Beloved Elephant Calf Kochayappan Dies at Konni Elephant Centre
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kochayappan, a cherished 5-year-old elephant calf at the Konni Elephant center in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, India, has died, prompting widespread grief. The calf,a major attraction at the Konni Eco-Tourism Centre,succumbed to a suspected Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) infection. The primary conclusion points to the Herpis virus as the cause of the infection.After the autopsy, he was buried in Kumnur. Samples have been collected for further testing.
Sudden Illness and Finding
Kochayappan was discovered ill early in the morning on July 3,2025,after showing signs of fatigue the previous evening. Visitors initially attributed his weariness to sleeplessness. The forest department had rescued Kochayappan from the Kacundi jungle on August 19, 2021, after observing him alone for an extended period. He was then brought to Konni.
Did You Know? EEHV is a significant threat to young elephants worldwide, with a high mortality rate if not detected and treated early.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 19, 2021 | Rescued from Kacundi jungle |
| August 2021 | Brought to Konni Elephant Center |
| July 3, 2025 | Death due to suspected EEHV |
The Threat of EEHV
EEHV poses a significant threat to young elephants, particularly those with compromised immune systems. Lakshmi, another elephant at Konni, was also affected by the virus in 2016. Experts believe that young elephants can contract the virus from other elephants in the wild. The virus is most risky to elephants under the age of 10. Early detection and treatment are crucial for survival, but the virus often progresses rapidly.
Pro Tip: Zoos and elephant sanctuaries are increasingly implementing proactive EEHV screening programs to improve survival rates among young elephants.
Kochayappan’s Early Life in the Forest
Before his rescue, Kochayappan roamed the forests of the Goodrical range. Forest officials at the Cochocheical Forest Station cared for him, naming him after the forest cars. He enjoyed bathing in the Kakatar stream and playing near waterfalls. To protect him from wild elephants, he was kept in a special enclosure at night.
A Loss for Konni
Kochayappan’s death is a significant loss for the Konni Elephant Center, which has seen several elephant deaths in recent years. In October 2014, Kannabha, an elephant brought from peterakaram, also died. In 2015, a two-month-old calf from Nilambur died due to diarrhea. Senior elephant stone bell (75) died in October 2020, followed by the Pilku Child two days later. The unchal, a 10-month-old calf, died due to complications from Idjpil. the death of Kotannat (27) occurred on April 30 of the previous year.
The Remaining Elephants at Konni
With Kochayappan’s passing, only four elephants remain at the Konni elephant Center: Krishna (23), who arrived from Mannal Varupa in 1992, and two others brought in 1991 and 2003.
what measures can be taken to prevent future deaths of elephants due to EEHV? How can the Konni Elephant Center improve its care and conservation efforts?
Evergreen Insights
Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) is a group of related viruses that can cause a rapidly progressive and frequently enough fatal hemorrhagic disease in young Asian elephants, both in captivity and in the wild. The disease is characterized by internal bleeding and organ failure. While there is no cure for EEHV, early detection and aggressive treatment with antiviral drugs can improve survival rates. Research into vaccines and more effective treatments is ongoing. The international Elephant Foundation supports research and conservation efforts to combat EEHV and protect elephant populations worldwide.
The Konni Elephant Center, established in 1952, is one of the oldest elephant training centers in Kerala, India. It serves as a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned or injured elephants. The center also plays a role in educating the public about elephant conservation and welfare.The center faces ongoing challenges in providing adequate care for its elephants, including disease management and habitat preservation.
FAQ
- What are the symptoms of EEHV in elephants?
- Symptoms can include lethargy, decreased appetite, swelling, and bleeding.
- How is EEHV diagnosed?
- EEHV can be diagnosed through blood tests and PCR assays.
- What is the treatment for EEHV?
- Treatment typically involves antiviral medications, blood transfusions, and supportive care.
- How can EEHV be prevented?
- Preventative measures include regular health monitoring and minimizing stress.
- What is the role of elephant centers in conservation?
- Elephant centers play a crucial role in rescue, rehabilitation, and education.
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