As Mercury Dips, Wildlife SoS Turns Up The Warmth For Rescued Animals
Agra, December 2 (TNA) As northern India begins to feel the winter chill, Wildlife SOS has implemented a series of thoughtful measures to ensure the rescued elephants and sloth bears in its care stay warm, healthy, and comfortable. At the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in Mathura and the Agra Bear Rescue Facility, the focus remains on creating an environment that meets the unique needs of animals once subjected to oppression and cruelty.
To shield rescued elephants at the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in Mathura from the biting cold, woolen blankets, meticulously crafted with an extra insulating layer, are provided to geriatric elephants most vulnerable to low temperatures.
Additionally, their enclosures are equipped with halogen lamps and tarpaulin covers to block cold winds. The elephants enjoy clove and sesame oil massages that enhance circulation and relieve arthritis, a common ailment in geriatric elephants. Their diets are enriched with jaggery, spices, and warm porridge to boost digestion and body heat.
Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder & CEO of Wildlife SOS, said, “Our elephants have endured enough hardships. Ensuring their comfort during winter is a priority, especially for the older ones who are more susceptible to cold-related ailments.”
Wildlife SOS operates the world’s largest sloth bear rescue facility in Agra, where the bears are receiving specialised winter care. Their diet now includes warm porridge made with pearl millet (bajra), chicken broth or boiled eggs for protein, and dates for added nutrition. To strengthen their immunity, the veterinary team administers liver supplements along with vitamins, ensuring the bears stay healthy and comfortable during the colder months.
Bedding materials like paddy straw and dried grass are generously spread across their enclosures, dens, and hammocks. For bears with arthritis, heaters are installed to provide additional comfort. During sunny afternoons, the bears often retreat to their dugout mud pits to bask in the sun and nap peacefully.
Dr. S. Ilayaraja, Deputy Director- Veterinary Services of Wildlife SOS, said, “Winter care is crucial for both the elephants and bears under our care. Beyond warmth, we aim to strengthen their immunity and ensure they enjoy a season filled with comfort and enrichment.”