Press Release – March 2026 Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD) has announced plans to establish a dedicated on-site research centre to advance scientific understanding of elephant health, emotional well-being, behaviour, and environmental stressors. South Africa is home to one of the largest remaining populations of African elephants. Yet despite their presence in game reserves … Continued
We are incredibly proud to share a collaboration that beautifully bridges the worlds of fine art and wildlife conservation, one that directly supports the orphaned elephants in our care at HERD. Internationally renowned sculptor François Vandenberghe, together with Cafmeyer Gallery and the Izindlovu Fund, has created two exceptional limited‑edition bronze elephant sculptures. Each piece tells … Continued
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
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
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
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
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
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
As we near the end of 2025, our HERD Team would like to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to all our amazing donors, supporters, and followers this year. Your kindness, generosity, and support have made it possible to take care of the Jabulani Herd, protect their environment, and reach out to our … Continued
By Adine Roode Fishan, our 33-year-old elephant bull, injured his left front leg in September last year, after stepping into a man-made hole in the ground. His leg was too swollen to allow us to take decent X-rays, but it was clear that he had a fracture on the lower part of the leg, above … Continued
