For the first time in eight years, Kenya’s Sheldrick Wildlife Trust orphan herd celebrated a newborn

For the first time in eight years, Kenya’s Sheldrick Wildlife Trust orphan herd celebrated a newborn — and the moment was pure magic.
Melia, once a helpless orphan herself, had just given birth. At first, she seemed unsure, staring at the tiny calf still wrapped in its placenta. Then the older females rushed in, guiding the newborn to stand and helping Melia discover her instincts. Slowly, she learned to comfort, guide, and feed her baby.

The calf was named Milo, meaning “beloved”—a symbol of survival, care, and the unbreakable bond within the herd.

At first, she seemed unsure, staring at her newborn in confusion. But the herd’s matriarchs quickly stepped in — Loijuk gently lifted the baby to his feet, guiding Melia through her first moments as a mother. Slowly, Melia’s instincts took over, and she embraced her calf, helping him nurse for the first time.

His birth was more than a new life; it was proof of healing, love, and the dedication of SWT towards these orphans.

Inspired by the incredible work of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
They dedicate their lives to rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting orphaned elephants and other wildlife.