Loving Bonds That Shape the Jabulani Herd

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 month, we celebrate the extraordinary relationships that make our herd a family.

Sebakwe and Setombe – Best Friends

Sebakwe and Setombe share a bond built over years of trust and companionship. As two of the original elephants from the Zimbabwe herd, they’ve been by each other’s side through every change and challenge. Sebakwe, the dominant bull, exudes confidence, while Setombe’s calm and sometimes shy nature is balanced by his steady presence. Together, they offer one another comfort, security and reassurance.

Somopane and Zindoga – Mentor and Protégé

Somopane plays a guiding role for Zindoga, stepping in as a mentor and father figure within the herd. His steady confidence and experience provide a sense of safety, while Zindoga looks up to him and learns essential behaviours for life as a herd bull. Their connection is built on respect, trust and guidance, demonstrating the important role elder elephants play in shaping the next generation.

Tokwe and Lundi – Best Friends

Tokwe, the matriarch, and Lundi share a bond akin to sisters. When the herd was relocated from Zimbabwe, they leaned on each other for comfort and familiarity, forming a connection that has only deepened over time. Today, the two are inseparable in moments of relaxation, mud wallowing and care for the younger elephants. Lundi is often Tokwe’s right hand, helping nurture the little ones alongside her closest companion.

Fishan and Bubi – Best Friends

Fishan and Bubi’s bond is rooted in shared experience and mutual support. When Fishan broke his leg and could not move from the homestead, Bubi often stayed behind to keep him company. Both elephants came from the Zimbabwe herd, and their friendship has been shaped by hardship, resilience and loyalty. Fishan’s strength and calm presence provide reassurance to the more nervous Bubi, creating a quiet but unbreakable connection.

Klaserie and Khanyisa – An Allomother Bond

Klaserie has long been a nurturing presence in the herd, and her bond with Khanyisa has grown stronger over the years. The young calf is often seen swimming by Klaserie’s side, with the older elephant ensuring she is safe and supported. Their connection reflects the instinctive care elephants show to the most vulnerable in their group, highlighting the importance of allomothering in helping orphaned calves thrive.

Klaserie and Setombe – Mother and Daughter

The bond between Klaserie and her mother, Setombe, remains deeply emotional. Even as Klaserie grows into a confident and independent elephant, she continues to benefit from her mother’s guidance and support. Setombe’s steady presence has shaped Klaserie into the gentle and friendly elephant she is today, and their relationship is proof of the power of maternal influence.

Zindoga and Mambo – Best Friends

Zindoga and Mambo, born two years apart, share a playful, brotherly bond. As they mature, they are learning from the dominant bulls while enjoying the mischief of youth. Though they spar and compete at times, their interactions are full of affection and learning, reflecting the delicate balance between rivalry and camaraderie that helps young bulls develop key social skills.

Zindoga and Pisa – A Sweet Connection

Zindoga and Pisa have grown up side by side, forming a bond filled with mutual respect and companionship. Whether foraging together or spending quiet moments in the bush, they demonstrate the gentle closeness elephants can share, showing that even without the possibility of reproduction, emotional bonds can be profound and enduring.

Pisa and Timisa – Sisterly Bond

Pisa has embraced her role as an older friend to the younger orphans, Timisa and Khanyisa. She helped Timisa settle when she arrived at HERD, and over time, the two formed a playful, sister-like connection. Pisa continues to integrate and guide the younger elephants while learning patience and empathy herself, highlighting how relationships shape behaviour and confidence in herd life.

Kumbura and Khanyisa – An Allomother Bond

Kumbura’s calm, nurturing nature has made her a reliable caregiver to her fellow orphans. From guiding Timisa in 2016 to supporting Khanyisa in 2020, Kumbura has offered patience, watchful protection and contsant reassurance. Her early experiences may have shaped her maternal instincts, but her consistent care ensures that the youngest elephants always feel safe and supported within the herd.

Jabulani and the Ophans – A Companion

When it comes to fatherhood, Jabulani is still a little boyish at heart. Yet as the second dominant bull within the herd, he is an affectionate, attentive and steady presence around the younger elephants. He showed remarkable interest in Khanyisa during her rehabilitation and was the first to meet her trunk-to-trunk when her gradual integration began. He is always the first to meet new orphans. Friendly and good-natured, with an active and enquiring mind, Jabulani may not have one particular close companion, but his connection to the herd runs wide and deep.

Elephant bonds remind us that love is in the little things: support, care, and being there for one another. This weekend, take inspiration from our herd: spend time with someone who matters, share a moment of kindness, or simply let those around you know you care. Love comes in many forms, and sometimes the smallest gestures leave the biggest impact. 💚

To Gift an Elephant Adoption for Valentine’s Day, click here to choose your elephant.