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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

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

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:

25,356 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.

29,634 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.

89,372 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:

92,270 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:

15,612 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:

16,700 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

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

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

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

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

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

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:

18,881 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

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

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."

29,773 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:

33,760 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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Wangalla never misses evening tea with the Keepers – and she even brings her own provisions! She pays her respects, grabs a bite, takes a seat and then carries on with her evening rounds. It all began when she was a neonate, after we realised she was far too restless to settle in her stable at dusk. Now, she has free run of the compound until bedtime – whenever she decides that might be! Discover Wangalla’s rescue story and support her care through an adoption:

Wangalla never misses evening tea with the Keepers – and she even brings her own provisions! She pays her respects, grabs a bite, takes a seat and then carries on with her evening rounds. It all began when she was a neonate, after we realised she was far too restless to settle in her stable at dusk. Now, she has free run of the compound until bedtime – whenever she decides that might be! Discover Wangalla’s rescue story and support her care through an adoption:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

28,538 views • 2 days ago

Twelve years ago, Ndotto arrived at our Nursery as the smallest elephant we had ever rescued – a premature newborn from the Ndoto Mountains, weighing barely 40kg and flown in wrapped in a blanket. Today, he is a wild-living bull. This dry season, Ndotto has been our most faithful visitor to the Voi stockades, where he reclaimed his place in the wild. He often waits quietly at the water trough for the Keepers to wake at dawn. On warm afternoons, he stretches out beside the stockades where he grew up, ears relaxed, his trunk reaching over to investigate the camera. To be able to give Ndotto a second chance when he needed it most, and then watch him flourish into a wild bull, is exactly what our Orphans’ Project is all about. Discover his story:

Twelve years ago, Ndotto arrived at our Nursery as the smallest elephant we had ever rescued – a premature newborn from the Ndoto Mountains, weighing barely 40kg and flown in wrapped in a blanket. Today, he is a wild-living bull. This dry season, Ndotto has been our most faithful visitor to the Voi stockades, where he reclaimed his place in the wild. He often waits quietly at the water trough for the Keepers to wake at dawn. On warm afternoons, he stretches out beside the stockades where he grew up, ears relaxed, his trunk reaching over to investigate the camera. To be able to give Ndotto a second chance when he needed it most, and then watch him flourish into a wild bull, is exactly what our Orphans’ Project is all about. Discover his story:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

16,418 views • 1 day ago

Looks like Kaikai has decided her mud bath is too small, and she’s found the tool to fix it! Rescued last May in the Maasai Mara, Kaikai was only days old when she lost her mother. Since then, she has grown into a beautifully bossy and delightfully spoiled little calf at Kaluku – the kind who supervises the daily milk-mixing from her own patch of yard, trunk shaking and ears flapping until her bottle is ready. Adopt Kaikai and support her ongoing care – and her mud bath making:

Looks like Kaikai has decided her mud bath is too small, and she’s found the tool to fix it! Rescued last May in the Maasai Mara, Kaikai was only days old when she lost her mother. Since then, she has grown into a beautifully bossy and delightfully spoiled little calf at Kaluku – the kind who supervises the daily milk-mixing from her own patch of yard, trunk shaking and ears flapping until her bottle is ready. Adopt Kaikai and support her ongoing care – and her mud bath making:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

14,781 views • 1 day ago

This is the impact of one life saved – a beautiful family of elephants, thriving in the wild. We rescued Nasalot 25 years ago after ivory poachers killed her mother. She became one of the founding orphans at Ithumba and has since been a friend, mentor, matriarch and mother to so many. Today, she leads an ex-orphan herd and has three babies of her own – Nusu, Noah and Nala. Nasalot’s story is possible because of supporters like you. ❤️

This is the impact of one life saved – a beautiful family of elephants, thriving in the wild. We rescued Nasalot 25 years ago after ivory poachers killed her mother. She became one of the founding orphans at Ithumba and has since been a friend, mentor, matriarch and mother to so many. Today, she leads an ex-orphan herd and has three babies of her own – Nusu, Noah and Nala. Nasalot’s story is possible because of supporters like you. ❤️

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,569 views • 3 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

“Cheeky.” If you ask any of our Voi Keepers how they would describe Kilulu, that’s the word you’ll hear! He just can’t help himself – as the other orphans head into the bush for their next browsing session, Kilulu sees an opportunity to showboat and cannot walk away from it. We adore him and his antics. During the 2022 drought, we rescued so many orphans from desperate situations. It’s been a joy to see their personalities grow ever since. Kilulu, who was weak, emaciated and resigned to his fate when we found him, has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations. Supporters like you ensure we are always in a position to give orphans like Kilulu a second chance at a wild future. To learn more about Kilulu, visit:

“Cheeky.” If you ask any of our Voi Keepers how they would describe Kilulu, that’s the word you’ll hear! He just can’t help himself – as the other orphans head into the bush for their next browsing session, Kilulu sees an opportunity to showboat and cannot walk away from it. We adore him and his antics. During the 2022 drought, we rescued so many orphans from desperate situations. It’s been a joy to see their personalities grow ever since. Kilulu, who was weak, emaciated and resigned to his fate when we found him, has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations. Supporters like you ensure we are always in a position to give orphans like Kilulu a second chance at a wild future. To learn more about Kilulu, visit:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

13,577 views • 3 days ago

Murera is enjoying some ‘me time’ as we count down the final stretch of her pregnancy. Her Umani family is keeping an especially close eye on her. Yesterday, when Faraja arrived with two wild bulls in tow, Murera was unsettled by their presence. Lima Lima and Sonje quickly noticed and sprang into action. They gathered the orphans and led everyone home, with Murera safely bringing up the rear. Back to bed a little earlier than usual, but when you’re looking after a friend, you make an executive decision! Read more about the remarkable Umani family in the latest Keepers’ Diaries:

Murera is enjoying some ‘me time’ as we count down the final stretch of her pregnancy. Her Umani family is keeping an especially close eye on her. Yesterday, when Faraja arrived with two wild bulls in tow, Murera was unsettled by their presence. Lima Lima and Sonje quickly noticed and sprang into action. They gathered the orphans and led everyone home, with Murera safely bringing up the rear. Back to bed a little earlier than usual, but when you’re looking after a friend, you make an executive decision! Read more about the remarkable Umani family in the latest Keepers’ Diaries:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

15,653 views • 4 days ago

Lovely chaos at the Nursery! 🐘 Mzinga and Taroha go head-to-head as Olomunyak, Talek and Wamata get in on the action behind. Before long, playful Talek has merged the two scenes into one lively sparring match! It’s all in good fun – young elephants spar with their peers as they play and establish their place within the herd. Every elephant here is an orphan, with a unique rescue story that started with loss. Now, they have a family with us and a wild future ahead. Follow their journey through an adoption:

Lovely chaos at the Nursery! 🐘 Mzinga and Taroha go head-to-head as Olomunyak, Talek and Wamata get in on the action behind. Before long, playful Talek has merged the two scenes into one lively sparring match! It’s all in good fun – young elephants spar with their peers as they play and establish their place within the herd. Every elephant here is an orphan, with a unique rescue story that started with loss. Now, they have a family with us and a wild future ahead. Follow their journey through an adoption:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

14,492 views • 4 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

Wangalla would like some tea, please! Really, she just wants to be as close to Keeper Misheck as possible. Misheck joined the Trust three decades ago and has a remarkable way with elephants. Orphans adore him, and Wangalla is no exception. Since her rescue last November, he has spent nearly every minute of every day by her side. His dedication has been vital to her survival. For a neonate orphan, every day is precarious, and Wangalla was a particularly hard-won case. Discover Wangalla’s story and support her round-the-clock care through an adoption:

Wangalla would like some tea, please! Really, she just wants to be as close to Keeper Misheck as possible. Misheck joined the Trust three decades ago and has a remarkable way with elephants. Orphans adore him, and Wangalla is no exception. Since her rescue last November, he has spent nearly every minute of every day by her side. His dedication has been vital to her survival. For a neonate orphan, every day is precarious, and Wangalla was a particularly hard-won case. Discover Wangalla’s story and support her round-the-clock care through an adoption:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

20,663 views • 7 days ago

An elephant’s trunk ends in two remarkably dexterous 'fingers', precise enough to pluck a single blade of grass. Olomunyak, one of the friendliest members of the Nairobi Nursery herd, has found a rather more entertaining use for his: splashing, swirling and blowing bubbles in the water trough outside his stockade. Long after the other orphans had settled into eating their night's supply of freshly cut greens, he was still at it. Proof that little ones love to play, whatever the species. Meet Olomunyak:

An elephant’s trunk ends in two remarkably dexterous 'fingers', precise enough to pluck a single blade of grass. Olomunyak, one of the friendliest members of the Nairobi Nursery herd, has found a rather more entertaining use for his: splashing, swirling and blowing bubbles in the water trough outside his stockade. Long after the other orphans had settled into eating their night's supply of freshly cut greens, he was still at it. Proof that little ones love to play, whatever the species. Meet Olomunyak:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

25,738 views • 10 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!

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

A wire can be lethal. Join Benjamin and our SWT/KWS Ithumba Anti-Poaching Team as they track poachers and remove snares set for bushmeat – traps that can kill anything from a dik-dik to an elephant. Last year, our teams confiscated 13,978 snares. Read more about this lifesaving work:

A wire can be lethal. Join Benjamin and our SWT/KWS Ithumba Anti-Poaching Team as they track poachers and remove snares set for bushmeat – traps that can kill anything from a dik-dik to an elephant. Last year, our teams confiscated 13,978 snares. Read more about this lifesaving work:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

15,078 views • 7 days ago

Olomunyak has taken on a new role: the Nursery’s self-appointed baboon chaser. The most playful boy in the herd never turns down a game or a challenge. He will happily take on Taroha and Pardamat at once in a wrestling match, so a troop of baboons is simply too good an opportunity to pass up. Rescued from human-wildlife conflict in 2024, his biggest worry these days is deciding who to chase next. Adopt Olomunyak and become part of his journey:

Olomunyak has taken on a new role: the Nursery’s self-appointed baboon chaser. The most playful boy in the herd never turns down a game or a challenge. He will happily take on Taroha and Pardamat at once in a wrestling match, so a troop of baboons is simply too good an opportunity to pass up. Rescued from human-wildlife conflict in 2024, his biggest worry these days is deciding who to chase next. Adopt Olomunyak and become part of his journey:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,115 views • 8 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 • 9 months ago

Moon is the 93rd known wild-born calf of our Orphans’ Project. Born to ex-orphan Melia, rescued as a yearling in 2009, Moon is now part of the next generation living wild. This is the long arc of our work – rescue, years of care, reintegration, and a generation born free. Each wild-born calf represents years of consistent work, made possible by sustained support. By setting up a regular gift, you will help us be there for the next rescue, the next wild birth and the orphans growing up now:

Moon is the 93rd known wild-born calf of our Orphans’ Project. Born to ex-orphan Melia, rescued as a yearling in 2009, Moon is now part of the next generation living wild. This is the long arc of our work – rescue, years of care, reintegration, and a generation born free. Each wild-born calf represents years of consistent work, made possible by sustained support. By setting up a regular gift, you will help us be there for the next rescue, the next wild birth and the orphans growing up now:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

11,910 views • 6 days 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

18,438 views • 12 days ago

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

17,011 views • 11 days ago

Love isn't all about roses or grand gestures. At our Nursery in Kenya, it looks like a Keeper dragging a mattress onto the lawn so a sleepy (yet playful!) orphaned infant elephant can enjoy a rest. With over 300 orphans successfully raised to date, discover how we raise orphans with love (and lots of milk) so they can return to the wild:

Love isn't all about roses or grand gestures. At our Nursery in Kenya, it looks like a Keeper dragging a mattress onto the lawn so a sleepy (yet playful!) orphaned infant elephant can enjoy a rest. With over 300 orphans successfully raised to date, discover how we raise orphans with love (and lots of milk) so they can return to the wild:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

129,461 views • 4 months ago

Taroha is four years old and has already taken up the mantle of protector of the herd. It's exhausting work: when Daba tried to push Kipekee for no reason, Taroha stepped in. When Olomunyak tried the same trick with Alia, Taroha came to the rescue again. So when we found him completely horizontal on the banks of a little pool with his trunk in the water, we knew he'd earned the break. An orphan, Taroha arrived via a JCB bucket and a flight from Tsavo West. He had a difficult start and a best friend named Mokogodo who helped him through it. Become part of his family too:

Taroha is four years old and has already taken up the mantle of protector of the herd. It's exhausting work: when Daba tried to push Kipekee for no reason, Taroha stepped in. When Olomunyak tried the same trick with Alia, Taroha came to the rescue again. So when we found him completely horizontal on the banks of a little pool with his trunk in the water, we knew he'd earned the break. An orphan, Taroha arrived via a JCB bucket and a flight from Tsavo West. He had a difficult start and a best friend named Mokogodo who helped him through it. Become part of his family too:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

124,548 views • 4 months ago