I knew I couldn’t go that long before talking more about Sheldrick’s in Nairobi. And sharing a few more pictures, of course (earlier post is here).
Because…baby elephants. Irresistible. But what’s more irresistible is the fascinating and touching stories of the elephants. And because it’s the season of giving; we give to Sheldrick’s!
When you adopt an elephant, you get monthly updates (and sometimes more) on how things are going at not only the orphanage in Nairobi (aka The Nursery Unit), but also from the Umani Springs, Ithumba, and Voi Units. While the Nursery Unit arguably has some pretty adorable activity updates, I’ve found that the updates from the other units really give you insight into the true mission and impact of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
The Babies Stay in Nairobi National Park All Day…and When It’s Dinner Time They Come Running In. And I Mean Running. HUNGRY!!
Sheldrick’s takes an incredibly holistic approach to elephants–they rescue abandoned or injured babies through their mobile veterinary teams and airplanes, then nurture them in Nairobi until they become old and well-adapted enough to succeed in a transitional location with stockades. They move them to these sites, which allows them to meet and greet (and linger) with wild elephants, while enjoying safety at night with keepers. With time, these elephants transition to living in the wild, just like any other wild elephant.
But the bond between keeper and elephant often remains: elephants raised and ultimately reintroduced by Sheldrick’s often return to the units. As Sheldrick’s monthly updates indicate, sometimes they come back for medical care (e.g., to have poison arrows removed), visit with the new orphans, or to show off their new, wild-born babies. These are the type of stories included in the monthly updates (and online on their website) that seriously make me melt–I told you I was better at showing affection to animals than to people! Certainly not all updates are happy ones–but they are honest and tactful in explaining when a baby doesn’t make it or something happens in the bush.
The Nursery Babies are Accompanied into Nairobi National Park Each Day by Their Keepers, Who Watch Their Health and Fend of Predators
It’s a pretty incredible operation because not only has Sheldrick’s figured out how to rescue, nurture, raise, and transition these elephants back into the wild as stable, healthy members of the herd, they simultaneously provide aerial surveillance and anti-poaching teams in addition to veterinary units in an attempt to change the situation on the ground. Sheldrick’s has a demonstrated record of success, and it’s hard to argue they aren’t making a significant difference.
When the Tiny Ones Come in From the Park, they Eat and Then Go Fast Asleep, Exhausted from Their Long Day
While other organizations we donate to send me more junk mail in a year (asking for more money) than could fit into Santa’s sleigh, I appreciate that Sheldrick’s provides actual details on their programs, routinely, that are extremely well-written and touching. With an absolute stunning watercolor of an elephant, too! I look forward to receiving the monthly news, which is way more than can be said for my excitement in shredding yet another donation letter. A good organization + good communication? I’m a fan.
Depending on their Mood and Personality, Some Like to Be Touched when in the Nursery; Only Keepers Can Accompany Them into the Park or Stay with Them at Night
If you haven’t visited the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi, but are interested in seeing the elephants and supporting their cause, I’d wholeheartedly recommend it.
[And before someone asks: no, I don’t get anything from Sheldrick’s for writing this post and yes, it is totally unsolicited].
