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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:

28,803 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:

302,940 views

What started with two elephants has blossomed into a herd. Murera and Sonje both had poacher-inflicted injuries that required a different approach to rewilding – and so our Umani Springs reintegration unit was built. Today, eighteen elephants have taken the next steps towards the wild from here. Some have reintegrated so successfully that they’ve gone on to start their own families in the wild. In the coming weeks, we also expect our OG Umani orphan, Murera, to give birth to her third calf. Exciting times ahead for our Umani herd! Meet the orphans:

What started with two elephants has blossomed into a herd. Murera and Sonje both had poacher-inflicted injuries that required a different approach to rewilding – and so our Umani Springs reintegration unit was built. Today, eighteen elephants have taken the next steps towards the wild from here. Some have reintegrated so successfully that they’ve gone on to start their own families in the wild. In the coming weeks, we also expect our OG Umani orphan, Murera, to give birth to her third calf. Exciting times ahead for our Umani herd! Meet the orphans:

12,942 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:

21,377 views

Kanika has never needed rescuing – and that’s the whole story. 🐘 Born wild to ex-orphan Kilabasi, who was once an orphan in our care and now roams free in Tsavo, Kanika knows Ithumba only as a place to visit. She and her mother have been frequent visitors of late, joining the dependent orphans for their lucerne breakfast supplements and at the midday mud bath. Kanika is one of 95 known calves born to elephants we have rescued, raised and rewilded – each one a testament to what can happen when an orphan is provided specialist care and a sense of family. Meet them all:

Kanika has never needed rescuing – and that’s the whole story. 🐘 Born wild to ex-orphan Kilabasi, who was once an orphan in our care and now roams free in Tsavo, Kanika knows Ithumba only as a place to visit. She and her mother have been frequent visitors of late, joining the dependent orphans for their lucerne breakfast supplements and at the midday mud bath. Kanika is one of 95 known calves born to elephants we have rescued, raised and rewilded – each one a testament to what can happen when an orphan is provided specialist care and a sense of family. Meet them all:

14,622 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

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

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:

13,589 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.

29,871 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:

17,418 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

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

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

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

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

Mwinzi's got some swagger. After a night in his cosy (greens filled) stable, & a morning bottle of milk, he exits to find his entourage ready & waiting to accompany him out for the day! Meet the calf, who has almost everyone wrapped around his tiny trunk!

Mwinzi's got some swagger. After a night in his cosy (greens filled) stable, & a morning bottle of milk, he exits to find his entourage ready & waiting to accompany him out for the day! Meet the calf, who has almost everyone wrapped around his tiny trunk!

259,721 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

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

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

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The table is set, the guests have arrived, and dinner is served. Most evenings, Max hosts a party of pigs and assorted hangers-on. These wild warthogs have taken up residence around the Nairobi Nursery and come and go from Maxwell’s stockade as they please – sometimes with his blessing, other times much to his chagrin. Maxwell is a unique orphan: he is blind, due to a congenital eye condition. We rescued him as an infant back in 2007, after our Keepers found him lost and crying in the forest. Because a blind rhino would not be able to survive in the wild, Max has a forever home with us. Our ‘Nursery patriarch’ is a much-loved member of the family. To learn more about Max and support him through an adoption, visit:
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The table is set, the guests have arrived, and dinner is served. Most evenings, Max hosts a party of pigs and assorted hangers-on. These wild warthogs have taken up residence around the Nairobi Nursery and come and go from Maxwell’s stockade as they please – sometimes with his blessing, other times much to his chagrin. Maxwell is a unique orphan: he is blind, due to a congenital eye condition. We rescued him as an infant back in 2007, after our Keepers found him lost and crying in the forest. Because a blind rhino would not be able to survive in the wild, Max has a forever home with us. Our ‘Nursery patriarch’ is a much-loved member of the family. To learn more about Max and support him through an adoption, visit:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

16,315 views • 1 day ago

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:
0:29
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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

109,168 views • 15 days ago

Yesterday evening, the best kind of elephant rescue unfolded – one that ended with a little life saved and a wild family kept together. A young calf was found flailing inside a septic tank, trapped and unable to free herself. Keepers from our nearby Voi Reintegration Unit raced to the scene, alongside the SWT/KWS Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit. Together, they filled the tank with water, slowly floating her up to a level where she could be lifted onto solid ground. It was the moment her mother had been waiting for. The herd had remained in the area, panicky but clearly not yet giving up hope. The reunion at the end speaks for itself – sound up to hear the trumpets of joy! It isn’t always possible to reunite a trapped calf with her family. Often, by the time a calf is discovered, many hours have passed and the herd has been forced to move on. Whether it’s a rescue or a reunion, our team will be there, and we’ll make sure this tank is covered so it can’t happen again. Discover how donations are saving wild lives in the field every day:
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Yesterday evening, the best kind of elephant rescue unfolded – one that ended with a little life saved and a wild family kept together. A young calf was found flailing inside a septic tank, trapped and unable to free herself. Keepers from our nearby Voi Reintegration Unit raced to the scene, alongside the SWT/KWS Tsavo Mobile Vet Unit. Together, they filled the tank with water, slowly floating her up to a level where she could be lifted onto solid ground. It was the moment her mother had been waiting for. The herd had remained in the area, panicky but clearly not yet giving up hope. The reunion at the end speaks for itself – sound up to hear the trumpets of joy! It isn’t always possible to reunite a trapped calf with her family. Often, by the time a calf is discovered, many hours have passed and the herd has been forced to move on. Whether it’s a rescue or a reunion, our team will be there, and we’ll make sure this tank is covered so it can’t happen again. Discover how donations are saving wild lives in the field every day:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

23,779 views • 3 days ago

After eight months away roaming wild in Tsavo, baby Sia and her mum, ex-orphan Sagala, stopped by our Voi Reintegration Unit with their herd. Sia started a game of peekaboo and Keeper Walter, like the proud grandfather he is, obliged. Every baby elephant is precious but, to us, Sia is doubly so: she is the offspring of two orphans we rescued and reintegrated into the wild and one of 95 calves we know of thanks to our Orphans’ Project. Meet the rest:
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After eight months away roaming wild in Tsavo, baby Sia and her mum, ex-orphan Sagala, stopped by our Voi Reintegration Unit with their herd. Sia started a game of peekaboo and Keeper Walter, like the proud grandfather he is, obliged. Every baby elephant is precious but, to us, Sia is doubly so: she is the offspring of two orphans we rescued and reintegrated into the wild and one of 95 calves we know of thanks to our Orphans’ Project. Meet the rest:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

30,289 views • 5 days ago

If elephants had mug shots, this bull would have one. He was a repeat fence-breaker and his crop raiding activities put the people who live next to Tsavo West National Park in danger. It took helicopter pilots, crane truck operators, rangers and vets, working with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), to move him deep into the Tsavo ecosystem, a protected habitat where he can find food and water. Translocation is always a last resort, used when other efforts, such as aircraft or drones, haven’t worked. In a case like this, it can be the only way to prevent further conflict and possible loss of life. Your donations make operations like this possible. Thank you:
1:02
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If elephants had mug shots, this bull would have one. He was a repeat fence-breaker and his crop raiding activities put the people who live next to Tsavo West National Park in danger. It took helicopter pilots, crane truck operators, rangers and vets, working with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), to move him deep into the Tsavo ecosystem, a protected habitat where he can find food and water. Translocation is always a last resort, used when other efforts, such as aircraft or drones, haven’t worked. In a case like this, it can be the only way to prevent further conflict and possible loss of life. Your donations make operations like this possible. Thank you:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,257 views • 4 days ago

Is Wangalla nudging Keeper Misheck along because it’s nearly milk time, or just eager for a nuzzle? We’ll let you decide. It’s fair to say she is obsessed with her Keepers. When they gather for tea in the evening, she pops into her stable, grabs a branch or two to munch on while they have their chai, and bimbles around the terraces from one Keeper to the next until bedtime. The adoration cuts both ways. Misheck, for one, refused to leave her side for a full five months after she was rescued. Discover her story in full:
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Is Wangalla nudging Keeper Misheck along because it’s nearly milk time, or just eager for a nuzzle? We’ll let you decide. It’s fair to say she is obsessed with her Keepers. When they gather for tea in the evening, she pops into her stable, grabs a branch or two to munch on while they have their chai, and bimbles around the terraces from one Keeper to the next until bedtime. The adoration cuts both ways. Misheck, for one, refused to leave her side for a full five months after she was rescued. Discover her story in full:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

15,128 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:
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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

591,589 views • 10 months ago

Baby elephants don’t get much cuter than Comet. Born just last week, she is fresh from the womb but already walking around and doing what infant elephants are wont to do: sticking by Mum and figuring out how everything works. Her mum, Chaimu, is an orphan we raised and returned to the wild. She has a stellar support network around her to nurture Comet through her infancy – and, as doting grandparents, we can’t wait to watch this beautiful little girl grow up in the wilds of Tsavo. Read:
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Baby elephants don’t get much cuter than Comet. Born just last week, she is fresh from the womb but already walking around and doing what infant elephants are wont to do: sticking by Mum and figuring out how everything works. Her mum, Chaimu, is an orphan we raised and returned to the wild. She has a stellar support network around her to nurture Comet through her infancy – and, as doting grandparents, we can’t wait to watch this beautiful little girl grow up in the wilds of Tsavo. Read:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

18,959 views • 7 days ago

Wamata doesn’t let a fence stand between her and her own personal paradise. This was more graceful than some of the attempts we’ve seen at reaching tasty greens! She was found alone at just 12 months old, an age when she should have been glued to her mother’s side, and was skinny and withdrawn. With time, and the care of her Keepers and the other orphans, she has found her feet: these days she bush-bashes, plays chase with Notty the zebra and hoovers up her dinner. Find out more about Wamata’s backstory:
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Wamata doesn’t let a fence stand between her and her own personal paradise. This was more graceful than some of the attempts we’ve seen at reaching tasty greens! She was found alone at just 12 months old, an age when she should have been glued to her mother’s side, and was skinny and withdrawn. With time, and the care of her Keepers and the other orphans, she has found her feet: these days she bush-bashes, plays chase with Notty the zebra and hoovers up her dinner. Find out more about Wamata’s backstory:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

13,531 views • 5 days ago

Join Moon on a morning meander around the Ithumba stockades! Her mum, ex-orphan Melia, is just out of frame, confident that her daughter is safe to explore – and Moon is having a marvellous time to-ing and fro-ing among the wild elephants and ex-orphans who join our dependent herd for fresh water. Scenes like this unfold almost daily at Ithumba, thanks in no small part to our field teams, who keep the area safe and deliver the water. The dry season can be a hard time to live in this part of Tsavo, and the wild herds know where to find reliable support. Find out more about how we rescue orphaned elephants and help wild ones thrive:
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Join Moon on a morning meander around the Ithumba stockades! Her mum, ex-orphan Melia, is just out of frame, confident that her daughter is safe to explore – and Moon is having a marvellous time to-ing and fro-ing among the wild elephants and ex-orphans who join our dependent herd for fresh water. Scenes like this unfold almost daily at Ithumba, thanks in no small part to our field teams, who keep the area safe and deliver the water. The dry season can be a hard time to live in this part of Tsavo, and the wild herds know where to find reliable support. Find out more about how we rescue orphaned elephants and help wild ones thrive:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

11,386 views • 4 days ago

All eyes are on Sulwe for now. But in a couple of years, a new brother or sister might be the centre of everyone’s attention, given that her mother, ex-orphan Sonje, has recently been courting wild bulls in the area. In the meantime, baby fever is set to reach new heights at our Umani Springs Reintegration Unit, where six of our seven older girls are currently pregnant. Since they live wild, we’re treated to antenatal visits of sorts when they choose to return to the Unit. Luckily for us, that’s every few days, giving our Keepers the chance to check on their progress and enjoy moments like this with the growing families. Catch up with our Keepers' Diaries:
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All eyes are on Sulwe for now. But in a couple of years, a new brother or sister might be the centre of everyone’s attention, given that her mother, ex-orphan Sonje, has recently been courting wild bulls in the area. In the meantime, baby fever is set to reach new heights at our Umani Springs Reintegration Unit, where six of our seven older girls are currently pregnant. Since they live wild, we’re treated to antenatal visits of sorts when they choose to return to the Unit. Luckily for us, that’s every few days, giving our Keepers the chance to check on their progress and enjoy moments like this with the growing families. Catch up with our Keepers' Diaries:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

14,581 views • 6 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

A quirk about Sibu: She has refused to drink her milk from a bottle from day one. Instead, she takes her milk from her own personal pail. A Keeper stands guard to protect her from pilfering trunks – but sometimes, greedy Korbessa manages to thwart her bodyguards and sneak a sip or two. Never a drama queen, Sibu happily shares the dregs with her younger friend! An orphan, Sibu is the newest addition to our foster programme. Speared in the shoulder, she was rescued with a serious, septic wound – and emotional scars, too. She’s now growing up in our care until she’s ready to rejoin the wild. Discover her rescue story and support the care of orphaned elephants like her through an adoption:
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A quirk about Sibu: She has refused to drink her milk from a bottle from day one. Instead, she takes her milk from her own personal pail. A Keeper stands guard to protect her from pilfering trunks – but sometimes, greedy Korbessa manages to thwart her bodyguards and sneak a sip or two. Never a drama queen, Sibu happily shares the dregs with her younger friend! An orphan, Sibu is the newest addition to our foster programme. Speared in the shoulder, she was rescued with a serious, septic wound – and emotional scars, too. She’s now growing up in our care until she’s ready to rejoin the wild. Discover her rescue story and support the care of orphaned elephants like her through an adoption:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

12,722 views • 5 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

29,577 views • 17 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

Kaikai exudes joy! She is the happiest little elephant, who starts every morning 'dancing' into the new day! Her best friend Bungalu is just as content, but a little more subdued about it! Kaikai is here today because of supporters like you. Rescued as a newborn orphan, Kaikai will grow up in our care until she’s ready to reclaim her place in the wild – a journey that may take more than a decade. Learn more about Kaikai and support her journey:
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Kaikai exudes joy! She is the happiest little elephant, who starts every morning 'dancing' into the new day! Her best friend Bungalu is just as content, but a little more subdued about it! Kaikai is here today because of supporters like you. Rescued as a newborn orphan, Kaikai will grow up in our care until she’s ready to reclaim her place in the wild – a journey that may take more than a decade. Learn more about Kaikai and support her journey:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

17,149 views • 10 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

21,185 views • 14 days 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 • 25 days ago

The new kid on the block! Last week, our Ithumba Keepers and the dependent orphans gathered to welcome Comet – a newborn, and the 95th known calf born to an orphan elephant we rescued, raised and rewilded. A week on, it’s all smiles as mum Chaimu has chosen to stick around, giving the Keepers and orphans regular glimpses into the new baby’s world. Read the full story:
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The new kid on the block! Last week, our Ithumba Keepers and the dependent orphans gathered to welcome Comet – a newborn, and the 95th known calf born to an orphan elephant we rescued, raised and rewilded. A week on, it’s all smiles as mum Chaimu has chosen to stick around, giving the Keepers and orphans regular glimpses into the new baby’s world. Read the full story:

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

13,378 views • 9 days ago