A newborn elephant calf is back with their mother after fishermen rescued the baby from the Teesta River in West Bengal, India, The Times of India reported.
The calf had been crossing the river with their herd near Apalchand forest when strong currents dangerously swept the young elephant nearly 2.5 miles downstream. Fortunately, fishermen spotted the little one struggling to stay afloat, with their trunk held above the water as they gasped for breath.
The men rowed toward the calf in a small boat, and three jumped into the river to help get the baby aboard. They then swam alongside the boat, pushing it against the current toward shore.
Once the boat reached the riverbank, forest personnel took the calf to a nearby range office for veterinary care.
Teams from the Baikunthapur Forest Division began searching for the mother and transported the baby to a dry stretch of riverbed where the herd was believed to be sheltering.
After nearly two hours of coordinated efforts, the calf was reunited with a relieved mama, who approached her baby and was later seen nursing them.
Lady Freethinker is grateful to the fishermen, local residents, and forest personnel whose quick action and teamwork helped save this baby and bring the family back together.
