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Dear HERD Friend

The month of love is upon us and we couldn't have more love in our hearts than when we're watching orphan bull, Phabeni integrating into his new elephant family. We can't believe we're already here, introducing the calf to his forever herd. Phabeni has been so cool and calm in the face of great change, accepting each elephant he meets and eager to be among their gentle giant legs.

There have been moments during the introductions that brought us to tears, like when Phabeni took Lundi's teat and suckled beneath her giant frame. Lundi's reaction to the orphan was so memorable, so passionate, extraordinary even if the sheep and older bull, Somopane tried to gatecrash. Phabeni's introduction to Jabulani as the first elephant in the herd he met trunk-to-trunk was so easy, stress-free, a reminder of how tranquil and friendly Jabulani is.

We hope you've been enjoying the progress on our social media and YouTube channel, where we share each introduction, along with the adventures of the rescued and wild elephants in our reserve. Following his meetings with Jabulani and Lundi, Phabeni is already moving on to the next elephant in the herd... Who do you think that will be?

Read the full stories of Phabeni's introductions from Adine:

The First Introduction for Little Bull, Phabeni as he Meets Jabulani

Phabeni Meets Lundi Trunk-To-Trunk for the First Time

Thank you for watching the elephants, caring about their journey, and supporting HERD Trust through kind words or donations. Over the last few days of January, we shared 7 Days of Gratitude to give thanks to some of our partners, to you, to our team, and to the elephants.

Read the blog here for inspiration.

WHAT ELSE HAVE WE BEEN UP TO?

In December 2023, a team of valued workers throughout the Kapama reserve came together to help Ike the White Rhino, a poaching survivor from South Africa. The catch and release mission was led by Dr Peter Rogers and HERD founder, Adine Roode, who each played a vital role in Ike’s initial rescue and ongoing rehabilitation.

Read about it here >

HERD’s mission is closely aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. We acknowledge that development must balance social, economic, and environmental sustainability. To work towards a more eco-friendly way of life, we have initiated several sustainability projects at HERD including the elephant dung compost and Bokashi project.

Read about it here >

www.herd.org.za