Remembering Lammie the Legend

On the morning of 29 August, our beloved Lammie woke, but she was weak and did not want to move. Surrounded by those who loved her, we sat with her, ensuring she was never alone. At the gentle pace of her years, she took her last breath in peace. Lammie had lived a long, full life, and while her passing leaves a hole in our hearts, we are grateful that she left us with dignity, comfort and the love she gave so freely throughout her remarkable life.

From the moment Lammie entered the world in 2013, it was clear she had a special heart. She quickly became a steadfast companion to orphaned wildlife, showing devotion and gentleness that knew no species. No matter what she faced, whether a frightened rhino, a playful elephant or even an over-zealous German Shepherd, Lammie always returned to the orphans’ side, calm and patient, offering comfort and love whenever it was needed.

A Very Special Breed, the Thaba-Manzi Pedi Sheep

Lammie was a Thaba-Manzi Pedi sheep, a breed native to South Africa, known for its mothering instincts, resilience and intelligence. Pedi sheep are hardy, able to thrive in challenging environments and capable of forming strong bonds with those around them, qualities Lammie embodied in every way.

Her distinctive fat tail, curving beautifully like a little trunk, was as unique as her personality. Lammie’s thick woolly coat kept her warm through the cold winters, but she always seemed happiest when out with the orphans, whether grazing, trotting beside them on walks or enjoying the occasional tugging of her growing dreadlocks by a playful Khanyisa.

Raising Orphan Rhinos Gertjie and Matimba

Lammie’s early days as a surrogate mother were spent with orphaned rhinos at HESC. She formed a particularly strong bond with Gertjie, a three-month-old rhino who had lost his mother, and later with Matimba, another orphaned white rhino calf.

Through companionship and unwavering patience, Lammie helped them navigate the traumas of their early lives. She became their constant, offering reassurance, warmth and friendship when they needed it most. Watching her with Gertjie and Matimba, it was impossible not to be moved by her natural ability to nurture and care for others.

Raising Baby Elephants Shawu, Mopane, Khanyisa and Phabeni

Lammie’s role at HERD brought her into the lives of several orphaned elephants over the years. She first met little Shawu, and later Amanzi, adapting instantly to these tiny, long-nosed friends.

When Mopane arrived, Lammie stepped naturally into her nurturing role once again, offering calm companionship during his early days of adjustment.

Her care and constancy shone even more brightly when Khanyisa joined HERD. From the very start, Lammie became her devoted companion, greeting Khanyisa at sunrise and welcoming her back at sunset. Their bond grew beautifully as Khanyisa gained confidence and independence, and Lammie remained her loving friend. She played gently, letting Khanyisa tug at her wool or clamber over her during playful moments, and when storms rolled in, she huddled close to offer warmth and comfort.

Later, she extended that same gentle devotion to Phabeni, quietly guiding and supporting him through his own time of need. No matter what happened, Lammie always returned to the orphans’ side, her presence a constant reminder of loyalty, patience and love.

Friendships with Fellow Sheep

As her elephant companions grew and spent more time in the bush, Lammie found friendship in her fellow sheep. Nungu joined HERD to keep her company after she retired, and later, Spotty became part of her little herd.

Together, they shared grazing, slow strolls and moments of comfort. Lammie was often seen gently leading Spotty or Nungu around the nursery, showing her natural protective instincts even with her peers. Sadly, both Nungu and Spotty have passed, leaving Lammie to carry their memories alongside the legacy of the animals she nurtured.

Her Legacy

Lammie’s impact can hardly be measured. She comforted the orphaned, guided the young and reminded us daily that love and compassion are not limited by size, species or circumstance. She leaves behind a legacy of gentleness, patience and unwavering loyalty that will continue to inspire everyone who knew her.

Though we grieve deeply, we celebrate Lammie’s long, full life: a life defined by love, devotion and the heroism of one small sheep who made a world of difference.

Rest easy, dear Lammie. You were a legend, and your memory will forever be part of HERD.