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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.

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The only thing sweeter than a baby elephant? A baby elephant sleeping soundly beneath mum! This was the sight that greeted our Ithumba Keepers yesterday morning. Ex-orphan Chaimu was waiting outside the stockades, with tiny Comet slumbering between her feet. Many of us circle home for life’s milestones, and Chaimu is no different. She has long since reclaimed her place in the wild, but right after giving birth on Friday, she shepherded her newborn back ‘home’ to Ithumba, so she could introduce her daughter to the people who raised her. In the days since, mum and baby have remained close, leaning on the support of their human-elephant family. Read Comet’s birth announcement:

The only thing sweeter than a baby elephant? A baby elephant sleeping soundly beneath mum! This was the sight that greeted our Ithumba Keepers yesterday morning. Ex-orphan Chaimu was waiting outside the stockades, with tiny Comet slumbering between her feet. Many of us circle home for life’s milestones, and Chaimu is no different. She has long since reclaimed her place in the wild, but right after giving birth on Friday, she shepherded her newborn back ‘home’ to Ithumba, so she could introduce her daughter to the people who raised her. In the days since, mum and baby have remained close, leaning on the support of their human-elephant family. Read Comet’s birth announcement:

27,114 views

“These wild elephants know my face and recognise me as a friend. I respect them and they respect me.” – Keeper Stephen, Ithumba Reintegration Unit Our Reintegration Units are where orphaned elephants take their first steps towards life in the wild. Here, they gradually build confidence and independence, mingling with wild herds in the heart of the Tsavo ecosystem. Our Keepers guide them every step of the way, providing reassurance as they make this transition. Over the years, the wild elephants have come to accept these familiar faces as honorary members of the herd – a special trust that is never taken for granted. Learn more about our rescue-to-rewilding process, which has successfully raised more than 300 orphaned elephants:

“These wild elephants know my face and recognise me as a friend. I respect them and they respect me.” – Keeper Stephen, Ithumba Reintegration Unit Our Reintegration Units are where orphaned elephants take their first steps towards life in the wild. Here, they gradually build confidence and independence, mingling with wild herds in the heart of the Tsavo ecosystem. Our Keepers guide them every step of the way, providing reassurance as they make this transition. Over the years, the wild elephants have come to accept these familiar faces as honorary members of the herd – a special trust that is never taken for granted. Learn more about our rescue-to-rewilding process, which has successfully raised more than 300 orphaned elephants:

20,957 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:

302,652 views

Bungalu has mastered the art of holding his milk bottle with his trunk! Kaikai, meanwhile, hasn’t quite got the hang of it yet – although we’re not entirely convinced she’s trying very hard. Why do the heavy lifting yourself when your Keepers are perfectly happy to do it for you? Bungalu and Kaikai were both rescued as orphans. If you’d like to get to know them a little better, meet them on our website – and, if they steal your heart, consider supporting them through an adoption:

Bungalu has mastered the art of holding his milk bottle with his trunk! Kaikai, meanwhile, hasn’t quite got the hang of it yet – although we’re not entirely convinced she’s trying very hard. Why do the heavy lifting yourself when your Keepers are perfectly happy to do it for you? Bungalu and Kaikai were both rescued as orphans. If you’d like to get to know them a little better, meet them on our website – and, if they steal your heart, consider supporting them through an adoption:

13,491 views

En route to their stables, the orphans encountered a tall, mysterious stranger. Most of them breezed past – the Nursery sits in the heart of Nairobi National Park, so they share their home with all kinds of wild animals – but a few took umbrage at her presence. Nyambeni tried to banish the stranger with bluster, flaring her ears and pacing irritably. Needless to say, the giraffe remained long after Nyambeni had given up and gone to bed, browsing at her leisure – as is her right! Nyambeni are one of the youngest orphans our care. Discover her rescue story and help us provide the round-the-clock care and wild futures rescued orphans need:

En route to their stables, the orphans encountered a tall, mysterious stranger. Most of them breezed past – the Nursery sits in the heart of Nairobi National Park, so they share their home with all kinds of wild animals – but a few took umbrage at her presence. Nyambeni tried to banish the stranger with bluster, flaring her ears and pacing irritably. Needless to say, the giraffe remained long after Nyambeni had given up and gone to bed, browsing at her leisure – as is her right! Nyambeni are one of the youngest orphans our care. Discover her rescue story and help us provide the round-the-clock care and wild futures rescued orphans need:

15,879 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.

89,373 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:

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:

92,279 views

Bungalu has an adorable little habit: when drinking his bottle, he delicately grasps the handle with his two fingers. He’s not strong enough to hold the whole bottle yet, but he’s determined to pull his weight! Those two prehensile ‘fingers’ at the tip of an African elephant’s trunk give him the dexterity to pick up everything from a tiny pebble to a thin blade of grass – or, in Bungalu’s case, a milk bottle handle. Before his rescue, Bungalu spent several lonely weeks fending for himself. This tiny, milk-dependent calf even survived a lion attack and earth-shaking storms. Now, he’ll never be alone again. With Kaikai by his side and Keepers like Jonas there day and night, Bungalu is learning how to grow from orphan to wild elephant. Read his rescue story and support his journey:

Bungalu has an adorable little habit: when drinking his bottle, he delicately grasps the handle with his two fingers. He’s not strong enough to hold the whole bottle yet, but he’s determined to pull his weight! Those two prehensile ‘fingers’ at the tip of an African elephant’s trunk give him the dexterity to pick up everything from a tiny pebble to a thin blade of grass – or, in Bungalu’s case, a milk bottle handle. Before his rescue, Bungalu spent several lonely weeks fending for himself. This tiny, milk-dependent calf even survived a lion attack and earth-shaking storms. Now, he’ll never be alone again. With Kaikai by his side and Keepers like Jonas there day and night, Bungalu is learning how to grow from orphan to wild elephant. Read his rescue story and support his journey:

17,408 views

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.

29,865 views

Four years ago today, Korbessa arrived at our Kaluku Neonate Nursery. She was just days old, rescued after falling into a well in Meru National Park. She was the smallest orphan in the Kaluku herd, but soon took charge of the group, starting with her sidekick, Toto. Four years on, this little girl, affectionately known as “Little Frog” for the position she adopts when lying down, runs a tighter ship than ever. The rest of us just do what she wants! Meet Korbessa:

Four years ago today, Korbessa arrived at our Kaluku Neonate Nursery. She was just days old, rescued after falling into a well in Meru National Park. She was the smallest orphan in the Kaluku herd, but soon took charge of the group, starting with her sidekick, Toto. Four years on, this little girl, affectionately known as “Little Frog” for the position she adopts when lying down, runs a tighter ship than ever. The rest of us just do what she wants! Meet Korbessa:

25,969 views

Kerrio has two jobs at Umani Springs. As Murera’s trusted deputy, she is the one who steps in when little Mwana pushes her luck – and once order is restored, she is just as likely to be found playing with her. The two go back to Kerrio’s very first day at Umani. When she stepped off the truck from Nairobi last December, Mwana was there to greet her, playing with her from the moment she arrived. Since then, their friendship has only grown. Kerrio’s story is one of many unfolding at Umani Springs, where rescued orphans are given the care, companionship and protection they need as they prepare for life in the wild. By adopting Kerrio, you can follow her journey and help support her along the way. Adopt Kerrio:

Kerrio has two jobs at Umani Springs. As Murera’s trusted deputy, she is the one who steps in when little Mwana pushes her luck – and once order is restored, she is just as likely to be found playing with her. The two go back to Kerrio’s very first day at Umani. When she stepped off the truck from Nairobi last December, Mwana was there to greet her, playing with her from the moment she arrived. Since then, their friendship has only grown. Kerrio’s story is one of many unfolding at Umani Springs, where rescued orphans are given the care, companionship and protection they need as they prepare for life in the wild. By adopting Kerrio, you can follow her journey and help support her along the way. Adopt Kerrio:

13,006 views

We had a surprising leader of the dawn patrol this morning. Usually, the ex-orphans are led by one of the ex-orphan matriarchs – but today, it was a big wild bull, with plenty of swagger to spare. He knew the routine and was eager to take charge! Every elephant seen here is living wild in Tsavo East, Kenya’s largest national park. The bull is totally wild; the females are ex-orphans, rescued and raised through our Orphans’ Project, along with their offspring. They pop by our Ithumba stockades for the fresh drinking water we provide – a lifeline during the dry season. Learn more about how we rescue, raise and rewild orphaned elephants:

We had a surprising leader of the dawn patrol this morning. Usually, the ex-orphans are led by one of the ex-orphan matriarchs – but today, it was a big wild bull, with plenty of swagger to spare. He knew the routine and was eager to take charge! Every elephant seen here is living wild in Tsavo East, Kenya’s largest national park. The bull is totally wild; the females are ex-orphans, rescued and raised through our Orphans’ Project, along with their offspring. They pop by our Ithumba stockades for the fresh drinking water we provide – a lifeline during the dry season. Learn more about how we rescue, raise and rewild orphaned elephants:

15,002 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.

39,108 views

Territorial fights are a normal part of rhino life – but rarely does one end with a combatant wandering down a busy road! After bursting through the fence, this huge male found himself stranded outside Solio Rhino Sanctuary. Our SWT/KWS Mount Kenya Mobile Vet Unit raced to the scene, where they worked with the Solio Conservancy team to dart him, guide him into a crate and safely return him home. Another wild life protected, thanks to our Mobile Vet Units and the Kenya Wildlife Service. Learn more about their vital work:

Territorial fights are a normal part of rhino life – but rarely does one end with a combatant wandering down a busy road! After bursting through the fence, this huge male found himself stranded outside Solio Rhino Sanctuary. Our SWT/KWS Mount Kenya Mobile Vet Unit raced to the scene, where they worked with the Solio Conservancy team to dart him, guide him into a crate and safely return him home. Another wild life protected, thanks to our Mobile Vet Units and the Kenya Wildlife Service. Learn more about their vital work:

16,483 views

With your support, our teams are patrolling every day — on foot and by air — to help ensure elephants like this aspiring tusker are protected and have a safe home in which to roam. Donate at:

With your support, our teams are patrolling every day — on foot and by air — to help ensure elephants like this aspiring tusker are protected and have a safe home in which to roam. Donate at:

10,387 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:

25,048 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://

24,854 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:

26,199 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:

33,760 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:

22,492 views

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New baby announcement! At dawn today, ex-orphan Chaimu returned to our Ithumba stockades with a beautiful surprise – her newborn daughter. We were delighted that she chose to share this special moment with the Keepers who helped raise her. Named Comet, she is the 95th known calf born to an orphan rescued, raised and rewilded through our Orphans’ Project. Each new arrival is a wonderful reminder of what your support makes possible: not just saving individual lives, but giving rise to new generations of wild elephants. Read Chaimu and Comet’s story:
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New baby announcement! At dawn today, ex-orphan Chaimu returned to our Ithumba stockades with a beautiful surprise – her newborn daughter. We were delighted that she chose to share this special moment with the Keepers who helped raise her. Named Comet, she is the 95th known calf born to an orphan rescued, raised and rewilded through our Orphans’ Project. Each new arrival is a wonderful reminder of what your support makes possible: not just saving individual lives, but giving rise to new generations of wild elephants. Read Chaimu and Comet’s story:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

85,972 views • 5 days ago

Notty the zebra never misses a chance to join the elephants – and this time, she’s found a willing playmate in Alia! That’s quite a turnaround. When Alia is looking after one of the younger elephants, she takes her nanny duties very seriously. Just last month, the Keepers watched her block Notty’s path and send the persistent zebra straight back towards her best friend Tytan, a black rhino. It’s quite an eclectic herd! But there are no nanny duties today – and no blocked paths in sight! With Alia in a more playful mood, Notty has seized her chance for some elephant-sized fun. Follow the Nursery’s daily antics in the Keepers’ Diaries:
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Notty the zebra never misses a chance to join the elephants – and this time, she’s found a willing playmate in Alia! That’s quite a turnaround. When Alia is looking after one of the younger elephants, she takes her nanny duties very seriously. Just last month, the Keepers watched her block Notty’s path and send the persistent zebra straight back towards her best friend Tytan, a black rhino. It’s quite an eclectic herd! But there are no nanny duties today – and no blocked paths in sight! With Alia in a more playful mood, Notty has seized her chance for some elephant-sized fun. Follow the Nursery’s daily antics in the Keepers’ Diaries:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

14,564 views • 1 day ago

Ndotto is as polite and gentle as ever – but now that he’s living wild and a wise old 12, he seems to think he’s earned a few senior privileges! One of those privileges is apparently unfettered access to lucerne. He arrived at the mud bath at 11am, knowing the dependent orphans’ schedule by heart, and planted himself beside the truck. After some careful negotiations with Head Keeper Joseph, Ndotto was given his own bale a little way off so the Keepers could distribute the milk bottles. But seniority didn’t last long! Mushuru, Sileita and Hildana soon spotted his private feast and invited themselves along. Ndotto was one of the tiniest orphans we’ve ever rescued. Thanks to your support, he was given a family, a second chance and the opportunity to one day live wild. Learn more about this special bull:
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Ndotto is as polite and gentle as ever – but now that he’s living wild and a wise old 12, he seems to think he’s earned a few senior privileges! One of those privileges is apparently unfettered access to lucerne. He arrived at the mud bath at 11am, knowing the dependent orphans’ schedule by heart, and planted himself beside the truck. After some careful negotiations with Head Keeper Joseph, Ndotto was given his own bale a little way off so the Keepers could distribute the milk bottles. But seniority didn’t last long! Mushuru, Sileita and Hildana soon spotted his private feast and invited themselves along. Ndotto was one of the tiniest orphans we’ve ever rescued. Thanks to your support, he was given a family, a second chance and the opportunity to one day live wild. Learn more about this special bull:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

13,753 views • 1 day ago

Pardamat finally has two tiny tusks! While most elephants start growing tusks around the age of two, Pardamat's are only appearing now, at the age of four. His partner-in-crime, Olomunyak, was an early bloomer, and his small-but-substantial tusks have given him plenty of confidence to take on his older friend! Now both boys are proudly sporting their tusks, and playtime has taken on a whole new tempo. Can you guess who’s who? Pardamat and Olomunyak are orphans who lost their mothers to human-wildlife conflict and endured difficult starts to life. Now, they’re growing up in our care, with the ultimate goal of a fully wild life when grown. Discover their stories and support their journeys:
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Pardamat finally has two tiny tusks! While most elephants start growing tusks around the age of two, Pardamat's are only appearing now, at the age of four. His partner-in-crime, Olomunyak, was an early bloomer, and his small-but-substantial tusks have given him plenty of confidence to take on his older friend! Now both boys are proudly sporting their tusks, and playtime has taken on a whole new tempo. Can you guess who’s who? Pardamat and Olomunyak are orphans who lost their mothers to human-wildlife conflict and endured difficult starts to life. Now, they’re growing up in our care, with the ultimate goal of a fully wild life when grown. Discover their stories and support their journeys:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

13,974 views • 2 days ago

With the rains yet to arrive, Kaikai has decided to make her own showers! As water flows from a topped-up tank, Kaikai positions herself right underneath, happily creating her own rainfall and splashing about in the puddle below. Bungula, true to character, prefers a more sedate approach, quietly dipping the tip of his trunk into the run-off for a refreshing drink. Both are orphaned elephants in our care. With your support, we're providing for their daily needs, helping them grow strong so that, one day when they are ready, they can reclaim their place in the wild. Adopt Kaikai or Bungula and be part of their journey:
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With the rains yet to arrive, Kaikai has decided to make her own showers! As water flows from a topped-up tank, Kaikai positions herself right underneath, happily creating her own rainfall and splashing about in the puddle below. Bungula, true to character, prefers a more sedate approach, quietly dipping the tip of his trunk into the run-off for a refreshing drink. Both are orphaned elephants in our care. With your support, we're providing for their daily needs, helping them grow strong so that, one day when they are ready, they can reclaim their place in the wild. Adopt Kaikai or Bungula and be part of their journey:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

20,945 views • 4 days ago

One year ago today, Daba’s life changed forever. Spotted alone by our SWT/KWS Canine Unit during a training exercise, the tiny calf was tracked for hours in the hope he would find his family. But no other elephants appeared, and it became clear that this little orphan needed help. A year on, shy little Daba has blossomed into a confident, calm and increasingly mischievous young elephant. What a difference a year makes! His journey is only beginning. Support Daba’s care and his future in the wild through an adoption:
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One year ago today, Daba’s life changed forever. Spotted alone by our SWT/KWS Canine Unit during a training exercise, the tiny calf was tracked for hours in the hope he would find his family. But no other elephants appeared, and it became clear that this little orphan needed help. A year on, shy little Daba has blossomed into a confident, calm and increasingly mischievous young elephant. What a difference a year makes! His journey is only beginning. Support Daba’s care and his future in the wild through an adoption:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

29,431 views • 7 days ago

Bela's happy place? On the trail of a good scent! 🐕 Whenever she sees the helicopter, her tail starts wagging – she knows she's in for a day of action. On this patrol, Bela and her handler, Semeli, accompanied by an armed KWS ranger, searched the Tsavo Triangle for signs of illegal activity. Bela is part of our SWT/KWS Canine Unit, whose highly trained dogs support anti-poaching operations in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service. With noses second to none, these remarkable dogs can follow a scent for miles – and have even tracked poachers right to their front doors! Learn more about Bela and our Canine Unit:
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Bela's happy place? On the trail of a good scent! 🐕 Whenever she sees the helicopter, her tail starts wagging – she knows she's in for a day of action. On this patrol, Bela and her handler, Semeli, accompanied by an armed KWS ranger, searched the Tsavo Triangle for signs of illegal activity. Bela is part of our SWT/KWS Canine Unit, whose highly trained dogs support anti-poaching operations in partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service. With noses second to none, these remarkable dogs can follow a scent for miles – and have even tracked poachers right to their front doors! Learn more about Bela and our Canine Unit:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

12,016 views • 3 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:
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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 • 9 months ago

Big changes are coming to Umani Springs: Mwana is about to become a big sister for the very first time! Her mother, matriarch Murera, is heavily pregnant, and the signs suggest the new arrival could be very close. The Keepers have even noted Quanza keeping a watchful eye on Murera, seemingly acting as her little messenger. Want to be among the first to hear about the new arrival? Adopt Murera, soon to be a mum of two, and follow her family's story:
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Big changes are coming to Umani Springs: Mwana is about to become a big sister for the very first time! Her mother, matriarch Murera, is heavily pregnant, and the signs suggest the new arrival could be very close. The Keepers have even noted Quanza keeping a watchful eye on Murera, seemingly acting as her little messenger. Want to be among the first to hear about the new arrival? Adopt Murera, soon to be a mum of two, and follow her family's story:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

14,028 views • 5 days ago

Arthi is trying his best to impress, but a rhino and a zebra are a tough crowd! 🐘🦏🦓 When he spotted Tytan and Notty strolling by, he couldn’t resist a little bellow and bluster. His audience remained completely unimpressed, so Arthi soon took the drama back to his friends! Three different species, one thing in common – they’re all orphaned animals growing up in our care until they’re ready to join their own kind in the wild. Meet the orphans and support their journeys:
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Arthi is trying his best to impress, but a rhino and a zebra are a tough crowd! 🐘🦏🦓 When he spotted Tytan and Notty strolling by, he couldn’t resist a little bellow and bluster. His audience remained completely unimpressed, so Arthi soon took the drama back to his friends! Three different species, one thing in common – they’re all orphaned animals growing up in our care until they’re ready to join their own kind in the wild. Meet the orphans and support their journeys:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

18,946 views • 8 days 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!
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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

416,445 views • 8 months ago

Kenya is rewriting its rhino story – and every orphan we rescue helps write the next chapter. 🦏 We’ve successfully hand-raised 20 orphaned black rhinos, with many going on to raise their own offspring in the wild. Today, four remain in our care: Maxwell, Apollo, Chamboi and little Tytan. This #WorldRhinoDay, help give the next generation a future in the wild:
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Kenya is rewriting its rhino story – and every orphan we rescue helps write the next chapter. 🦏 We’ve successfully hand-raised 20 orphaned black rhinos, with many going on to raise their own offspring in the wild. Today, four remain in our care: Maxwell, Apollo, Chamboi and little Tytan. This #WorldRhinoDay, help give the next generation a future in the wild:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

31,986 views • 15 days ago

Big and little babies making the most of a welcome splash! 💦🐘 We're still waiting for the rains in the Kibwezi Forest, where temperatures are soaring. For our ex-orphans and wild elephants, as well as the many buffaloes that call this place home, water points are an important lifeline during the dry season. With our fleet of water bowsers and dozens of boreholes, we're working hard to keep Tsavo's wildlife hydrated until the rains arrive. More about Water for Wildlife:
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Big and little babies making the most of a welcome splash! 💦🐘 We're still waiting for the rains in the Kibwezi Forest, where temperatures are soaring. For our ex-orphans and wild elephants, as well as the many buffaloes that call this place home, water points are an important lifeline during the dry season. With our fleet of water bowsers and dozens of boreholes, we're working hard to keep Tsavo's wildlife hydrated until the rains arrive. More about Water for Wildlife:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

13,490 views • 6 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: )
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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 • 10 months ago

A wildebeest had been caught in a wire snare. In her attempts to break free, she snapped the log anchoring it, but the snare remained intact, leaving her dragging the broken log behind her. Nasaru Olosho Conservancy scouts tracked her for two days, with aerial support from Roan, before the SWT/KWS Southern Mobile Vet Unit located her. Dr Lawi darted her, removed the snare and treated her injury. She is expected to make a full recovery. Alongside our 30 SWT/KWS Anti-Poaching Teams, we are proud to fund teams like the Nasaru Olosho Conservancy scouts. Thanks to their dogged pursuit, this wildebeest was spared a terrible fate. Learn more:
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A wildebeest had been caught in a wire snare. In her attempts to break free, she snapped the log anchoring it, but the snare remained intact, leaving her dragging the broken log behind her. Nasaru Olosho Conservancy scouts tracked her for two days, with aerial support from Roan, before the SWT/KWS Southern Mobile Vet Unit located her. Dr Lawi darted her, removed the snare and treated her injury. She is expected to make a full recovery. Alongside our 30 SWT/KWS Anti-Poaching Teams, we are proud to fund teams like the Nasaru Olosho Conservancy scouts. Thanks to their dogged pursuit, this wildebeest was spared a terrible fate. Learn more:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

12,768 views • 6 days ago

How it started for Richard → how it’s going! This little eland orphan was found alone and in a bad way by Big Life rangers. We gave him a quick lift to our Kaluku Unit, where he was ushered into the heart of an eclectic, loving family. Today, Richard fits right in with the buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and elephants who call Kaluku home. Like all the orphans in our care, he will rejoin his kind in the wild, when he is grown and ready. Find out how we rescue orphaned wildlife like Richard and protect the habitats they call home:
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How it started for Richard → how it’s going! This little eland orphan was found alone and in a bad way by Big Life rangers. We gave him a quick lift to our Kaluku Unit, where he was ushered into the heart of an eclectic, loving family. Today, Richard fits right in with the buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and elephants who call Kaluku home. Like all the orphans in our care, he will rejoin his kind in the wild, when he is grown and ready. Find out how we rescue orphaned wildlife like Richard and protect the habitats they call home:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

20,994 views • 12 days ago

A special visitor at Voi – little Aura, with Mum Arruba, and wild-born Mwitu taking a keen interest in the new arrival. Mwitu knows a thing or two about babysitting. She watches over her own little sibling, Mica, so protectively that she’s even been known to push would-be nannies away! Aura arrived in January to a guard of honour from ex-orphans Mbegu, Tagwa, Pika Pika, Mudanda, and Ndotto. Arruba has been bringing her daughter to visit ever since. Meet all the known wild-born babies of our ex-orphans:
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A special visitor at Voi – little Aura, with Mum Arruba, and wild-born Mwitu taking a keen interest in the new arrival. Mwitu knows a thing or two about babysitting. She watches over her own little sibling, Mica, so protectively that she’s even been known to push would-be nannies away! Aura arrived in January to a guard of honour from ex-orphans Mbegu, Tagwa, Pika Pika, Mudanda, and Ndotto. Arruba has been bringing her daughter to visit ever since. Meet all the known wild-born babies of our ex-orphans:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,392 views • 11 days ago

Not so long ago, Kenya was teeming with black rhinos. That all changed when global demand for their horn fuelled a catastrophic wave of poaching, which destroyed 98% of the population. The once-ubiquitous symbols of Kenya’s wilderness had been nearly poached to extinction. Today, Kenya’s black rhinos are the face of a remarkable comeback story. Despite devastating losses, populations are steadily climbing back from the brink. We are proud to play a role in that comeback story. Working with the Kenya Wildlife Service and field partners, we support black rhino recovery through aerial operations, anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, orphan rescues, and long-term conservation initiatives. Read more about our rhino conservation work:
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Not so long ago, Kenya was teeming with black rhinos. That all changed when global demand for their horn fuelled a catastrophic wave of poaching, which destroyed 98% of the population. The once-ubiquitous symbols of Kenya’s wilderness had been nearly poached to extinction. Today, Kenya’s black rhinos are the face of a remarkable comeback story. Despite devastating losses, populations are steadily climbing back from the brink. We are proud to play a role in that comeback story. Working with the Kenya Wildlife Service and field partners, we support black rhino recovery through aerial operations, anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, orphan rescues, and long-term conservation initiatives. Read more about our rhino conservation work:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

19,470 views • 14 days ago

The stately walk of a matriarch with age, wisdom, and authority on her side. Yatta was just a newborn when poachers killed her mother. When we rescued her in 1999, we had no inkling of the formidable matriarch she would become — we only knew that she was a terribly frightened, vulnerable calf who needed our help. For the better part of a decade, our Keepers slept beside her, hand-fed her bottles of milk, and helped her blossom into the leader she is today. Fast forward nearly 27 years, and Yatta is now living wild, a matriarch, a mother of four, and a grandmother of two. Although she is raising her own family in the wilds of Tsavo, she still pops by regularly to say hello. This was a recent visit, where she and her kids and grandkids linked up with the dependent herd for mud bath. Yatta represents the success of our Orphans’ Project — saving one life and paving the way for entire generations in the process. Discover her inspiring story:
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The stately walk of a matriarch with age, wisdom, and authority on her side. Yatta was just a newborn when poachers killed her mother. When we rescued her in 1999, we had no inkling of the formidable matriarch she would become — we only knew that she was a terribly frightened, vulnerable calf who needed our help. For the better part of a decade, our Keepers slept beside her, hand-fed her bottles of milk, and helped her blossom into the leader she is today. Fast forward nearly 27 years, and Yatta is now living wild, a matriarch, a mother of four, and a grandmother of two. Although she is raising her own family in the wilds of Tsavo, she still pops by regularly to say hello. This was a recent visit, where she and her kids and grandkids linked up with the dependent herd for mud bath. Yatta represents the success of our Orphans’ Project — saving one life and paving the way for entire generations in the process. Discover her inspiring story:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

16,693 views • 14 days ago