By Jade
February is the month of love, and at HERD, love comes in many forms, not just between humans, but across the herd as well. From lifelong friendships to nurturing bonds between mothers, daughters, bulls and allomothers, the elephants in our care show us every day how connection, trust and companionship shape their lives. This Valentine’s … Continued
By Jade
The heavy rains and flooding that swept across Limpopo in January 2026 have left a deep mark on communities, landscapes, and wildlife across the province. For HERD, the floods were not just a temporary disruption, but a serious test of our resilience. As the floodwaters recede, our focus has shifted from emergency response to long-term … Continued
By Jade
Thank you for standing with us through every chapter of Fishan’s journey. Your compassion makes it possible for us to provide him with the specialised care he needs, especially during times like these when nature adds unexpected challenges. Weather Delays and Planning Ahead We had scheduled a second X‑ray session for Fishan this past Monday, … Continued
By Jade
In recent weeks, extreme rainfall and flooding across Limpopo Province have resulted in severe destruction of roads, bridges, and drainage systems, as well as to sanitation and power infrastructure. Thankfully, the rain has temporarily ceased, but access to many areas, including the HERD orphanage, remains severely restricted, heightening risks to both human and animal safety. … Continued
By Jade
Hoedspruit, South Africa – 14 January 2026 HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) is currently responding to extreme rainfall and flooding impacting Hoedspruit and surrounding conservation areas, with increasing concern around damage to the land, reserve infrastructure, and sensitive ecosystems. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 9 warning, classifying the … Continued
By Jade
At HERD, we are passionate about nurturing the next generation of conservation leaders. Each year, we have the privilege of welcoming students from institutions like the NewBridge Graduate Institute to gain hands-on experience in elephant care, wildlife conservation, and community engagement. These students bring energy, curiosity, and fresh perspectives, and in return, they leave having … Continued
By Jade
Today marks six years since Khanyisa was rescued from a poacher’s snare, beginning a journey that has inspired so many around the world. From her fragile early days as a rare albino calf to the joyful, curious juvenile she is today, Khanyisa has grown, healed and flourished with the love of her elephant herd, her … Continued
By Jade
It is with deep sadness that we share the tragic loss of one of our most cherished team members, Robert Mashile, who passed away on Christmas Day, 2025. Robert was on his way to work from his family home in Oak Valley when the truck he was travelling in was struck in a collision. Three … Continued
By Jade
The Morning at the Homestead Each night, the rescued herd rests safely at the HERD homestead, a space carefully designed to meet their social and physical needs. The homestead is divided into four large quadrants to prevent conflict, especially among older bulls, and to ensure every elephant sleeps comfortably. Groupings are determined by social bonds, … Continued
By Jade
Born on one of the hottest days of summer, Pisa entered the world with determination and strength, qualities that continue to define her sixteen years later. On 13 November 2009, while out in the bush, Tokwe, the matriarch of the Jabulani herd, went into labour with no warning. Within an hour, a small but mighty … Continued
