HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) was established in 2019, following a long journey in caring for elephants that have been displaced or orphaned due to human-elephant conflict.
2019
Orphanage Opens
2019
Orphan Rehabilitation Starts
2020
Khanyisa arrives
2021
HERD Trust formed as a PBO
Giving Orphaned Elephants a Fighting Chance
HERD Orphanage was built in 2019 in response to a growing number of young orphaned elephant calves that need a place of rehabilitation and more importantly, an existing herd that will accept them unconditionally. The Jabulani herd is now a family of 16 elephants, of which 11 are orphans and five were born to the herd over 10 years ago. In 2004, the lodge, Jabulani, was built to sustain the herd, with proceeds from tourism assisting with the rescue herd’s care and management. In 2021 a decision was made to move the Jabulani herd and HERD Homestead operations, together with HERD Orphanage, under the umbrella of HERD Trust which is a registered PBO. This allows for public funding to ensure the well-being of all the elephants.
Making a Difference
HERD Trust commits to being active within our local communities through education and development opportunities, to help empower the people living closest to us and to share the value of protecting elephants. HERD is also active through our online communities, bringing a global audience together to educate more people about the elephant species and vital conservation efforts.
Our Incredible Team
Our “Human Herd” forms an essential part of every orphaned elephant’s unique journey to recovery. This highly experienced team of dedicated, loyal elephant carers provides each baby elephant with the absolute best round-the-clock support.
Help Save Our Vulnerable Gentle Giants
We rely on incredible people like you to keep us going. Every cent counts, and no contribution is too small. HERD relies on public funding to cover the operational costs to care for and support elephant orphans and the rescued herd, so we really appreciate your support.
Elephant Tales Blog
Want to hear the latest and greatest stories about what the elephants are up to? No two days are the same, and they always amaze us with their distinctive personalities and acceptance of one another. Follow us this way for all the latest stories of what’s happening at HERD.
