Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor

by Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation & Development
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Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor
Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor

Project Report | Jan 23, 2026
Let's Celebrate Khanyisa!

By Sunel Craythorne | Donor Care Officer

Your support means the world to us, and we are excited to share an update on Khanyisa.

Back in 2020, the world first met this very special elephant and was astounded by her pink appearance. As the dark clouds of the pandemic surrounded us, Khanyisa's light brought joy to thousands!

As we look back at the past years, we stand in awe of the resilience and bravery this little elephant has shown.

2020

Rescued as a four-month-old calf, she arrived at HERD in 2020 with severe snare injuries that left deep wounds around her ears, cheeks, and mouth. Weighing just 124kg, she faced a long road to recovery, but her spirit shine through from the start.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MR4m_I-lBU

2021 

It was not long before Khanyisa was known all over the world! With her cares always ready with a bottle of milk. We eagerly watched as our Sunshine filled up on all the energy her busy and growing body needs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4ZbnMoY9x0

2022

On her last morning at the orphanage, before moving to the homestead with the herd, there are no farewells, no tears, only the same joyful glug of milk bottles, grassy bites, sheepy comfort, and friendly carers.

https://herd.org.za/blog/khanyisas-first-night-at-the-homestead/

2023

Despite standing almost as high as her carers, Khanyisa was still a baby in 2023. With milk bottles waiting for her at the orphanage, Khanyisa races home from her day out with her herd. Khanyisa lifts her milk up, gobbles it down, and moves on to the next one. How she has grown!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4p4eCMWo7aE

2024 

Watch as Adine takes a stroll with the herd with an unexpected start to the morning as Khanyisa causes some chaos and backtracks to visit her old orphanage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWxzTZQO6jQ

2025 

Khanyisa has captured hearts with her courage, charm, and gentle spirit. Today we look back at the six moments that touched the world and remind us why she is our forever “sunshine.” 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9WKKJFBdnA&t=169s

We know the love you have for Khanyisa and appreciate your support and care.

Donate and make a tangible difference in the life of an elephant in our care.

Thank you for your continued support. Your commitment to Khanyisa makes all the difference.

If this trip down memory lane inspired you to donate, please visit the project page at: Raise Khanyisa Orphaned Elephant Snaring Survivor

Yours in Conservation

The HERD Team

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Organization Information

Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation & Development

Location: Pretoria, Gauteng - South Africa
Website:
Facebook: Facebook Page
X / Twitter: Profile
Project Leader:
Adine Roode
Pretoria , Gauteng South Africa

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