Ten Orphans, Ten Years: Reteti's Next Elephant Release Herd Steps Towards the Wild
The First Steps Towards Independence
As part of Reteti Elephant Sanctuary’s dedicated protocol, elephant calves are gradually weaned at around six to seven years of age, following careful rehabilitation and preparation for life in the wild.
Selected candidates are then moved into the weaning boma, where they experience significantly reduced interaction with humans as part of their soft-release process – and it’s one of the most exciting times for everyone who is part of their journey of rewilding.
WHO IS RETETI’S NEXT ELEPHANT RELEASE HERD?
Since August 2025, we’ve been excited to identify the sanctuary’s next group of orphans to be rewilded – and they are set to follow in the courageous footsteps of Reteti’s very first release cohorts in 2019–2020, as well as the historic 2024 release herd – who have been thriving for almost two years back in the land of their birth.
Aged between 5 and 7, this group includes 10 remarkable orphans, each with an incredible story – and it’s almost as if these 10 elephants are a dedication to each year of Reteti’s existence.
From Sera to Satait, Ngilai, Nanapa, Momoi and Reteti, this brave herd also includes Kibartare, Lodosoit, Kawalash and Lewa.
How Elephant Rewilding Works
Currently entering the first stages of their next chapter in Reteti’s weaning boma, the group is ready for more space during this transition period as they continue to show remarkable progress towards greater independence.
Spending more and more time in the wild on walks to graze in the bush and relying less on keeper support, they are becoming increasingly self-sufficient – and it’s so encouraging to see them developing wild instincts and readiness for the next stage of their rehabilitation.
To facilitate this all-important chapter in their journey to full independence, while continuing to provide the best possible care, space and opportunities for Reteti’s smaller orphans to heal, bond and grow, the second Reteti sanctuary now under construction will provide the perfect platform for them to flourish and thrive as they get ready for their final step back to the wild in 2028.
This World Elephant Day,
Become Part of What Comes Next
Expanding Reteti's proven model of elephant conservation in Kenya through a second sanctuary will enable the next decade of elephant conservation – expanding rewilding efforts, reaching new communities through the Milk to Market Program, and restoring healthier rangelands for elephants and people alike.
DOUBLE THE IMPACT → Xxxx has pledged to match every donation up to US$ 125,000 – which means every contribution will go twice as far!
