Injured White Rhino rescued in Lewa Conservancy, Meru

KWS Northern Kenya Mobile Veterinary Unit treat a wounded male white rhino in Lewa Conservancy after a suspected fight with another male/KWS

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has rescued an injured white rhino bull in Lewa Conservancy, Meru County, following a suspected clash with another rhino.

Officers from the KWS Northern Kenya Mobile Veterinary Unit found the bull with deep cuts in the groin area and multiple wounds across its body, which they said likely resulted from a territorial fight with another male.

“The team thoroughly cleansed and debrided all wounds before administering systemic treatment,” KWS said.

The service confirmed that the rhino was returned to its natural habitat after treatment and will remain under close and continuous monitoring.

“Every intervention helps ensure that this iconic species continues to survive and thrive in the wild for generations to come,” KWS added.

The rescue comes weeks after KWS officers treated an injured cheetah in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

“When Olonyok, an 11-year-old adult male cheetah, was reported with a slight limp in the Tipilikwani area of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, the KWS Mara Vet Unit, led by Dr. Aminga, swiftly responded,” KWS said.

The team observed that the cheetah moved with a mild imbalance in the pelvic area, indicating a possible leg injury. There were no visible wounds, but slight swelling was noted around the paw.

“The injury appeared to be soft tissue in nature, most likely a muscle strain from a recent chase; a reminder that even the strongest hunters are vulnerable,” KWS said.

Using a dart gun to minimise stress, the team administered anti-inflammatory medication to Olonyok.

“Olonyok responded well, and his prognosis is good, with expectations of a full recovery,” KWS said. The cheetah will continue to be monitored to ensure complete restoration of his health.

“As he quietly retreated into the wild, there was reassurance in knowing he had received timely care. His progress will be closely monitored in the days ahead,” KWS concluded.