In the arid landscapes of northern Kenya, the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is pioneering a new approach to caring for its herd of orphaned elephants.
Instead of relying on expensive human baby formula, the sanctuary turns to goat milk, a more nutritious and affordable alternative.
This strategy is proving beneficial for the health of the elephants and the local community’s economy.
Founded in 2016, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned and abandoned elephant calves.
Once the young elephants are strong enough to thrive independently, they are reintroduced into the wild.
Previously, the sanctuary used costly powdered baby milk to nourish the calves. However, Dr. Steven Chege, the sanctuary’s veterinary adviser, revealed that they are now experimenting with goat milk-based formulas, particularly for the youngest elephants.
This transition is crucial, as these vulnerable calves often endure significant emotional trauma after losing their mothers and being separated from their families. Maintaining their physical health during this time is a significant challenge.
Dr. Chege underscores goat milk’s nutritional benefits in ensuring these young elephants’ survival and well-being.
Goat milk is highly digestible and protein-rich, making it an ideal option for calves. Its lower risk of causing digestive issues also helps ease the calves’ transition.
Switching to goat milk could significantly reduce the sanctuary’s feeding costs for its 15-30 elephant herd.
While the full cost savings of this new feeding strategy are still being assessed—considering factors like refrigeration—the positive impact on the local community is already clear.
Local goat farmers, including many women like Liwana Lenakukunyia, have found a reliable source of income by supplying milk to the sanctuary.
For Liwana, this opportunity has brought newfound financial stability to her family. She and other farmers have gained economic empowerment by selling goat milk to the sanctuary.
The sight of young elephants eagerly drinking goat milk from feeding bottles in their dusty enclosures is a testament to the success of this innovative feeding method.
This approach fulfills the elephants’ nutritional needs and strengthens the partnership between wildlife conservation and the local community, creating a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship.
