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Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

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Pioneers in the rescue, rehabilitation & rewilding of orphaned elephants and rhinos, we actively work to conserve all wildlife and wilderness areas in Kenya.

Shorts

This big bull was owning the Ithumba mud bath! Not so long ago, this sight was unthinkable. When we established our Ithumba Reintegration Unit in 2004, it was rare to see a single wild elephant. The northern sector of Tsavo had been scarred by decades of poaching and limited water resources, and as a result, wild elephants gave it a wide berth. Over the years, working in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service, we helped secure Ithumba and nurtured it into a safe, sustainable habitat. Slowly but surely, the elephants returned. It started with a single bull ‘rafiki’ – and before long, the northern sector of the park transformed into a hub for elephants. This bull is one such regular visitor – an entirely wild elephant, feeling totally at ease in his environment.

This big bull was owning the Ithumba mud bath! Not so long ago, this sight was unthinkable. When we established our Ithumba Reintegration Unit in 2004, it was rare to see a single wild elephant. The northern sector of Tsavo had been scarred by decades of poaching and limited water resources, and as a result, wild elephants gave it a wide berth. Over the years, working in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service, we helped secure Ithumba and nurtured it into a safe, sustainable habitat. Slowly but surely, the elephants returned. It started with a single bull ‘rafiki’ – and before long, the northern sector of the park transformed into a hub for elephants. This bull is one such regular visitor – an entirely wild elephant, feeling totally at ease in his environment.

29,060 views

Kinna was just days old when she was pulled from the mud in Meru in 1999. Now 26, she is living wild at Ithumba, but she has never forgotten the way home. Last December, she appeared from the east with a tiny new calf, her third daughter, Kito. Months later, the Keepers found Kinna standing watch as daughters Kama, Kaia and Kito slept beside her, her own little family gathered around her. This week, she came to visit us with Kaia and Kito. Meet the orphans whose stories span decades:

Kinna was just days old when she was pulled from the mud in Meru in 1999. Now 26, she is living wild at Ithumba, but she has never forgotten the way home. Last December, she appeared from the east with a tiny new calf, her third daughter, Kito. Months later, the Keepers found Kinna standing watch as daughters Kama, Kaia and Kito slept beside her, her own little family gathered around her. This week, she came to visit us with Kaia and Kito. Meet the orphans whose stories span decades:

14,764 views

Yesterday, we introduced you to our newest addition, Bumpy the orphaned hippo. This was his flight down to Kaluku. He was a perfect passenger – he scrambled right into Keeper Joseph's lap and spent most of the trip chattering in little hippo grunts! Bumpy is very new to the fold – he was rescued over the weekend. His mother appears to have died in a territorial fight, likely defending her baby's life. Now, Bumpy has a family with us and a wild future ahead. Read his full rescue story and become part of his journey through an adoption:

Yesterday, we introduced you to our newest addition, Bumpy the orphaned hippo. This was his flight down to Kaluku. He was a perfect passenger – he scrambled right into Keeper Joseph's lap and spent most of the trip chattering in little hippo grunts! Bumpy is very new to the fold – he was rescued over the weekend. His mother appears to have died in a territorial fight, likely defending her baby's life. Now, Bumpy has a family with us and a wild future ahead. Read his full rescue story and become part of his journey through an adoption:

302,150 views

Baby on board! If our maths is correct, Tagwa will have a baby before the year’s end. She is getting bigger and slower – all signs that she’s in the final phases of her pregnancy. While some of our expectant mums are famous for their mood swings (ahem, Murera), Tagwa has been as calm as ever. We can’t wait to meet her baby, whenever it arrives! In January 2025, a wild bull showed up at Voi and spent several days courting Tagwa. The gestation period of an elephant is 22 months, which means that her due date is drawing ever closer. Learn more about Tagwa, a ten-year-old orphan rescued, raised, and rewilded through our Orphans’ Project:

Baby on board! If our maths is correct, Tagwa will have a baby before the year’s end. She is getting bigger and slower – all signs that she’s in the final phases of her pregnancy. While some of our expectant mums are famous for their mood swings (ahem, Murera), Tagwa has been as calm as ever. We can’t wait to meet her baby, whenever it arrives! In January 2025, a wild bull showed up at Voi and spent several days courting Tagwa. The gestation period of an elephant is 22 months, which means that her due date is drawing ever closer. Learn more about Tagwa, a ten-year-old orphan rescued, raised, and rewilded through our Orphans’ Project:

16,508 views

When an ex-orphan brings her new calf home, do our Keepers get to greet the baby? Sometimes – and it's entirely up to the mother. Some, like Nasalot here, walk straight up to a familiar Keeper and let them meet the calf. Keeper Benjamin had been a part of Nasalot’s journey every step of the way since she was rescued as an infant in 2000. Today, Nasalot is all grown up and living wild but she and her family continue to visit their human-elephant family on a regular basis. Other new mothers keep the calf at a careful distance and let the Keepers observe from the side. Whatever they decide, the fact that orphans make this pilgrimage home at all is the gesture of trust. Just seeing them, thriving as a mother and a matriarch, is the reward for years of care and many sleepless nights.

When an ex-orphan brings her new calf home, do our Keepers get to greet the baby? Sometimes – and it's entirely up to the mother. Some, like Nasalot here, walk straight up to a familiar Keeper and let them meet the calf. Keeper Benjamin had been a part of Nasalot’s journey every step of the way since she was rescued as an infant in 2000. Today, Nasalot is all grown up and living wild but she and her family continue to visit their human-elephant family on a regular basis. Other new mothers keep the calf at a careful distance and let the Keepers observe from the side. Whatever they decide, the fact that orphans make this pilgrimage home at all is the gesture of trust. Just seeing them, thriving as a mother and a matriarch, is the reward for years of care and many sleepless nights.

89,365 views

Wherever Toto goes, Kindani is rarely more than a few steps away. She adopted the young bull shortly after he graduated to our Ithumba Reintegration Unit in April, browsing beside him each day and standing watch while he scratches against a favourite tree. The mud bath is where her patience shows most. Once wary of water, Toto now piles in with Natibu and Mwinzi, the brothers he grew up with at Kaluku, or enjoys a personal spa session, while Kindani waits patiently at the water’s edge until her boy is ready to move on. You can adopt Toto, to enjoy more of his recent stories, and support his journey back to the wild:

Wherever Toto goes, Kindani is rarely more than a few steps away. She adopted the young bull shortly after he graduated to our Ithumba Reintegration Unit in April, browsing beside him each day and standing watch while he scratches against a favourite tree. The mud bath is where her patience shows most. Once wary of water, Toto now piles in with Natibu and Mwinzi, the brothers he grew up with at Kaluku, or enjoys a personal spa session, while Kindani waits patiently at the water’s edge until her boy is ready to move on. You can adopt Toto, to enjoy more of his recent stories, and support his journey back to the wild:

14,207 views

Mzinga has a low opinion of baboons, and she is not shy about sharing it – head down, ears out, and a determined charge to move them along. When she is not on baboon duty, she's the Nursery's great nanny: she walks tiny Zuri to her stable every night, opens her door each morning, and lets the youngest members of the herd clamber over her while she rests. Rescued as a tiny calf, she has grown into a caring – and protective – big sister. Adopt Mzinga today and support the family she helps hold together:

Mzinga has a low opinion of baboons, and she is not shy about sharing it – head down, ears out, and a determined charge to move them along. When she is not on baboon duty, she's the Nursery's great nanny: she walks tiny Zuri to her stable every night, opens her door each morning, and lets the youngest members of the herd clamber over her while she rests. Rescued as a tiny calf, she has grown into a caring – and protective – big sister. Adopt Mzinga today and support the family she helps hold together:

24,811 views

Wonderful, breaking news! Early this morning, ex-orphan Melia returned to introduce a brand new baby girl to Head Keeper Benjamin and the rest of the Ithumba team. Moon, as we’ve named her, is Melia’s second baby. She is a lovely little elephant, bold and brimming with character. More to come, but we wanted to share the news in real time. Supporters like you make these stories possible: enabling us to rescue orphans like Melia, dedicate years to their recovery, and help them reclaim their place in the wild – paving the way for a new generation of wild elephants, like baby Moon. If you're new to our work, discover how every rescue has the potential to forge future dynasties here:

92,177 views

Kenze was two years old when he became an orphan of poaching in 2006. Today, he's a wild-living bull, roaming Tsavo on his own terms. Fortunately for us, he still chooses to circle back to the Ithumba stockades every now and then – checking in on the family that raised him, and taking full advantage of the lucerne he knows he'll be offered! Every visit is a quiet reminder of the difference we can make: an orphan who lost everything, given a second chance, now living fully wild in a vast, protected wilderness. To every adopter, monthly donor, fundraiser, and friend who stands with us — thank you 🙏 Read Kenze's full story:

Kenze was two years old when he became an orphan of poaching in 2006. Today, he's a wild-living bull, roaming Tsavo on his own terms. Fortunately for us, he still chooses to circle back to the Ithumba stockades every now and then – checking in on the family that raised him, and taking full advantage of the lucerne he knows he'll be offered! Every visit is a quiet reminder of the difference we can make: an orphan who lost everything, given a second chance, now living fully wild in a vast, protected wilderness. To every adopter, monthly donor, fundraiser, and friend who stands with us — thank you 🙏 Read Kenze's full story:

22,460 views

A lovely little peek into elephant devotion: While Lodo took a nap, ‘big brother’ Sattao stood protectively over him, almost soothing him to sleep. (An even sweeter detail: Sattao is now living wild; he popped by for a visit and took it upon himself to babysit!) This is common behaviour among elephants. More often than not, it is females giving the care – but as you see here, males also have a strong nurturing streak. Growing up in our care, these little survivors have found a loving family – one that will support them for the rest of their lives. Meet the orphans we've rescued and raised: https://

A lovely little peek into elephant devotion: While Lodo took a nap, ‘big brother’ Sattao stood protectively over him, almost soothing him to sleep. (An even sweeter detail: Sattao is now living wild; he popped by for a visit and took it upon himself to babysit!) This is common behaviour among elephants. More often than not, it is females giving the care – but as you see here, males also have a strong nurturing streak. Growing up in our care, these little survivors have found a loving family – one that will support them for the rest of their lives. Meet the orphans we've rescued and raised: https://

24,815 views

Out in front of this little procession is Iman – ex-orphan Ithumbah's firstborn, taking the big-sibling role seriously. When Ithumbah introduced her second baby last December, a strong, active but shy little girl named Iris, Iman helped look after her from the very first day, with ex-orphan Suguroi lending a trunk. Eight months on, this is how the family travels: Iman picking the route, with Iris and mum falling in behind. Two calves born wild to an orphan we rescued and raised – meet the whole next generation:

Out in front of this little procession is Iman – ex-orphan Ithumbah's firstborn, taking the big-sibling role seriously. When Ithumbah introduced her second baby last December, a strong, active but shy little girl named Iris, Iman helped look after her from the very first day, with ex-orphan Suguroi lending a trunk. Eight months on, this is how the family travels: Iman picking the route, with Iris and mum falling in behind. Two calves born wild to an orphan we rescued and raised – meet the whole next generation:

12,512 views

Sneaky, spoiled Mwana has unlocked a whole new level of relaxation: nursing and napping, in one fell swoop. Now that Murera is progressing in her pregnancy, she is less generous about breastfeeding, but Mwana still manages to sneak in sips here and there. It’s as if she thinks that Murera won’t even notice she’s there! Mwana is one of our grandkids: wild calves born to an orphan we rescued, raised, and rewilded - and the greatest testament to the success of our work. Meet our grandcalves:

Sneaky, spoiled Mwana has unlocked a whole new level of relaxation: nursing and napping, in one fell swoop. Now that Murera is progressing in her pregnancy, she is less generous about breastfeeding, but Mwana still manages to sneak in sips here and there. It’s as if she thinks that Murera won’t even notice she’s there! Mwana is one of our grandkids: wild calves born to an orphan we rescued, raised, and rewilded - and the greatest testament to the success of our work. Meet our grandcalves:

25,755 views

Little Zigi is a man in a mission. What’s the rush – catching up with mum for a drink! Just like us, mother-child relationships vary by elephants. For instance, Lima Lima is loving but quite laidback with her son, Lenny. She gives him (and herself!) a long leash. Zongoloni takes a very different approach. She is hawkishly protective of Zigi and he, in turn, is like her little shadow. We can understand why Zongoloni keeps her family close: Rescued in 2013, she stands out as one of our most heartbreaking orphan cases. Her mother was shot by poachers and then left to an agonising, drawn-out demise. Zongoloni was just a baby at the time, yet she stayed by her mother’s side until the very end. Having witnessed the very worst of mankind, it took a long time for Zongoloni to trust us. Over the years, however, she learned to love again – a love she now passes on to her son. Learn more about this remarkable elephant mum and her adorable son:

Little Zigi is a man in a mission. What’s the rush – catching up with mum for a drink! Just like us, mother-child relationships vary by elephants. For instance, Lima Lima is loving but quite laidback with her son, Lenny. She gives him (and herself!) a long leash. Zongoloni takes a very different approach. She is hawkishly protective of Zigi and he, in turn, is like her little shadow. We can understand why Zongoloni keeps her family close: Rescued in 2013, she stands out as one of our most heartbreaking orphan cases. Her mother was shot by poachers and then left to an agonising, drawn-out demise. Zongoloni was just a baby at the time, yet she stayed by her mother’s side until the very end. Having witnessed the very worst of mankind, it took a long time for Zongoloni to trust us. Over the years, however, she learned to love again – a love she now passes on to her son. Learn more about this remarkable elephant mum and her adorable son:

18,759 views

It is often said that good fathers lead by example. That is certainly true with elephants – older bulls are mentors, guardians, and founts of wisdom. They teach younger bulls how to behave and help them navigate the wild. Far from the solitary figures they’re often made out to be, bulls form strong friendships and show great loyalty. Many of our orphans, such as Kiasa and Talek, were taken under the wings of benevolent bulls until help arrived. Bulls can even step in as ‘honorary nannies,’ as this scene shows. Baby Saba (ex-orphan Sunyei’s daughter) got sleepy and settled at the feet of a visiting bull. He happily stood guard over the little girl until she was done with her nap! Follow us at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust for more stories of elephant empathy.

It is often said that good fathers lead by example. That is certainly true with elephants – older bulls are mentors, guardians, and founts of wisdom. They teach younger bulls how to behave and help them navigate the wild. Far from the solitary figures they’re often made out to be, bulls form strong friendships and show great loyalty. Many of our orphans, such as Kiasa and Talek, were taken under the wings of benevolent bulls until help arrived. Bulls can even step in as ‘honorary nannies,’ as this scene shows. Baby Saba (ex-orphan Sunyei’s daughter) got sleepy and settled at the feet of a visiting bull. He happily stood guard over the little girl until she was done with her nap! Follow us at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust for more stories of elephant empathy.

39,050 views

For most orphans, it can take a while to play – and when they do, we know they've turned a corner in their recovery. Lemeki surprised us all, charging around from the minute she exited the rescue helicopter! Even the guineafowl couldn't escape her playful antics. This flock became her best friend and the feeling was mutual. When she changed stables, they relocated and came to roost on her roof! Her start was extraordinary: rescued as a week-old newborn in 2018 after she was spotted in the floodwaters of the Mara River. Today she is eight years old and one of the lead females of our Voi herd, edging closer to a wild life of her own. Discover Lemeki's story, an orphan who has the honour being the first orphan ever raised at our Kaluku Neonate Unit:

For most orphans, it can take a while to play – and when they do, we know they've turned a corner in their recovery. Lemeki surprised us all, charging around from the minute she exited the rescue helicopter! Even the guineafowl couldn't escape her playful antics. This flock became her best friend and the feeling was mutual. When she changed stables, they relocated and came to roost on her roof! Her start was extraordinary: rescued as a week-old newborn in 2018 after she was spotted in the floodwaters of the Mara River. Today she is eight years old and one of the lead females of our Voi herd, edging closer to a wild life of her own. Discover Lemeki's story, an orphan who has the honour being the first orphan ever raised at our Kaluku Neonate Unit:

24,531 views

Our Keepers move between units as elephants grow — Nursery, Voi, Kaluku, and Umani. When Mzinga arrived at our Nairobi Nursery, Sammy was there to shepherd her through her earliest, most vulnerable days. But rewind a few years, and he was in Voi, bonding with an elephant who still holds a special place in his heart: Murit. "I looked after him and he became very attached to me. We were both new to Voi, so we created a bond and leaned on each other.Whenever he heard my voice, he started shouting to get my attention. Even when I would take a few steps away from him, he would be right there, following me. It was hard to leave him when I returned to the Nursery after a few years, but by that time he was strong and didn’t need me. It makes me happy to know that he is big and independent and even starting to find his way in the wild."

Our Keepers move between units as elephants grow — Nursery, Voi, Kaluku, and Umani. When Mzinga arrived at our Nairobi Nursery, Sammy was there to shepherd her through her earliest, most vulnerable days. But rewind a few years, and he was in Voi, bonding with an elephant who still holds a special place in his heart: Murit. "I looked after him and he became very attached to me. We were both new to Voi, so we created a bond and leaned on each other.Whenever he heard my voice, he started shouting to get my attention. Even when I would take a few steps away from him, he would be right there, following me. It was hard to leave him when I returned to the Nursery after a few years, but by that time he was strong and didn’t need me. It makes me happy to know that he is big and independent and even starting to find his way in the wild."

29,755 views

Enkesha's job interview to be Lenny's Chief Nanny began in this moment. Ever since his birth in December 2024, our ex-orphan, whose trunk was nearly severed by a snare, has consistently been one of his most dedicated caregivers. This is saying something, given how many older females compete for the job. Nowadays that trunk is working harder than ever, shepherding him about the forest and breaking up the compacted mineral-rich soil with her tusks so Lenny can access it. When baboons blocked his path and he trumpeted for help, she was among the first to arrive. Earlier this year, Keepers witnessed Enkesha mating with a wild bull so in less than two years' time, she might have her own baby to look after. Given what she's like with Lenny, she'll be a natural.

Enkesha's job interview to be Lenny's Chief Nanny began in this moment. Ever since his birth in December 2024, our ex-orphan, whose trunk was nearly severed by a snare, has consistently been one of his most dedicated caregivers. This is saying something, given how many older females compete for the job. Nowadays that trunk is working harder than ever, shepherding him about the forest and breaking up the compacted mineral-rich soil with her tusks so Lenny can access it. When baboons blocked his path and he trumpeted for help, she was among the first to arrive. Earlier this year, Keepers witnessed Enkesha mating with a wild bull so in less than two years' time, she might have her own baby to look after. Given what she's like with Lenny, she'll be a natural.

28,310 views

Hey there Bumpy. Hippos spend most of their day in water – it's where they cool off, where they sleep, where calves are born. It's also where Bumpy feels calmest and most comfortable, bobbing around in his own personal pool at our Kaluku Neonate Unit. His family is a tad eclectic, made up of buffalo, elephants and their human caregivers. The thread that binds them all? Every animal is an orphan, on their own path back to the wild. Find out how you can support Bumpy through an adoption:

Hey there Bumpy. Hippos spend most of their day in water – it's where they cool off, where they sleep, where calves are born. It's also where Bumpy feels calmest and most comfortable, bobbing around in his own personal pool at our Kaluku Neonate Unit. His family is a tad eclectic, made up of buffalo, elephants and their human caregivers. The thread that binds them all? Every animal is an orphan, on their own path back to the wild. Find out how you can support Bumpy through an adoption:

33,702 views

Only at Kaluku would a giraffe be the one keeping an eye on the orphaned elephants. Twiggy came to us at a week old and grew into the compound's unlikely nanny, presiding over a following of buffaloes, zebras and antelopes, and drifting down to mud bath to check on the elephant and rhino orphans. She lives wild now, and went on an adventure with a bull last November – but recently she looped back for a visit, heading straight to the Keepers who raised her♥️ Discover her story:

Only at Kaluku would a giraffe be the one keeping an eye on the orphaned elephants. Twiggy came to us at a week old and grew into the compound's unlikely nanny, presiding over a following of buffaloes, zebras and antelopes, and drifting down to mud bath to check on the elephant and rhino orphans. She lives wild now, and went on an adventure with a bull last November – but recently she looped back for a visit, heading straight to the Keepers who raised her♥️ Discover her story:

16,758 views

It's hard to believe Chamboi was once so small our team could easily carry him in their arms. He used to squeak constantly for reassurance and comfort, but today - he's a teenager with a strut that is full of confidence! Why was he so small? Well Chamboi was rescued as a newborn in September 2023 – found alone by rangers near a waterhole in Tsavo West at barely a day old, his mother nowhere to be found. We brought him to Kaluku, so he could grow up and reintegrate back into the same ecosystem he was rescued from. He's still on that journey, growing up among orphaned elephants, Pips the giraffe and an assortment of other orphaned animals. But as black rhinos are want to be, Chamboi keeps to his own beat. He likes long walks, unhurried mud baths, a midday sleep, and afternoon play. Nearly always in that order. Around 6,788 black rhino remain in the wild, so every animal saved (and rewilded) counts. Become a part of his story by adopting him, and your adoption can help fund his milk, care and Keepers:

It's hard to believe Chamboi was once so small our team could easily carry him in their arms. He used to squeak constantly for reassurance and comfort, but today - he's a teenager with a strut that is full of confidence! Why was he so small? Well Chamboi was rescued as a newborn in September 2023 – found alone by rangers near a waterhole in Tsavo West at barely a day old, his mother nowhere to be found. We brought him to Kaluku, so he could grow up and reintegrate back into the same ecosystem he was rescued from. He's still on that journey, growing up among orphaned elephants, Pips the giraffe and an assortment of other orphaned animals. But as black rhinos are want to be, Chamboi keeps to his own beat. He likes long walks, unhurried mud baths, a midday sleep, and afternoon play. Nearly always in that order. Around 6,788 black rhino remain in the wild, so every animal saved (and rewilded) counts. Become a part of his story by adopting him, and your adoption can help fund his milk, care and Keepers:

24,359 views

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A security escort for three bulls who found themselves far from home. The dry season is challenging for everyone. As resources grow scarce, elephants are increasingly tempted onto community land, where their presence can have serious consequences for people who rely on crops for food or income. Working with the Kenya Wildlife Service, our pilots provide aerial intervention to help elephants safely navigate community land and shepherd them back to the park before conflict can arise. No matter the season, we’ll be there to support elephants and the communities who live alongside them. To learn more about our donor-funded conservation work, visit:

A security escort for three bulls who found themselves far from home. The dry season is challenging for everyone. As resources grow scarce, elephants are increasingly tempted onto community land, where their presence can have serious consequences for people who rely on crops for food or income. Working with the Kenya Wildlife Service, our pilots provide aerial intervention to help elephants safely navigate community land and shepherd them back to the park before conflict can arise. No matter the season, we’ll be there to support elephants and the communities who live alongside them. To learn more about our donor-funded conservation work, visit:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

14,656 views • 1 day ago

Exactly three months ago, we were called to rescue a baby elephant who had become trapped inside a septic tank. This was the sight that greeted our team that night. Working alongside the Kenya Wildlife Service, our team worked late into the night to free little Zuri. Her herd had long since left the area, and she now needed somewhere safe to stay. We flew her to our Nairobi Nursery, where her new chapter began. Zuri has transformed from a shy, frightened wallflower into, well, a bit of a diva. In fact, she’s even giving Kipekee a run for her money! Read a special update on Zuri’s progress:

Exactly three months ago, we were called to rescue a baby elephant who had become trapped inside a septic tank. This was the sight that greeted our team that night. Working alongside the Kenya Wildlife Service, our team worked late into the night to free little Zuri. Her herd had long since left the area, and she now needed somewhere safe to stay. We flew her to our Nairobi Nursery, where her new chapter began. Zuri has transformed from a shy, frightened wallflower into, well, a bit of a diva. In fact, she’s even giving Kipekee a run for her money! Read a special update on Zuri’s progress:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,885 views • 2 days ago

Newborn rhinos are extremely vulnerable. They need to be shielded from even the slightest chill in the air, hence Chamboi's woollen, cherry red blanket. It was such a favourite when he first came into our care, that he flatly refused to wear anything else! Careful temperature regulation is just one aspect of raising orphaned black rhinos – a skill we've honed over decades of hand-raising orphaned black rhinos. Every detail matters when you're caring for one of the world's most critically endangered species. Meet the rhinos currently in our care:

Newborn rhinos are extremely vulnerable. They need to be shielded from even the slightest chill in the air, hence Chamboi's woollen, cherry red blanket. It was such a favourite when he first came into our care, that he flatly refused to wear anything else! Careful temperature regulation is just one aspect of raising orphaned black rhinos – a skill we've honed over decades of hand-raising orphaned black rhinos. Every detail matters when you're caring for one of the world's most critically endangered species. Meet the rhinos currently in our care:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

988,052 views • 9 months ago

Look closely at Ashanti’s trunk and you’ll spot the scar left by a poacher’s snare. The snare severed the tip of her trunk before her rescue, taking the two 'fingers' she would normally use to grasp her food. She has been inventing workarounds ever since. On her very first day out with the Voi herd, Ashanti dropped to her knees and began grazing straight from the ground with her mouth. The older orphans looked on, seemingly bemused, as she worked out a way to feed herself. Today, she can scoop pellets from the trough with her mouth or flip lucerne into it with a front foot. We have seen countless elephants live full, wild lives with damaged trunks, even half a trunk, and Ashanti is well on her way. Your support ensures we can be there for Ashanti and all the orphans in need of our care. Discover her story at:

Look closely at Ashanti’s trunk and you’ll spot the scar left by a poacher’s snare. The snare severed the tip of her trunk before her rescue, taking the two 'fingers' she would normally use to grasp her food. She has been inventing workarounds ever since. On her very first day out with the Voi herd, Ashanti dropped to her knees and began grazing straight from the ground with her mouth. The older orphans looked on, seemingly bemused, as she worked out a way to feed herself. Today, she can scoop pellets from the trough with her mouth or flip lucerne into it with a front foot. We have seen countless elephants live full, wild lives with damaged trunks, even half a trunk, and Ashanti is well on her way. Your support ensures we can be there for Ashanti and all the orphans in need of our care. Discover her story at:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

12,117 views • 2 days ago

We have now met 94 babies born wild to orphan elephants we rescued, raised and rewilded. In a wonderful demonstration of the lifelong bond they form with the Keepers, many of our ex-orphan mums return to our reintegration units after giving birth to show off their babies to the people who raised them. We have even witnessed several mothers returning to give birth at our units! Every rescue carries this possibility within it. At our Umani Springs unit, we are watching a new generation of elephants enter the world. What began with two elephants in 2014 – Murera and Sonje – has grown into a family herd already featuring four wild-born babies, with more on the way! This success is one of five examples of elephant conservation in action:

We have now met 94 babies born wild to orphan elephants we rescued, raised and rewilded. In a wonderful demonstration of the lifelong bond they form with the Keepers, many of our ex-orphan mums return to our reintegration units after giving birth to show off their babies to the people who raised them. We have even witnessed several mothers returning to give birth at our units! Every rescue carries this possibility within it. At our Umani Springs unit, we are watching a new generation of elephants enter the world. What began with two elephants in 2014 – Murera and Sonje – has grown into a family herd already featuring four wild-born babies, with more on the way! This success is one of five examples of elephant conservation in action:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

15,123 views • 3 days ago

Kipekee means “unique” in Swahili – and she’s certainly lived up to her name. When rescued a year ago, she was tiny enough to need a blue blanket for warmth during the day and to keep her snuggled at night. Today, following 16 months of specialist care and more than 5,000 bottles of milk – made possible with your support – she’s one of the Nursery’s big girls, growing in confidence and independence. Discover Kipekee’s story and be part of her journey back to the wild by adopting her:

Kipekee means “unique” in Swahili – and she’s certainly lived up to her name. When rescued a year ago, she was tiny enough to need a blue blanket for warmth during the day and to keep her snuggled at night. Today, following 16 months of specialist care and more than 5,000 bottles of milk – made possible with your support – she’s one of the Nursery’s big girls, growing in confidence and independence. Discover Kipekee’s story and be part of her journey back to the wild by adopting her:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

12,934 views • 3 days ago

There’s a sound Kaikai makes on the way to her bottle – somewhere between a rumble and a squeal. Her Keeper knows exactly what it means: hurry up, the milk is coming! Rescued as a tiny calf in the Maasai Mara last May after losing her mother, Kaikai now supervises the daily milk-mixing from her favourite vantage point, trunk shaking and ears flapping with excitement – before dashing down to escort her Keeper to the feeding point herself. A year on, she’s strong, spoiled and full of fun. ❤️ Adopt Kaikai and help her continue to thrive:

There’s a sound Kaikai makes on the way to her bottle – somewhere between a rumble and a squeal. Her Keeper knows exactly what it means: hurry up, the milk is coming! Rescued as a tiny calf in the Maasai Mara last May after losing her mother, Kaikai now supervises the daily milk-mixing from her favourite vantage point, trunk shaking and ears flapping with excitement – before dashing down to escort her Keeper to the feeding point herself. A year on, she’s strong, spoiled and full of fun. ❤️ Adopt Kaikai and help her continue to thrive:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

20,327 views • 6 days ago

When an elephant calf loses its mother, it loses everything – its family, its food source, its protection, its entire support system. That’s where our Keepers enter the picture: they spend every waking (and sleeping hour) with their charges, swaddling them in blankets when chilly, gently rubbing moisturising coconut oil onto their delicate skin, hand-picking favourite greens, scooping handfuls of mud and dust on their bodies, and gently helping them learn behaviours and habits – just as their mothers, nannies, and siblings would in the wild. Discover what it takes to be a neonate Keeper:

When an elephant calf loses its mother, it loses everything – its family, its food source, its protection, its entire support system. That’s where our Keepers enter the picture: they spend every waking (and sleeping hour) with their charges, swaddling them in blankets when chilly, gently rubbing moisturising coconut oil onto their delicate skin, hand-picking favourite greens, scooping handfuls of mud and dust on their bodies, and gently helping them learn behaviours and habits – just as their mothers, nannies, and siblings would in the wild. Discover what it takes to be a neonate Keeper:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

591,395 views • 8 months ago

Love isn't all about roses or grand gestures. At our Nursery in Kenya, it looks like a Keeper dragging a matress onto the lawn so a sleepy (yet playful!) orphaned infant elephant can enjoy a rest. In fact, elephants have a way of working themselves into your heart and this Valentine's Day, we'd love to help you find your orphan match – the orphaned elephant, rhino or giraffe whose story captures your heart. Visit to meet our herd and discover your perfect match!

Love isn't all about roses or grand gestures. At our Nursery in Kenya, it looks like a Keeper dragging a matress onto the lawn so a sleepy (yet playful!) orphaned infant elephant can enjoy a rest. In fact, elephants have a way of working themselves into your heart and this Valentine's Day, we'd love to help you find your orphan match – the orphaned elephant, rhino or giraffe whose story captures your heart. Visit to meet our herd and discover your perfect match!

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

415,652 views • 6 months ago

Midnight snacks for Kaikai and Bungalu! Enjoying an after-hours jaunt, they wasted no time in tucking into the tasty treats waiting outside their bedrooms. Tummies extra full, it was back to bed for our adorable, pyjamaed pair. Wherever you are in the world, you can support Bungalu, Kaikai, and all the orphans in our care through an adoption:

Midnight snacks for Kaikai and Bungalu! Enjoying an after-hours jaunt, they wasted no time in tucking into the tasty treats waiting outside their bedrooms. Tummies extra full, it was back to bed for our adorable, pyjamaed pair. Wherever you are in the world, you can support Bungalu, Kaikai, and all the orphans in our care through an adoption:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

13,494 views • 5 days ago

Raising a single orphaned elephant can take upwards of a decade. Our founder, Dame Daphne Sheldrick, was the first person to successfully hand-raise a milk dependent orphaned African elephant, and the husbandry she pioneered guides the rehabilitation of every calf we rescue. More than 300 orphan elephants have now grown up in our care, each one guided by Keepers towards a healthy adulthood and acceptance by wild herds. One of five examples of elephant conservation in action:

Raising a single orphaned elephant can take upwards of a decade. Our founder, Dame Daphne Sheldrick, was the first person to successfully hand-raise a milk dependent orphaned African elephant, and the husbandry she pioneered guides the rehabilitation of every calf we rescue. More than 300 orphan elephants have now grown up in our care, each one guided by Keepers towards a healthy adulthood and acceptance by wild herds. One of five examples of elephant conservation in action:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

16,378 views • 7 days ago

How it Started for Ndotto → How it’s Going Today! When we rescued Ndotto in 2014, he was the smallest elephant we had ever seen. We’re not sure how he lost his mother, but the resourceful little orphan inserted himself into the nearest group of similarly sized creatures, which is how he came to be found amongst a herd of sheep and goats. Luckily, he was in sympathetic company, and the rest is history. Today, Ndotto is 12 years old and leading a wild life in Tsavo East National Park, but he remains very connected to the family who raised him. He continues to visit us most mornings, popping by to say hello before going about his day. When our Voi team wakes up and finds a large elephant peacefully standing outside, they know exactly who it is – sweet Ndotto, enjoying a few home comforts before he’s off again. Because of your support, we’re able to give orphaned elephants like Ndotto the family and the wild future they deserve. To learn more about this special bull’s story, visit:

How it Started for Ndotto → How it’s Going Today! When we rescued Ndotto in 2014, he was the smallest elephant we had ever seen. We’re not sure how he lost his mother, but the resourceful little orphan inserted himself into the nearest group of similarly sized creatures, which is how he came to be found amongst a herd of sheep and goats. Luckily, he was in sympathetic company, and the rest is history. Today, Ndotto is 12 years old and leading a wild life in Tsavo East National Park, but he remains very connected to the family who raised him. He continues to visit us most mornings, popping by to say hello before going about his day. When our Voi team wakes up and finds a large elephant peacefully standing outside, they know exactly who it is – sweet Ndotto, enjoying a few home comforts before he’s off again. Because of your support, we’re able to give orphaned elephants like Ndotto the family and the wild future they deserve. To learn more about this special bull’s story, visit:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,866 views • 8 days ago

An elephant's trunk contains around 40,000 muscles, allowing the trunk to twist, shorten, elongate, and bend in any direction. Enkesha proved it as a yearling: after a poacher's snare almost severed her trunk, three vets spent three hours stitching it back together – within two days she had popped every stitch, her trunk simply too mobile for sutures to hold. It was left to heal naturally, and now she uses those same muscles to close the whole in her trunk, caused by the snare, when filling her trunk with water! Discover Enkesha's story:

An elephant's trunk contains around 40,000 muscles, allowing the trunk to twist, shorten, elongate, and bend in any direction. Enkesha proved it as a yearling: after a poacher's snare almost severed her trunk, three vets spent three hours stitching it back together – within two days she had popped every stitch, her trunk simply too mobile for sutures to hold. It was left to heal naturally, and now she uses those same muscles to close the whole in her trunk, caused by the snare, when filling her trunk with water! Discover Enkesha's story:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

15,964 views • 7 days ago

Earlier this year, a speared tusker took us on a true Tsavo odyssey: it took a month and a hundred kilometres of tracking to find him, plus the coordinated efforts of multiple SWT teams, in order to treat him. In pursuit of alleviating wildlife suffering, our teams do not give up! The initial report came in late at night. Our pilot took off at first light to locate him, but he had evaporated into the wilderness. For the next two weeks, we extensively patrolled the area, but he was nowhere to be found – no small feat for huge elephant. We had a breakthrough a month later when another SWT/KWS Anti-Poaching Team spotted a bull with the same injury. Comparing photos of the two, we knew it had to be the same elephant. Incredibly, he had walked more than 95 kilometres (60 miles) from the initial sighting. Again, it was late in the evening, so we organised a treatment for the following morning. From there, we left nothing to chance. The SWT/KWS Mobile Vet Unit mobilised to the scene – and not a moment too soon. The wound was serious – more than 18 inches deep and dangerously infected. Watch the successful treatment unfold, one of 3,918 elephant cases our SWT/KWS Veterinary Units have attended thanks to donations, which make life-saving interventions like this possible. (Catch a full write up of the operation here: )

Earlier this year, a speared tusker took us on a true Tsavo odyssey: it took a month and a hundred kilometres of tracking to find him, plus the coordinated efforts of multiple SWT teams, in order to treat him. In pursuit of alleviating wildlife suffering, our teams do not give up! The initial report came in late at night. Our pilot took off at first light to locate him, but he had evaporated into the wilderness. For the next two weeks, we extensively patrolled the area, but he was nowhere to be found – no small feat for huge elephant. We had a breakthrough a month later when another SWT/KWS Anti-Poaching Team spotted a bull with the same injury. Comparing photos of the two, we knew it had to be the same elephant. Incredibly, he had walked more than 95 kilometres (60 miles) from the initial sighting. Again, it was late in the evening, so we organised a treatment for the following morning. From there, we left nothing to chance. The SWT/KWS Mobile Vet Unit mobilised to the scene – and not a moment too soon. The wound was serious – more than 18 inches deep and dangerously infected. Watch the successful treatment unfold, one of 3,918 elephant cases our SWT/KWS Veterinary Units have attended thanks to donations, which make life-saving interventions like this possible. (Catch a full write up of the operation here: )

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

412,971 views • 8 months ago

Join an orphan elephant slumber party – sound on for the full experience. 🔊 Elephants usually sleep standing up, but they will lie down for a deep sleep when they feel completely safe. At our stockades, surrounded by each other and the Keepers who watch over them, our orphan elephants can truly rest. At bedtime, the dependent orphans are out cold – sprawled on their sides, with one or two even snoring. Get to know the herd:

Join an orphan elephant slumber party – sound on for the full experience. 🔊 Elephants usually sleep standing up, but they will lie down for a deep sleep when they feel completely safe. At our stockades, surrounded by each other and the Keepers who watch over them, our orphan elephants can truly rest. At bedtime, the dependent orphans are out cold – sprawled on their sides, with one or two even snoring. Get to know the herd:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

29,773 views • 16 days ago

This is elephant conservation in action: moving mountains to save a life and secure a species’ future. 🐘 Last year alone, our teams: • Shepherded nearly 400 elephants off community land to safety • Treated 260 elephants for injuries in the field • Supported 17 elephant rescues from dams and wells This was one such operation: a herculean, four-day mission against time, terrain and rising tides to pull off one of our most challenging rescues yet. Discover more about our elephant conservation work later, as we count down to #WorldElephantDay. Support our work:

This is elephant conservation in action: moving mountains to save a life and secure a species’ future. 🐘 Last year alone, our teams: • Shepherded nearly 400 elephants off community land to safety • Treated 260 elephants for injuries in the field • Supported 17 elephant rescues from dams and wells This was one such operation: a herculean, four-day mission against time, terrain and rising tides to pull off one of our most challenging rescues yet. Discover more about our elephant conservation work later, as we count down to #WorldElephantDay. Support our work:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

22,072 views • 11 days ago

LIVE FROM THE NURSERY: Zuri and Kipekee don’t know it, but today is their special day – the dawn of World Elephant Day! Join Edwin as he wakes up our smallest babies, before joining the rest of the Nursery herd out in the forest. Every elephant you see here is an orphan, rescued from a tragic fate and now growing up in our care. They’re at the very beginning of their journey – one that will lead all the way back to the wild. Supporters like you help us protect Kenya’s elephants and provide the round-the-clock care every orphan requires. Adopt an elephant today: Asante sana — thank you — and happy #WorldElephantDay!

LIVE FROM THE NURSERY: Zuri and Kipekee don’t know it, but today is their special day – the dawn of World Elephant Day! Join Edwin as he wakes up our smallest babies, before joining the rest of the Nursery herd out in the forest. Every elephant you see here is an orphan, rescued from a tragic fate and now growing up in our care. They’re at the very beginning of their journey – one that will lead all the way back to the wild. Supporters like you help us protect Kenya’s elephants and provide the round-the-clock care every orphan requires. Adopt an elephant today: Asante sana — thank you — and happy #WorldElephantDay!

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

20,390 views • 10 days ago

New best friends. 🐘💛 Rescued from the Maasai Mara at just days old last May, Kaikai has grown into a confident young elephant. This year, she welcomed a new companion: Bungalu. From sharing peaceful moments on the riverbank to sandy lounging sessions, these two are rarely far apart. Watching them spend time together is a beautiful reminder of the friendships that help our orphans heal. Learn more about our Orphans' Project:

New best friends. 🐘💛 Rescued from the Maasai Mara at just days old last May, Kaikai has grown into a confident young elephant. This year, she welcomed a new companion: Bungalu. From sharing peaceful moments on the riverbank to sandy lounging sessions, these two are rarely far apart. Watching them spend time together is a beautiful reminder of the friendships that help our orphans heal. Learn more about our Orphans' Project:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

26,712 views • 15 days ago

Little Zuri was feeling bright and happy this morning! She was dusting away and wanted Keeper Peter to admire all her impressive trunk skills. Zuri's transformation from the terrified calf we rescued two months ago, in a harrowing, nighttime operation, is wonderful to behold. Trapped inside a septic tank, read about her rescue and support her journey with us through an adoption at

Little Zuri was feeling bright and happy this morning! She was dusting away and wanted Keeper Peter to admire all her impressive trunk skills. Zuri's transformation from the terrified calf we rescued two months ago, in a harrowing, nighttime operation, is wonderful to behold. Trapped inside a septic tank, read about her rescue and support her journey with us through an adoption at

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,636 views • 9 days ago

Rescued with a serious bullet wound, Serenget spent nearly 7 months on carefully managed bedrest. Today, she's out with the Voi herd and setting the pace. As Keeper Philip says: "Our big girls always wait patiently for little Serenget to finish her milk bottles... They walk as a family. No one is ever left behind." Serenget still drinks in her own unique way – milk is poured into her trunk before she funnels it into her mouth, patiently finishing every last drop. Read her story and consider adopting Serenget at:

Rescued with a serious bullet wound, Serenget spent nearly 7 months on carefully managed bedrest. Today, she's out with the Voi herd and setting the pace. As Keeper Philip says: "Our big girls always wait patiently for little Serenget to finish her milk bottles... They walk as a family. No one is ever left behind." Serenget still drinks in her own unique way – milk is poured into her trunk before she funnels it into her mouth, patiently finishing every last drop. Read her story and consider adopting Serenget at:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

22,780 views • 14 days ago