Mana Pools National Park, located in Zimbabwe, Africa, is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site and conservation area that hosts a rich variety of wildlife. From hippos lounging in the water to crocodiles basking in the sun, and over 300 species of birds filling the air with vibrant sounds and color, this oasis is truly a haven for nature lovers. The park is not only a destination for awe-inspiring encounters with nature but also a critical sanctuary for many endangered species. A dedicated team of caretakers, veterinarians, and conservationists work tirelessly to ensure that the animals within this protected area are safe, healthy, and thriving.
So when a call came in about an injured elephant roaming the park, the team of veterinarians didn’t hesitate. They immediately jumped into action, loading up their truck and heading out to locate and assist the distressed animal. What they couldn’t have anticipated, however, was the way this gentle giant would approach them — calmly, almost as if he understood that help had finally arrived, and was ready to receive it.
When they found the elephant, the team could immediately see something was wrong. Upon closer examination, they discovered a shocking sight: a visible hole in the elephant’s head. This majestic animal, whom they affectionately named “Pretty Boy,” had been the victim of a gunshot wound, inflicted weeks earlier. Unbelievably, Pretty Boy had been walking around with a bullet lodged deep in his skull all this time, silently enduring the pain.
Veterinarians Keith Dutlow and Lisa Marabini, from AWARE Trust Zimbabwe, a non-profit veterinary conservation organization, responded quickly once they received the distress call. They expected to spend hours tracking the wounded elephant, believing he would likely be frightened or hidden deep within the park. But to their amazement, Pretty Boy defied all expectations. He didn’t run or hide. Instead, he calmly approached their vehicle, as if he knew that these strangers were there to help. His demeanor was gentle, and he made himself completely available for examination within just thirty minutes of their arrival.
AWARE Trust Zimbabwe later posted about the event on social media, stating, “He made himself available for examination within half an hour, coming right up to their car.” The team took an X-ray of Pretty Boy’s skull, which, in their professional opinion, confirmed the presence of a deformed bullet. It appeared that the shooter had aimed too high for a lethal shot. Instead of penetrating his brain, the bullet had glanced off his skull, fracturing the bones in his sinuses and causing a serious injury. The bullet had embedded itself nearly two inches from the entry wound.
The wound had become badly infected over time, and the vets described gray pus seeping from the site — something they had never witnessed before. It was a gruesome injury that required immediate attention. The veterinary team carefully removed fragments of bone from the wound, thoroughly cleaned and disinfected the area, and administered a strong course of antibiotics to fight off the infection. Despite the severity of the injury, the X-ray revealed that Pretty Boy had been incredibly lucky — the bullet missed a fatal point by less than an inch. It was nothing short of a miracle that he had survived the initial trauma, let alone managed to roam the park for weeks without succumbing to the infection or pain.
As they treated Pretty Boy, the veterinarians noticed signs that this was not the first time he had been shot. He likely suffered the injury outside the protected boundaries of the national park and had wandered into Mana Pools seeking refuge. Given the cruelty he had endured at the hands of humans, it was astounding how calm and trusting he remained in the presence of those trying to help him. His gentle nature and cooperation deeply moved the team.
After the surgical procedure, Pretty Boy slowly woke up and found comfort in the shade of a nearby tree, where he lay down to rest. The following day, the change in him was already evident. The pain had subsided, and he appeared much more relaxed and at ease. Thanks to the dedication and compassion of the veterinary team, Pretty Boy had a new lease on life. Now safely within the park, he could be monitored and protected, free from the threat of poachers and senseless violence.
The story of Pretty Boy’s rescue quickly spread online, shining a spotlight on the incredible work of AWARE Trust Zimbabwe, which is Zimbabwe’s only veterinary conservation trust. Their mission is to provide critical veterinary care to wildlife in need and to support conservation efforts throughout the region.
Elephants are majestic, intelligent, and social creatures that form deep bonds with their herds and play vital roles in their ecosystems. The fact that any person could cause such harm to these gentle giants is heartbreaking. This cruel act highlights the urgent need to protect elephants from illegal hunting and poaching.
Pretty Boy’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on the lives of animals in need. The veterinary team’s swift action and compassionate care not only saved an elephant’s life but also restored faith in humanity’s ability to do good.
Please take a moment to share this story and help raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. Let’s work together to protect animals like Pretty Boy from harm and ensure that future generations can continue to witness the beauty and wonder of elephants in the wild. Hunting must stop — these incredible animals deserve our respect and protection.
