The Masai herders stumbled upon the solitary calf, attempting to keep pace with their grazing cattle in early June.

Despite desperate cries for companionship, Olorien was left alone as several herds passed through the area.

Elephant Aware, who was at the scene, promptly informed the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) about Olorien.

Initially, she decided to wait and observe if she could reunite with a herd. However, with each passing day and no reunion in sight, Olorien’s condition deteriorated rapidly.

On June 6, 2020, a collaborative effort involving Olarro Conservancy, Elephant Aware, and the SWT/KWS Mara Mobile Veterinary Team came together to prioritize the care of the lonely calf.

Securing approval for a rescue mission during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a hurdle, but with swift action, the green light was granted.

Two skilled nursery keepers boarded a flight from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, equipped with essential tools and medication.

The ground team meticulously planned the rescue, carefully guiding Olorien to a more accessible location using a gentle rope tied around her front leg.

With the assistance of rangers, she was lifted onto a canvas stretcher, ensuring her comfort and safety.

Transported to the Siana airstrip in a Land Cruiser, the collaboration of stakeholders ensured a smooth operation.

Upon landing, the Nairobi team swiftly brought Olorien on board. Despite the late hour, the SWT/KWS Mara Mobile Veterinary Team turned back to provide care for an injured bull discovered during the operation.

Fortunately, the bull, with three arrowheads lodged in his body, is expected to recover fully.

Olorien, estimated to be around 15 months old, showed signs of severe malnutrition and dehydration, having been separated from her mother for at least five days.

Her arrival at the Nursery was marked by initial nervousness, but her hunger prevailed, and she eagerly drank from her milk bottle.

Her first night was calm, and with Larro, a neighboring calf, providing reassurance, Olorien adjusted to her new environment.

After two days in a spacious enclosure, Olorien ventured into the forest to join the Nursery herd. Initially reserved, she gradually grew closer to her human family, especially Roho and Naleku, the youngest members receiving abundant care.

Olorien’s independent and self-reliant nature, common in female orphans with natural leadership qualities, earned her the name “Olorien,” meaning “place of the olive trees” in the Maa language—a fitting and lovely name for this stunning survivor.

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