It took 28 years of trial and error before Daphne Sheldrick discovered the right formula in her effort to create an Elephant milk substitute for the infant orphans the Trust rescues and raises until they are reintroduced to the African wild. Because of such determination, 67 of these hand-reared, pachyderms have been given a second chance of life and freedom. We have witnessed first hand the extraordinary dedication with which the Trust and its keepers care for these traumatized babies. Regardless if orphaned because of Ivory poaching, falling into wells or mineshafts or because of human / animal conflicts, each survivor successfully raised to adulthood is a major triumph. Far too many of these infants succumb to grief and illness for they are exceedingly fragile. As mentioned on the Trust's website:

www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org

"The hand-rearing of orphaned elephants is an emotional roller-coaster for those involved, for tragedy stalks success and can strike unexpectedly at any moment."

The Foundation is currently fostering several of these tiny victims through the "Fostering Program", one of the Trust's many undertakings, which also include Conservation, the Desnaring Project and Community Outreach amongst others. An Ele Orphan can be fostered for as little as $50 a year. The Foster Parent receives a certificate, profile, photograph and regular email updates on the progress of his or her chosen orphan. A wonderful gift idea for any friend of the animal world. Much more information is available on the Trust's website. To view a Video Clip of


click on the YouTube player below