All Together in the Wild: A New Chapter for the Release Herd
When 13 orphaned elephants took their first steps back into the wild last June, it was a moment years in the making. The culmination of rescue, rehabilitation, and deep community care — and the beginning of a new chapter for Reteti Elephant Sanctuary.
Now, one year later, we’re thrilled to share some heartwarming news with our global Foster Family: all Foster Parents of the Release Herd elephants — Kapai, Lorian, Motumi, Hamsini, Sesia, Meibae, Olpejeta, Kikwar, Kelele, Sere, Lemorijo, and Sarara! — are now foster parents of the entire Release Herd.
That means every supporter now receives updates on every elephant in our rewilded family — from the adventurous bulls forging their independence to the tight-knit females exploring the wilds together. It’s a collective story of strength, resilience, and freedom.
ONE HERD, TWO GROUPS
Over the past year, the Release Herd has naturally divided into two groups:
The Kapai group: Kapai, Lorian, Motumi, Hamsini, Sesia, Meibae, Olpejeta, and Kikwar
The Kelele group: Kelele, Sere, Lemorijo, and Alibosa (Sarara)
Their movements have been fascinating to follow. During the dry season, the elephants roamed far — exploring as far as the Mathews Range and Ngilai Conservancy. When the rains returned, they migrated closer to the sanctuary, following the scent of green grass and fresh water.
Each step of this journey is closely tracked through GPS collars and EarthRanger monitoring, with our dedicated field teams ensuring the herd’s wellbeing every day.
REWILDING IN ACTION
Both groups have been observed mingling with wild herds — an encouraging sign that they are integrating and forming the social bonds that define elephant life in the wild. For our team and the Samburu community, these moments represent true conservation success: a living proof that orphaned elephants can once again become wild, self-sufficient beings.
We’ve also witnessed the male elephants forming their own alliances, often switching groups to find new grazing areas or companionship. Alibosa and Lemorijo, once inseparable in the nursery, are still often seen together — their bond a reminder of how enduring elephant friendships can be.
OBSERVATIONS FROM THE KEEPERS ON THE GROUND
A YEAR OF GROWTH AND DISCOVERY
The release herd has adapted beautifully to life in the wild. From drinking at newly restored water pans to sharing space with wild bulls, each sighting tells a story of resilience and instinct rediscovered. The landscape of Namunyak — lush and green after the rains — now echoes with the sounds of these once-orphaned elephants thriving on their own terms.
And for the team that raised them, every update brings both pride and emotion. Watching these elephants flourish is the reward for years of early mornings, bottle feeds, sleepless nights, and endless love.
A SHARED SUCCESS
This milestone belongs not just to Reteti, but to everyone who has stood with us — our foster parents, donors, and community partners. You’ve helped turn heartbreak into hope, and orphans into wild elephants once more.
As we celebrate one year since their release, we remain by their side — monitoring, learning, and sharing their story. Because this isn’t just their journey. It’s ours too.
