Understanding the Difficult Decision: Limpopo’s Journey and Our Commitment to Safety

Over the past month, we have taken time to reflect on the heartbreaking events of September. We have had to face the grief of losing our trusted HERD carer, Israel Shambira, who tragically passed away in the line of duty, fulfilling his calling and remaining an irreplaceable part of our HERD family. We also mourn Limpopo, whose inquisitive and intelligent nature left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

We understand the gravity of these events and the deep emotional impact they have had on all of us. As a community, we grieve together, struggling to reconcile the pain of loss with the hope we continue to hold for conservation.

On 13 September 2025, Limpopo, a female elephant, fatally attacked Israel, one of our most experienced and deeply respected carers. Israel had worked with the Jabulani herd  and HERD for over two decades and was loved by both his colleagues and the elephants he cared for.

This tragic incident shook our entire team and community. In the days that followed, we explored every possible alternative to ensure the safety of both the herd and our carers. One such option was to relocate Limpopo, along with a small group of her closest companions, to a temporary holding area at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC).

Despite detailed planning, the relocation attempt was unsuccessful. The distress within the herd, especially among Limpopo and her bonded group, quickly became evident, leading to serious safety concerns.

Ultimately, on 19 September 2025, after exhausting every viable alternative and with the safety of our team and herd at stake, we made the heart-wrenching decision to humanely euthanise Limpopo. It was the most difficult decision we have ever faced, one made with immense sorrow, deep reflection, and a profound sense of responsibility.

We are deeply grateful for the many heartfelt messages, questions, and reflections we’ve received from our community. Your words remind us of the deep connection we share with you, a shared love for these elephants and the people who dedicate their lives to their care. In this blog, we hope to answer your questions and offer insight into the decisions made, as part of our continued commitment to openness and learning.

The Aftermath of Israel’s Death: Protecting Our Carers and Seeking a Way Forward

Following Israel’s passing, our immediate responsibility was to ensure the safety of both carers and elephants. Many carers expressed understandable fear of being near Limpopo after the incident, and we had to find urgent solutions, time was not on our side.

Adine Roode, HERD’s founder, immediately consulted trusted advisors, including experts from the Elephant Reintegration Trust. The plan was to relocate Limpopo, together with a bonded group including Tokwe (the matriarch), to a temporary 50-hectare site at HESC. This would allow us to manage Limpopo under protected contact while working toward the long-term goal of rewilding.

Rewilding has always been central to HERD’s vision as the herd grows. Some elephants, particularly those most bonded to their human carers — will remain to help nurture orphans, but preparing a rewilding site requires careful planning, funding, and time. The events of September accelerated discussions already underway.

Limpopo was Tokwe’s firstborn and the first calf born into the Jabulani herd. She had never experienced trauma or cruelty; her life had been one of safety, stability, and care. For this reason, her actions came as a profound shock to all of us. There were no warning signs, no scars of the past to explain her behaviour. We share in the sorrow, confusion, and disbelief felt by our community.

Exploring Alternatives and the Path to HESC

A workable option was to relocate Limpopo with a bonded group, including Tokwe, to a temporary holding facility until a suitable rewilding area could be prepared. Two potential sites were considered, both offering access to water and the possibility of erecting secure fencing. However, one was too close to the existing homestead, posing a risk of the elephants returning. The second site, located near an old borehole from Adine’s grandfather’s time, required refurbishment and infrastructure upgrades to be viable.

Additional logistical challenges quickly emerged. The area’s high tourist traffic complicated fencing logistics, and the size of the enclosure required, along with the construction of water troughs, meant building from scratch would take more than a month. Time was not on our side.

Back to Square One

When Tigere Matipedza, HERD’s Elephant Manager, suggested relocating the group to the HESC, Adine’s initial reaction was hesitation. Yet, as the team weighed the options, it became clear this could save precious time. HESC had two vacant rhino camps that could be repurposed. With full teams working together, the electrification of fences,  high and low on both sides,  could be completed in just two days to prevent contact with wild elephants. Two energisers were secured to ensure reliability.

Water was another priority. HESC often faces shortages, and elephants require large volumes daily. The team used a 5,000-litre tank to fill a natural mud wallow and drinking troughs. The tractor made six trips, and the mud wallow quickly became a playful space for the elephants at the new temporary location.

Safety protocols were also a priority. We couldn’t simply leave the group unattended. Supplementary feeding, behavioural monitoring, and dung sample collection were initiated immediately. Carers maintained contact from vehicles, and data collection began to track any behavioural changes, not just in relation to humans, but within the herd itself.

Although HESC and HERD are both located on the same reserve, a formal permit was still required to relocate elephants to the new site. Adine worked closely with local governmental officials from the Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism in Limpopo (LEDET) to secure this urgently, ensuring full legal compliance and insurance coverage ensuring HERD took full accountability for the elephants.

Within just three days, HERD teams completed fencing, secured water, and implemented a rotation plan to deliver clean water daily from Jabulani to HESC. This temporary solution not only bought us time but also allowed us to continue working toward our long-term vision of rewilding. HESC’s facilities provided a safe, structured environment where the elephants could be monitored closely, while we continued planning for a permanent rewilding site.

Preparations for Relocation

The Elephants Selected to be Relocated with Limpopo

• A total of seven elephants were identified for relocation: Limpopo, Tokwe, Pisa, Fishan, Bubi, Zindoga, and Mambo. Each elephant was chosen based on emotional bonds and practical needs. Particular consideration was given to Fishan, who requires special care due to his old leg injury.
• Lundi, Setombe, and Klaserie remained at HERD to care for the orphans, Khanyisa, Timisa, and Kumbura, alongside the bulls Jabulani, Somopane, and Sebakwe. This was not an easy decision, but careful planning was needed to ensure each elephant’s wellbeing.
• Land options for Fishan were especially important; his condition means he benefits from walking shorter distances each day, choosing his own pace and range of movement..

Permits:

• Relocating elephants requires a special permit, a process that can often take significant time. Given the urgency of the situation, Adine worked closely with officials from LEDET to secure the necessary permits within days, ensuring full legal compliance before the move could proceed.

A Temporary Holding Area and the Urgency of the Decision:

• A temporary holding area had to be identified for an indefinite period, one that offered access to water and ideally electricity. Solar panels were considered to electrify the enclosures, ensuring the elephants were protected from wild elephants that might attempt to breach the fences. Given the high volume of tourism activity on the reserve, we also had to factor in the impact of restricting access to certain areas, which would affect other companies with whom we share traversing rights. This led to further negotiations around restricted zones. While discussions with various stakeholders were ongoing, the reality was that constructing a new enclosure would take at least a month, time we simply did not have. The idea to use existing facilities at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) emerged, and after careful consideration, Adine contacted HESC’s management to request permission to repurpose the vacant rhino enclosures.
• This solution significantly reduced the timeline. Instead of building from scratch, we only needed to electrify the existing enclosures, which we managed to complete in just three days. The reserve and operations team at HERD worked tirelessly to fence the enclosure, secure water, and establish a water management plan to deliver clean water from Jabulani to HESC on a daily rotation. This was to guarantee the elephants had an adequate water supply, along with other land preparations at HESC, all completed within just three days.

Route planning:

• The route was set out for the elephants to walk alongside their carers. Fishan’s condition had to be factored in, and the team had to plan for food, water, and medical needs along the 10km route for both the elephants and the carers.
• Transporting the elephants by vehicle was ruled out, as this would require tranquilisation, an approach far too risky given their size, weight, and the stress and trauma it could cause. Walking together under calm, familiar conditions remained the most humane and viable option.

19 September: The Attempted Relocation

Everything had been planned down to the finest detail. The relocation was scheduled for the morning of 19 September. To avoid alerting the elephants to any change in routine, we chose to begin the journey at the usual time. Food was prepared the day before, and three carers remained behind to care for the elephants who were not part of the move. Buckets of food were placed strategically to keep Khanyisa, Timisa, and Kumbura occupied and calm

The enclosures were opened to allow the elephants to move freely between them, and the group, Limpopo, Tokwe, Pisa, Fishan, Bubi, Zindoga, and Mambo, set off with their carers. The plan was for them to walk the 10km route to the temporary enclosure at HESC, a method chosen to reduce stress and avoid the need for tranquilisation.

However, within the first kilometre, Khanyisa trumpeted loudly from the homestead. This emotional call triggered a strong reaction from Tokwe and the rest of the herd, causing them to turn back. In the heightened emotional state that followed, Limpopo charged at two longstanding team members, Last and Stefan, both of whom she had known for many years. In a moment of instinct and bravery, Tigere stepped in front of Limpopo, preventing what could have been another tragic loss. Thankfully, Limpopo did not gore him.

In that moment, the danger became undeniable. The emotional disruption within the herd and the risk to human life were too great. Adine, who had raised Limpopo and shared an unbreakable bond with her, realised that another life could not be lost. The decision that followed was one of the most painful decisions Adine and the team had had to make.

The Heart-Wrenching Decision to Euthanise Limpopo

Faced with this crisis, HERD made the devastating decision to euthanise Limpopo to ensure the safety of both humans and elephants.

Adine, who had known Limpopo since birth and shared 19 years of trust and love with her, described it as the hardest decision of her life. Questions filled her mind: how would her mother, Tokwe, react? How would the herd cope? There were so many unknowns and valid concerns, but Adine had to take this agonising decision on her shoulders.

The reality was stark. While we often hear tragic stories of even domesticated animals, like dogs, turning on loved ones, the stakes with a three-tonne elephant are vastly higher. The sheer size and strength of Limpopo highlighted the seriousness of this decision. It is crucial to recognise the risks involved and understand why, despite the love and history shared with her, this choice had to be made for the safety of her caregivers and the community.

A Message from Adine

I wish I knew why there are so many difficult questions and decisions to make when your time is limited, when it affects so many lives, and when you can’t predict the outcome. There is no manual that prepares you for decisions like this in life. You can listen to everyone’s perspective, but the final decision rests in your hands. You need to stay objective, unemotional, and think clearly, even when your heart is breaking.

Elephants understand death. Their emotional trauma mirrors what we as humans feel in moments of deep loss. I am not blind to this truth, it’s one of the reasons we are so deeply committed to elephant conservation and why HERD was born.

We have walked alongside elephants, not just physically, but emotionally. We’ve moved beyond language and species differences, guided by empathy and a shared understanding of pain. This compassion is at the heart of everything we do.

— Adine Roode, Founder of HERD

Addressing Community Questions

We know that many of you have been seeking clarity and reassurance following the events of September. Your questions have been thoughtful, heartfelt, and deeply appreciated. In this section, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions or criticisms and offer our responses with openness and care.

Our goal is to help you better understand the decisions made, the challenges faced, and the steps taken to protect both our elephants and the people who care for them. We remain committed to transparency, compassion, and learning—together, as a community.

Rewilding Limpopo on her own was not a viable option.

Female elephants are deeply social animals and do not thrive in isolation. Had Limpopo been released alone, especially on the same reserve as the rest of the herd, she would almost certainly have returned to the homestead. This would have posed further risk and emotional distress, not only to her closest companions, Tokwe and Pisa, but also to the rest of the herd and their carers.

To achieve the best ethical outcome for both elephant groups, it is crucial to understand the social bonds that have formed in semi-captivity. Elephants are highly social animals, each with unique characteristics and sensitivities, and every individual requires a personalised reintegration programme. The success of any reintegration effort depends on several factors: the method used, the group’s social structure, the age and history of each elephant, and their individual personalities. Separating Limpopo from her bonded group could have caused serious emotional and behavioural consequences for the herd as a whole.

HERD has always prioritised a thoughtful and informed approach to rewilding. The Elephant Reintegration Trust (ERT), with its extensive experience, plays a vital advisory role in HERD’s planning and decision-making. Their guidance ensures that every rewilding programme is grounded in best practice, scientific insight, and a deep understanding of elephant behaviour and welfare.

Despite thousands of orphaned elephants having been released in Africa over the last decades, there remains very limited documentation on their long-term outcomes. There is no definitive record of what happened to many of these individuals once rewilded. The ERT stands out as one of the few organisations actively documenting both the successes and challenges of rewilding, creating a valuable legacy for future generations.

Accepting an orphan elephant is not a short-term commitment. It is a lifelong responsibility that can span up to sixty years. From the moment an orphan arrives, the responsibility includes providing milk, dedicated carers, medical care, rewilding planning, and long-term support through every stage of life, including death. Often, the person who brings the orphan into care walks away without any ongoing responsibility, leaving the full burden on the organisation.

This reality underscores the need for ethical, well-documented, and sustainable rewilding practices. HERD remains committed to ensuring that every elephant under its care receives the long-term support and protection they deserve, not for personal gain, but out of a deep sense of custodianship and compassion.

What was Limpopo’s behaviour like before the attack?

Limpopo had never shown sustained aggression. At times, she pushed boundaries more than the other elephants, often displaying a curious and inquisitive nature. Unlike many herd members who came from traumatic pasts, Limpopo was born into safety and care. She never experienced separation, poaching, or any form of training. Her upbringing was stable and nurturing, which made the severity of her actions all the more shocking to those who knew her.

Emotionally, she was known to seek approval and connection, and while she occasionally tested limits, these behaviours were never cause for concern. Importantly, no one observed any behavioural changes or warning signs prior to the attack. Her actions came without precedent, leaving the team and community in disbelief and sorrow.

Did the Herd Get to Say Goodbye to Limpopo?

Yes, the HERD family was given the opportunity to say goodbye to Limpopo. We made the decision to sedate her before administering the euthanasia drug, allowing the herd to be with her in a calm and peaceful setting. Tokwe, the matriarch, along with several of the cows, spent approximately 20 minutes around Limpopo, gently interacting with her as she lay resting. The bulls, however, did not show the same level of attention, which is not uncommon in elephant social dynamics.

Once the herd had spent their time with her, both the carers and elephants moved away, and the euthanasia drug was administered. Limpopo passed quickly and without pain.

We chose to bury Limpopo at the very spot where the herd had last seen her. A few days later, the elephants returned to that place. Tokwe, Lundi, and Jabulani showed signs of recognition and emotion, what we interpret as a form of mourning, while the other bulls, once again, did not linger and continued feeding. 

Elephants are known to understand death and exhibit complex mourning behaviours. Observations and research have shown that they often revisit the remains of deceased herd members, sometimes touching and smelling the bones. In fact, researchers like Cynthia Moss have noted that elephants behave differently around the bones of their own species. It is also evident when it involves a human who had a close relationship with them. 

We honoured Limpopo by burying her with care, covering the site with thorn branches to protect it from scavengers. This moment was not only a farewell but also a deeply emotional and symbolic gesture—for the herd, for our carers, and for all who loved her.

Was a Necropsy Carried Out on Limpopo?

This is a question we’ve received often, and it’s one that deserves a thoughtful and transparent answer.

First, it’s important to understand what a full necropsy on an elephant entails. A necropsy is a highly complex and invasive procedure. It requires a large, skilled team, heavy machinery, specialized tools like axes and electric saws, and strict safety protocols. The process involves a full external and internal examination, including the dissection of major organs and the collection of tissue samples. It can take an entire day to complete and must be conducted in a controlled environment, far from the rest of the herd, to avoid distress and potential disease transmission.

Elephants are deeply emotional beings. They grieve, they mourn, and they are acutely aware of death. Performing a necropsy within hearing or smelling distance can cause significant psychological distress to the herd. It can alter their behaviour, disrupt social dynamics, and lead to long-term emotional consequences. Even though the herd was moved away during Limpopo’s euthanasia, they were still within a 2km radius, well within range to sense what was happening.

In Limpopo’s case, we made the difficult decision not to proceed with a full necropsy. Earlier that week, detailed bloodwork had been conducted by Dr. Rogers, showing no signs of abnormalities. These tests are highly sensitive and would have indicated any underlying disease, inflammation, or organ dysfunction. Given the results, and the fact that Limpopo was humanely euthanised using a drug that is lethal even in minuscule quantities to other animals and humans, we chose not to risk contaminating the environment or exposing the herd and carers to unnecessary trauma.

We acknowledge that necropsies can provide valuable scientific insights, especially when paired with bloodwork. In past cases, such as with our orphan Phabeni, a necropsy helped us understand the full extent of an internal infection that was not immediately apparent. However, in Limpopo’s case, the bloodwork did not indicate any condition that would have been further clarified by a necropsy. The decision was made with the utmost care, compassion, and consideration for both the living herd and the people who care for them.

“Euthanising an animal is one of the most painful responsibilities for any caregiver. It is never taken lightly. I have never harmed an animal for pleasure. Since childhood, I have fought for every life in my care, often at great personal cost. I’ve missed birthdays, school events, and family milestones to be by an animal’s side. Every loss is deeply felt, and Limpopo’s was no different.”

– Adine Roode

We understand that people may have questions, and we welcome them. We believe in transparency and learning through every experience, no matter how painful. Our hope is that by sharing our reasoning, we can offer insight into the complexity of these decisions and the deep love and responsibility we feel for every elephant in our care.

Have the Elephants Shown Signs of Mourning?

Naturally, this has been our most significant concern.

We have monitored the herd closely. They have remained calm and settled since Limpopo’s passing. Daily reports from carers continue, and we are initiating new on-site research to deepen our understanding of stress and mourning in elephants.

Elephants are highly social beings with complex individual personalities. We know they show an interest in death, often investigating carcasses not limited to kin. However, research does not yet fully explore whether individuals change their behaviours or personalities following traumatic events such as the death of a conspecific.

Did contraception play a role?

First and most important: contraception is not optional for us. It is a mandatory requirement issued by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) under the Elephant Norms and Standards. It is a condition of the permits in HERD’s elephant management plan.

This is a question we have been asked, and we take it seriously.

At HERD, we work closely with wildlife veterinarians and behaviour experts. Every contraception decision is made with the elephants’ welfare at heart. There is no evidence linking contraception to Limpopo’s behaviour, and no behavioural changes were observed before the incident. We continue to monitor and evaluate the health and wellbeing of each elephant in our care.

Contraception in elephants is complex and often misunderstood. Adine recalls a recent conversation with a family member who asked a well-known scientist, “Do elephant cows also get as moody as some women who use contraception and become utterly crazy?” She was taken aback, not only by the question but by the lack of understanding behind it. Despite having access to the same scientific resources she had shared, he dismissed her years of experience in conservation and working with elephants. It was a reminder of how much work remains, not only in research but in building trust and respect for the knowledge of those who live this work every day.

Scientific studies have explored anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccines to manage androgen-related behaviour and fertility in both captive and free-ranging elephant bulls, and to induce anoestrus in cows. One study examined links between faecal androgen metabolites (FAM), faecal cortisol metabolites (FCM), and aggressive behaviour, testing GnRH vaccines as a method to reduce aggression and musth in bulls.

HERD does not breed with elephants. As a semi-captive environment, we do not support the removal of babies from the wild. While taking in captive elephants is never our first choice due to the complex social nature of the species, we recognise that the introduction of orphaned calves can enhance the emotional wellbeing and social structure of the Jabulani herd. These introductions allow the herd to express natural behaviours, especially maternal instincts, and provide the most humane and effective way to reintegrate orphans into elephant society.

We remain committed to decisions grounded in science, compassion, and lived experience. Questions about contraception may persist. We will continue to seek answers through research, collaboration, and a deep respect for the elephants we are privileged to care for.

The Future of Rewilding at HERD

Rewilding remains one of HERD’s long-term goals—a vision rooted in compassion, science, and responsibility. But it’s a journey that cannot be rushed. For a herd as socially bonded as the Jabulani herd, relocation is a complex process that requires careful planning, land acquisition, permits, and extensive fundraising.

The tragic events of September have prompted us to reevaluate which elephants may be suitable for rewilding and which should remain as part of the surrogate herd for orphaned calves. Our temporary plan to move Limpopo and her close companions to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) was designed to ensure safety while allowing us to continue working toward a permanent rewilding solution.

Rewilding is not just about releasing elephants into the wild—it’s about doing so ethically and sustainably. Challenges include finding the right land, choosing ethical partners, ensuring community safety, and maintaining the emotional wellbeing of both elephants and carers. One of the most pressing concerns is the impact on orphaned elephants if they are introduced into a wild system without older, nurturing females. Research from HERD and the University of Pretoria has shown that orphans integrated into a family herd at an early stage experience significantly lower stress levels than those introduced later in life. Our research material will be published in this regard in the near future.

That’s why HERD is focused on building a long-term strategy for elephant rehabilitation—one that mitigates chronic stress and supports orphans in developing the capacity to thrive in a wild system, at a pace that respects their emotional and social needs.

We base our processes on the best available evidence and expertise, always seeking innovative solutions to enhance elephant wellbeing. HERD aims to be South Africa’s leading entity in orphan elephant rehabilitation, setting ethical standards and contributing to responsible conservation practices.

Rewilding the entire herd is not the best solution. If all adult females were relocated, there would be no maternal figures left to guide and nurture incoming orphans during their critical early years. Our experience has shown how vital these relationships are to the emotional development of young elephants.

For 28 years, HERD has provided land and care for elephants, our flagship species, contributing not only to conservation but also to the sustainable use of natural capital for the benefit of people and wildlife. We remain committed to creating a sanctuary where partially rewilded elephants can live safely and meaningfully throughout their lives.

It’s important to note that very little research exists on the long-term outcomes of rewilded orphan elephants. While thousands may have been released across Africa, there is no definitive record of what became of them. The Elephant Reintegration Trust (ERT) is one of the few organisations actively documenting both the successes and challenges of rewilding, creating a legacy of learning for future generations.

Rewilding is a lifelong commitment. From the moment an orphan arrives, the responsibility spans decades, covering milk, carers, medical care, rewilding planning, and support through every stage of life, including death. Often, the person who brings the orphan into care walks away, leaving the full burden on the organisation. HERD accepts this responsibility with humility and dedication, ensuring that every elephant is cared for not just today, but for the rest of their life.

Tokwe and the Herd Today

In the wake of Limpopo’s passing, the Jabulani herd has shown remarkable resilience. Tokwe, the matriarch, remains central to the herd’s structure and continues to lead with calm authority. Despite the emotional disruption caused by the attempted relocation and the loss of Limpopo, the herd has stabilised, and no abnormal behaviour has been recorded

To better understand the emotional impact, we’ve begun analysing dung samples to assess stress levels within the herd. We acknowledge that mourning is a natural part of elephant behaviour, and we expect signs of grief to surface over time. Interestingly, while the bulls have not shown particular interest in Limpopo’s absence, Sebakwe has noticeably responded to the loss of Israel, his longtime caregiver. Their bond was rare—marked by mutual respect and quiet wisdom, something that only comes with age and deep connection

Pisa has been checking in with Tokwe more frequently, offering quiet companionship, yet still maintaining her playful nature with Zindoga. Setombe and Klaserie, who were never closely bonded with Limpopo, continue to lead confidently during bush walks, unaffected by the recent changes

Fishan has shown signs of irritation, which we’ve traced back to pain in his leg. He’s been observed resting his head against trees to relieve pressure. Dr Johan Marais, who was scheduled to assess Fishan on 18 September, had to postpone his visit. Once he returns from photographing Big tuskers in Kruger and Kenya, we’ll proceed with X-rays and review Fishan’s treatment plan

Overall, the herd’s interactions remain gentle. They have not displayed aggression toward one another or their carers, which is a reassuring sign of emotional stability during this difficult time.

Why Allow Tourist Interactions?

At HERD, we understand that allowing human-elephant interactions raises important questions. Our approach is rooted in education, empathy, and sustainability. The interactions we offer are minimal, strictly controlled, and designed to be respectful and enriching—for both elephants and people.

Only a limited number of elephants participate in these educational experiences, with a maximum of three elephants present at any one time. The matriarch and calves are never involved. These sessions are guided by experienced carers and take place in a structured environment where safety is paramount. The goal is not entertainment, but connection—helping visitors understand the elephants’ stories, their emotional depth, and the importance of conservation. 

Elephants thrive in complex social systems, and the structure of the herd plays a vital role in their wellbeing. The discipline and peer support within the herd not only benefits the orphans being integrated, but also allows the elephants to express their natural instincts—especially maternal behaviours that are essential to their emotional health. 

HERD takes a holistic approach to conservation, leveraging both elephant-related goods (such as dung for ecological use) and services (like ecotourism and education) to ensure the sustainability of the land and the protection of the elephants. These interactions contribute significantly to HERD’s income—55% of our funding comes from visitor experiences, which helps cover the costs of care, rehabilitation, and long-term support. Donations, fostering, and grants alone are not enough to sustain our operations. 

Our visitor model was inspired by gorilla trekking, where a limited number of permits are issued per day to minimise disturbance. This concept was introduced to HERD after learning from pioneers like Praveen Moman, whose work in gorilla ecotourism in Uganda and Rwanda left a lasting impression. Limiting group sizes ensures elephants do not become overstimulated and allows guests to have meaningful, intimate experiences. We’ve declined requests to host large groups of 40 or even 80 people, staying true to our values and the integrity of the model. 

While gorillas and elephants differ in many ways, the principle remains: conservation must be inclusive, educational, and ethical. We believe everyone, regardless of background, should have the opportunity to learn and connect with wildlife. That’s why HERD sponsors school visits from local communities, reinforcing our belief that Africa’s greatest natural capital is its wildlife.

As one of our mentors, Prof. Rob Slotow, co-authored in Integrating a “One Well-being” Approach in Elephant Conservation, conservation must also contribute to human wellbeing. Our operations aim to support local development, reduce poverty, empower women and youth, and create career paths for elephant carers. These interactions are not just about tourism, they’re about building a future where elephants and people thrive together. 

How are the carers coping?

The loss of Israel has left a deep and painful void in the HERD family. Many carers worked alongside him for over two decades, and some witnessed the devastating aftermath of the incident. The trauma of that day is still fresh, and the emotional impact continues to ripple through the team.

As Last, one of our longstanding carers, shared:
“Carers are trying hard to process Israel’s passing. The elephants seem to be holding too.”

This simple yet powerful reflection speaks volumes. The grief is shared, not only among the humans who loved and worked with Israel, but also among the elephants who sensed the loss in their own way.

While the removal of immediate danger has brought a sense of safety, the emotional healing is ongoing. Working with elephants means living in awe of their gentle nature, while never forgetting their immense power. We often watch them break branches or push over trees with ease, reminders of their strength and unpredictability.

To support our team, HERD has welcomed psychologists and introduced weekly visits from a pastor. We’re also appointing experienced senior carers to mentor younger team members, helping them grow into compassionate and resilient caregivers like Israel.

Both carers and elephants are still mourning. We honour every emotion—anger, sadness, confusion, love, and grief—and share these openly with our community. Your support reminds us that we are not alone in this journey.

Looking Ahead: The Way Forward for HERD

Our commitment to both elephants and carers remains unwavering. The events of September have deeply impacted our HERD family, reinforcing the importance of strengthening safety protocols, supporting our team, and deepening our understanding of elephant behaviour. 

We have reviewed all safety measures to ensure that our carers are equipped not only with the necessary training, but also with emotional intelligence and support. Every decision moving forward will continue to prioritise both human safety and the welfare of the herd. 

To better understand the emotional and physiological responses of our elephants, we are exploring the creation of a dedicated on-site laboratory. This facility will allow us to study stress markers in real time through faecal analysis. By combining these findings with detailed behavioural observations sheets, HERD will be able to identify subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. This research will help us adapt care strategies more effectively, deepen our understanding of herd dynamics, and strengthen our long-term welfare approach. Through this initiative, named “In Memory of Limpopo,” we aim to honour her legacy by improving our methods and minimising future risks. This will also be incorporated into the rewilding programme.

Our mission remains unchanged: to provide a safe, nurturing environment for elephants in need, while honouring the bonds between people and elephants that lie at the heart of HERD. 

Looking ahead, we are focused on establishing a long-term strategy for elephant rehabilitation through rewilding. This includes developing approaches that mitigate the chronic stress of releasing elephants, especially orphans, into the wild without a proper social structure. Our goal is to build their capacity to thrive independently, at a pace that respects their emotional and biological needs, and within a supportive social system. 

HERD will continue to lead in developing best practices for sustainable, long-term orphan elephant rehabilitation. We are committed to contributing to ethical industry standards that are credible, accredited, and endorsed by stakeholders. We know we are not perfect, but our dedication to learning through every setback and success strengthens our resolve. As a species, we share a collective responsibility to protect orphaned elephants throughout their lives. 

Elephants are under the custodianship of people, and their value extends beyond conservation, they represent a shared global responsibility. We must ensure they are protected and supported in ethical ways that enhance both humaneness and humanity. 

The Jabulani herd, rescued from a perilous situation, continues to receive care in a protected and comfortable environment that meets their biological and social needs. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, including several heartbreaking losses, we remain committed to their wellbeing for the entirety of their natural lives. 

We thank you for taking the time to read our reflections and plans. Your questions, comments, and support continue to offer us new perspectives and remind us that we are not alone in this journey. Please don’t hesitate to reach out, we learn and grow together, every day.