were made aware of the plight of the young elephant calf after it had fallen down a well.

Rob Brandford, UK Director, said: "On the 13th October we received a report about a young elephant calf that had been rescued having fallen down a well dug for Samburu livestock in the remote Milgis Lugga northern Kenya. The Milgis Trust scouts attempted to reunite him with the herd but sadly this did not succeed and yesterday morning we were called to rescue little Wass, named after the area he was rescued.

The DSWT rescue team was met by Milgis Trust Scouts and the Kenya Wildlife Service rangers and the baby handed was over into their care along with two other unexpected orphans - tiny ostrich chicks.

The Trust is hoping that the elephant and ostriches might make friends. "We're not sure if by being rescued together it might mean a burgeoning friendship might occur but it's always possible!"

All young elephants are extremely fragile, not least when they have experienced being separated from their mother. Rob says: "We are currently providing Wass the specialist care he needs at this difficult time as he adjusts to his new surroundings and slowly builds up his strength. If readers would like to support the DSWT's work, donations can be made at https://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/. "