2 Orphaned Elephants Arrive in Their New Sanctuary Home and Run With Joy! (VIDEO)

It is estimated that every 15 minutes an African elephant is killed for their ivory tusks. Although illegal, the ivory trade still runs rampant across Africa, leading to the swift and tragic downfall of the wild elephant population. There is a very real chance that this majestic species will be extinct from the wild within our lifetimes if nothing is done to combat the ivory trade and protect the species.

This is where the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) comes in. Not only does DSWT advocate for an end to all poaching, but they also run an orphaned elephant rescue center and rehabilitation clinic to help save the babies who have been left in the wake of the brutal ivory trade.

Ziwa and Balguda, two of the elephants featured in this video, are rescued orphans who are being raised in the care of DSWT. These two calves began their rehabilitation at DSWT’s Nairobi Elephant Orphanage and they are now on their way to the Umani Springs rehabilitation unit in the Kibwezi forest.

Ziwa and Balguda need very specialized attention as they both struggle with health issues related to their traumatic past. The Umani Springs unit is one of DSWT’s newer rehabilitation centers and it allows the elephants more access to the lush natural surroundings.

With plenty of space to explore and more one-on-one attention from DSWT staff, these two little calves are sure to regain their strength in no time!