In recent weeks, the Nairobi Nursery has witnessed a significant milestone in the lives of two remarkable elephants, Ambo and Jotto.
Having been raised at the nursery since infancy, these two beloved community members are embarking on the next phase of their journey—a relocation to the Ithumba Reintegration Unit.
This move is part of a carefully planned strategy to expose them to wild elephant herds, fostering essential social and emotional skills to pave the way for their triumphant return to the wild.
While bidding farewell to Ambo and Jotto is bittersweet for the dedicated nursery staff, there is a sense of accomplishment in seeing them progress to this stage of their lives.
The experienced Ithumba Keepers, well-versed in the unique needs and behaviors of older elephants, will oversee their transition, incorporating the influence of wild bulls to facilitate a smooth adaptation to the fantastic environment.
The decision to choose Ithumba for them is rooted in the belief that exposure to wild herds is vital for their successful integration.
The relocation posed initial challenges, particularly with Jotto’s reluctance to enter the elephant-moving truck.
However, with patience and familiarization routines, both elephants overcame their hesitation.
On the scheduled departure day, accompanied by Keeper Peter, Ambo and Jotto embarked on their translocation journey.
Surprisingly well-behaved throughout the trip, the convoy made remarkable progress, reaching Ithumba with the support of Keepers Robert and Angela.
Upon arriving at the Ithumba stockades, Ambo and Jotto were warmly welcomed by their new surroundings and the resident elephants.
Reuniting with old nursery mates, the newcomers were quickly integrated into the Ithumba-dependent orphan herd.
The initial adjustment period it included exploration, social interactions, and the introduction of new experiences, such as the midday mud bath.
The orphans’ interaction with the resident wild elephants showcased the seamless blend of the two groups.
The wild bulls, regular visitors during the dry season, displayed remarkable calmness and discipline, standing alongside the younger elephants.
These wild elephants, essentially mentors, play a crucial role in imparting essential knowledge about the wilderness, changing seasons, water sources, and the norms of elephant society.
Despite below-average rainfall in Ithumba, abundant food and browse sustains both resident and wild elephants.
The presence of ex-orphans returning after a three-month absence adds excitement, albeit with some challenges.
Overprotective ex-orphan girls from Olare’s herd, including Melia, Kalama, and Tumaren, have attempted to “kidnap” the new arrivals, requiring constant vigilance from the Keepers.
The orphans returned to their night enclosures as dusk settled, seamlessly sharing the space. The ease with which Ambo and Jotto integrated into the new environment suggests a promising future for these young elephants as they continue their journey from the nursery to the wild.
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