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It is with immense sadness that we share the loss of our beloved companion sheep, Spotty.
In the early hours of the 8th of May, while our carers were preparing food and cleaning the sheep’s area, a leopard from the reserve managed to get through the gate and into the orphanage. It was a matter of minutes, but by the time the team returned, it was too late. Spotty had passed.
Living on a wildlife reserve is a privilege, but it comes with risks. We take every precaution to ensure the safety of all the animals under our care. Sadly, this was a heartbreaking example of nature asserting itself, reminding us just how closely we live alongside the wild.
Spotty may have been small in size, but the space he filled in our lives and hearts was vast. He joined HERD in December 2023 to support Lammie, our devoted sheep and long-time caregiver to orphaned elephants. Lammie was ready for a more peaceful season of her life, and Spotty was the perfect companion to carry on the comforting legacy she had shaped over the years.
Born just a few months before arriving at HERD, Spotty quickly adapted to his new home, his woolly coat and gentle nature becoming familiar sights around the orphanage. He developed a strong bond with Phabeni, our baby elephant orphan who had arrived only a month before. Though they didn’t always see eye-to-eye, a quiet, gentle companionship grew between them. Spotty stayed close to Phabeni till the very end, offering the kind of presence that needed no words.
Spotty also brought joy to Lammie and helped to ease tension between her and Nandi, Adine’s German Shepherd. The three would often be seen walking the grounds together, joined sometimes by Nandi, forming a sweet little herd of their own. His energy brought a spring back into Lammie’s step and lightened the daily rhythms at the orphanage.
We will remember Spotty for his love of fresh sekelbush, his unmistakable spotted coat (which looked just like a cosy blanket), his mild but mischievous spirit and his incredible role in bringing balance and comfort to the lives of others, including our human herd.
He reminded us that love comes in all shapes, sizes and species. And that the quietest companions often leave the loudest echoes when they’re gone.
Thank you for being with us as we remember Spotty. His presence will always be part of HERD.
Spotty was a dear addition to the family and is sorely missed. My condolences to all that knew him and will miss. him.
k watched a couple videos where he was acting so goofy such a sweetgqart
It was heart breaking to hear the news. Spotty was such a joy and I remember fondly him running with Phabeni. Gone but not forgotten. May he continue to run free, along with Phabeni and all those who have left this earth. May they continue their journey with playfulness and joy.
Our little stealer of hearts. And his biggest steal would certainly be that of Lammie’s heart. Dear, sweet Spotty, may your soul be up there, where all souls eventually meet. Until we meet again, sweetheart, we will miss you and love you.