A recent incident at a safari park in Karachi, Pakistan, has brought attention to the tragic death of a 19-year-old African elephant named Sonia. Veterinary surgeons discovered that Sonia succumbed to a bacterial infection that had spread throughout her body from her foot. This revelation has raised concerns about the handling of animals by Pakistani authorities, as such infections typically do not develop rapidly.
An autopsy conducted by the Vienna-based animal welfare organization, Four Paws, revealed that Sonia's death was a result of prolonged species-inappropriate living conditions and malnutrition. This unfortunate event underscores the pressing need for improved elephant management practices.
Sonia, who was brought to Pakistan in 2009 along with three other elephants, was a small adult elephant. Her companion, Noor Jahan, passed away at a Karachi zoo last year at the age of 17. Recently, Sonia was reunited with her sister Madhubala, who had been transferred from the Karachi Zoological Garden to be with her family. Madhubala had been separated from her sisters, Sonia and Malika, for approximately 15 years.
Following Sonia's death, Four Paws conducted a post-mortem examination that revealed the presence of various bacteria in her body. The source of the bacteria was an advanced abscess on Sonia's foot, which had only been recently discovered and treated during the relocation of Madhubala. Four Paws has recommended an urgent prophylactic treatment plan for Malika and Madhubala, including antibiotic treatment and blood tests before and after the administration of the medication.
Despite these efforts, the tragic loss of Sonia has highlighted the need for enhanced care and attention to the remaining elephants in captivity. Dr. Amir Khalil, a veterinarian with Four Paws, plans to visit Pakistan in February to assess the well-being of the remaining elephants and ensure that they receive the necessary care and treatment.
Pakistan has faced challenges in the past regarding the management of elephants in captivity. In 2020, Kaavan, known as the 'world's loneliest elephant,' was relocated from a Pakistani zoo to a sanctuary in Cambodia with the support of singer and actor Cher, who advocated for his rescue.
