Injured Wild Elephant Found Dragging Leg in Kanchanaburi Drone Planned for Targeted Medication

Social media shared images of a wild elephant dragging its leg in Thong Pha Phum district, Kanchanaburi. The elephant has now been found, showing signs of improvement as it walks back into its herd, heading toward the deep forest. Veterinary teams plan to use drones to locate and administer treatment.

Earlier, social media users posted images and information about a wild elephant injured on its leg, dragging it as it walked. The injury was believed to have resulted from a fight among elephants in Thong Pha Phum district, Kanchanaburi, causing widespread concern among local residents.

In the latest update today (11 Nov 2026), Ms. Kanchana Silpa-archa, Chair of the Advisory Committee of the Chart Thai Pattana Party, posted a message on her Facebook page. “NuNa Silpa-archa” She stated that, out of concern, she coordinated with Mr. Rachan Buatri, Director of the Protected Area Regional Office 3 (Ban Pong), to follow up on the facts and assistance efforts.

Mr. Rachan Buatri, Director of Protected Area Office 3 (Ban Pong), reported that the incident occurred within Lam Khlong Ngu National Park, near Ban Thipuye, Village 3, Chalae subdistrict, Thong Pha Phum district, Kanchanaburi. On 9 Nov, a wildlife veterinary team led by Ms. Laksana Prasitchai, a specialist veterinarian, along with officials, surveyed the area at the edge of the highland forest behind local rubber plantations. They assessed the elephant’s condition and planned treatment, highlighting three key points.

• Elephant’s condition improving and rejoining herd Initial monitoring found that the wild elephant had improved its ability to walk and had moved from its original location to rejoin a herd of about 25 elephants. The herd then moved toward the deep forest, increasing safety risks. As a result, veterinarians have been unable to approach the elephant closely to examine wounds directly.

• Weather conditions hinder aerial survey Currently, the area experiences unstable weather and strong winds, forcing officials to temporarily suspend drone flights. Once the winds calm and weather improves, drones will be deployed again to precisely locate the elephant.

• Plan to treat with remote drug delivery Park officials and veterinarians continue to closely monitor the situation, planning to use dart guns to deliver anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medication from a distance to prevent infection and relieve injury. This operation will commence as soon as the elephant’s exact location is confirmed and conditions are safe.

Ms. Kanchana expressed gratitude to the Director of Protected Area Office 3 (Ban Pong), the veterinary team, and all Lam Khlong Ngu National Park staff for their dedicated efforts in wildlife care. Updates on treatment progress will be provided as available.