Elephant Calf Maya Airlifted for Specialist Treatment

Elephant calf Maya was airlifted from Kerala to Vantara’s veterinary facility in Jamnagar on November 6 for specialist treatment after fractures and worsening bone problems left her unable to stand. Her recovery remains uncertain, and the transfer followed discussions about alternatives to a medical board’s recommendation of euthanasia.

Maya, about 18 months old, was found alone near Kaprikkad in April 2025 and raised at Abhayaranyam in Kerala by forest staff, veterinarians and caregivers. She was injured in a fall in July 2026. Despite physiotherapy and other care, her condition deteriorated; by late October, she had fractures in both front legs and could no longer stand. Reports also described a chest infection and pressure sores.

Kerala officials sought specialist assessment before proceeding with the medical board’s recommendation. A forest official said authorities explored whether Vantara could provide treatment, and the facility agreed to take Maya for further evaluation. The exact diagnosis has not been independently established in the reporting: Vantara and its veterinary advisers identified a possible parathyroid-related disorder, while other accounts described bone...