Protecting Elephants

Thank you for supporting David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation through GlobalGiving.

Over the past six-months, David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) have continued to work alongside our ground-based conservation partners in Zamia to support the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of orphaned elephants. One of the key elements of this project is the protection of the release site which is vital to ensure the protection of these elephants as they integrate back into the wild.

In the past 6 months Thanks to an incredible, collaborative effort, another two young elephant orphans have been rescued in Zambia, named Chipembele and Wamwayi.  

Chipembele: Chipembele (known as chip) was found next to his mother who had very sadly suffered a fatal gunshot wound. Chip was rescued and after some time, having been provided with food, water and a keepers constant company, he began to settle. He was willing to accept a bottle from his keeper within 24 hours of his rescue, but he did not relax enough to sleep for over three days. Chipembele faces a challenging journey to recover from his trauma but is it the best hands for a chance of a life back in the wild, where he belongs.  

Wamwayi: Little Wamwayi was found stuck in a mud hole with no sign of his mother or herd nearby to help him. The 2-month-old calf was provided with essential care by GRI who stabilised his condition and provided some much-needed comfort. Wamwayi responded well after some much-needed rest and nutrients and was deemed strong enough to take the next important step of his rehabilitation. Wamwayi was transferred to the Lilayi Elephant Nursery where he can now socialise with other orphaned elephants and start his journey back into the wild.

The Bigger Picture

Over the past 12 months, DSWF have continued our 37-year legacy of providing unwavering support to protect some of the world’s most endangered species. Over the course of 2022 we will continue to support our long-term conservation partners to protect wildlife, tackle wildlife crime and reduce poaching threats alongside engaging and supporting more community groups working to protect wildlife.

Thanks to your help, we have granted over £11 million in direct conservation support to turn the tide on extinction.

On behalf of everyone at DSWF and the wildlife we fight to protect, Thank You.

Links:

• Read more about the elephant orphans on our blog.
• Read our latest edition of Wildlife Matters magazine.