Early on a recent Friday morning the Faculty's wildlife clinic was contacted about a vagrant kudu bull wandering on Airport Road in Doornpoort, Pretoria.
The Faculty dispatched its wildlife vets to the area as soon as possible. At the scene there were already numerous vehicles and people but fortunately the bull was relatively calm and he made himself comfortable behind a bush.
According to specialist wildlife veterinarian Dr Jacques O'Dell, who was at the scene, the bull had some minor injuries and some bleeding was noticeable on its mouth. Members of the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) then temporarily halted traffic so that Dr O'Dell could dart the animal.
After a preliminary examination a decision was taken to transport him to the wildlife clinic's boma at the faculty for observation and treatment of his wounds. Still under general anesthesia, the kudu was transported to the faculty on a member of the public's truck while the TMPD escorted the truck and the vets to Onderstepoort.
According to Dr O'Dell the kudu's wounds were mainly caused by his attempts to get through some fences. The kudu was released in the Groenkloof Nature Reserve after he recovered from his injuries.
The treatment of wild animals is expensive. If you want to contribute towards the care of the kudu or any other cases you can make a donation as follows:
Bank: ABSA
Account number: 4064380892
Reference number: A1E594/03600
The kudu in the wildlife clinic's boma where he recovered until he was released.
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