By Sunel Craythorne | Donor Care Officer
Life as an elephant is never dull! We are excited to share some news from our beloved herd and give our supporters a unique glimpse into a day in the life of an elephant. Follow along as we discover how these gentle giants spend their days and witness the special moments that make each day unique.
The Morning at the Homestead
Each night, the rescued herd rests safely at the HERD homestead, a space carefully designed to meet their social and physical needs. The homestead is divided into four large quadrants to prevent conflict, especially among older bulls, and to ensure every elephant sleeps comfortably. Social bonds, bloodlines, and individual requirements determine groupings.
As the sun rises, some elephants remain lying on sand mounds while others begin to stir. Morning feeding begins with fresh bana grass, lucerne, branches and clean water at their troughs. Carers perform health checks, attending to injuries or specific conditions. Fishan, for example, receives daily care for a leg pressure wound.
Into the Reserve
After breakfast, the herd moves into the surrounding bushveld. Here, they spend the day roaming, foraging, playing, bathing, and resting. Carers accompany them, ensuring safety and guiding interactions with wildlife or unfamiliar scents.
Feeding areas are rotated to prevent overgrazing and support the sustainability of the landscape. Elephants choose their meals from grasses, leaves, bark, fruit and bulbs, often sticking close to preferred companions. Young elephants learn through observation and social play, while older elephants guide and protect them.
Foraging and Learning
Time in the wild is essential for social and physical development. Bulls test strength through sparring, and older cows teach herd etiquette and nurturing skills. Orphans like Khanyisa initially relied on milk bottles while out in the bush.
Through observation and repetition, youngsters learn to forage, use their trunks effectively and behave like elephants. Each interaction strengthens their skills, confidence and place within the herd.
Midday Swims and Mud Baths
By midday, the herd heads to the waterhole. Some, like Khanyisa and Sebakwe, dive in enthusiastically, while others, such as Lundi, prefer dust baths on dry land. Fishan wades
carefully, using water to ease discomfort in his injured leg. Older elephants protect the youngsters, ensuring everyone enjoys these moments safely.
This period also allows carers to rotate shifts, with some returning to the homestead while others continue with the herd. The elephants act as guardians and teachers, supporting one another naturally.
Heading Home
After walking 10 to 20 kilometres throughout the day, the herd returns to the homestead at sunset. Carers prepare by cleaning the area, removing leftover food and dung, restocking fresh bana grass and lucerne, and rebuilding sand mounds to ease joint strain and improve comfort for sleeping. Special treats, like donated oranges or cabbage, are sometimes added.
As the elephants settle, the homestead returns to peaceful quiet. Deep rumbles across sand beds signal contentment and security, a sign that the herd is safe and at ease for the night.
Every Day Is Unique
At HERD, every day is a step toward healing, growth, and living as close to the wild as possible. Though routines repeat, no two days are ever the same; each one is filled with connection, learning and pure joy, reminding us why these elephants are worth every moment of care and dedication.
Thank you as always for your unwavering support. Your generosity makes every moment of joy, healing, and connection in the herd possible.
We need your help to continue providing for the daily care of these extraordinary animals. Every day brings essential costs, from nutritious food and specialised veterinary care to habitat maintenance and the dedicated team that ensures their wellbeing, comfort, and safety. Without ongoing support, it becomes increasingly difficult to meet these critical needs. Your contribution can make an immediate difference, helping us provide the care, protection, and future these remarkable animals deserve. Together, we can ensure they continue to thrive for years to come.
Kindly click on the link to donate and support the herd: https://globalgiving.org/projects/help-an-elephant-help-a-herd-1
Yours in Conservation,
The HERD Team
By Marlien Van Der Westhuizen | PR & Senior Fundraiser
By Sunel Craythorne | Donor Care Officer
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