Baby Elephant Wanders Into A Puddle — Then Struggles To Get Out

He was so tired his rescuers brought him a little mattress to rest on.

For one baby elephant who was more than likely abandoned by his herd after getting himself stuck, help couldn't come quickly enough.

On Sunday, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) was alerted to the plight of the elephant, who was in need of serious assistance. The young male calf, who lives in Kenya's Tsavo National Park, had stumbled into a drying mud wallow - and was unable to escape it after becoming trapped.

Facebook/The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

"It was sadly apparent that he had struggled there for a very long time as, upon rescue, he was completely exhausted and in a state of collapse," DSWT wrote on Facebook.

The rescue team that swooped in to save him had to use straps and strength to pull the elephant, estimated to be 3 years old, from out of the mud.

Facebook/The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Once he was freed, the little elephant collapsed onto a mattress laid out for him, exhausted by his efforts to escape.

Facebook/The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

When the elephant returned to DSWT's Voi Reintegration Unit to recuperate, he was given IV fluids to help combat his dehydration.

Facebook/The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

The team used a rope to help him stay upright, as he was unable to stand on his own. Fortunately, he accepted the food they offered him as well.

Facebook/The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

"Twenty-four hours later and clearly still very weak, today he has been able to stand, which is a positive early sign," DSWT wrote on Monday. "Our team continues to provide dedicated care and we will keep you posted on his progress."

Facebook/The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

The hope is that with the help of his quick-thinking rescuers, the elephant will bounce back fully and be able to return to his home in the Kenyan wilderness.

Want to help DSWT continue doing good work for elephants in need? Consider making a contribution.

Watch this video about an elephant shot in the head who knew just whom to ask for help: