KARACHI: In a troubling development following the case of elephant Noor Jahan, her sister Sonia has also contracted a severe infection at Karachi’s Safari Park.
Reports on Wednesday revealed that African elephant Sonia, aged between 17 and 19 years, has been experiencing leg swelling for the past week, with no signs of improvement despite ongoing treatment.
The swelling in Sonia’s legs has worsened, mirroring the condition previously observed in Noor Jahan. Sources indicate that the park administration has attempted various local remedies, but none have been successful.
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Safari Park Director Syed Amjad Hussain Zaidi acknowledged Sonia’s illness, stating she had been unwell for some time but is now on the path to recovery. He attributed her condition to limited space for free movement. In response to recommendations from Four Paws experts, the park has extended her area to seven acres, with ongoing sanctuary work expected to be completed within a month.
Katharina Braun, a spokesperson for Four Paws International, stated: “They are currently waiting for test results; once they know more, they can advise on a treatment for Sonia and decide on the next steps.”
Sonia, originally named Sonu, was mistakenly identified as male by the Safari Park staff. She was captured along with three other elephants from Tanzania in 2009 when she was very young.
