A female calf estimated to have been born in April 1999, this tiny female was only 2 weeks old when she was orphaned.She comes from the Il Ngwezi Group Ranch in Laikipia district, Northern Kenya, an area belonging to the Samburu tribe who have become conservation conscious and protect their wildlife for the benefit of visitors to their beautiful little self catering Lodge, which is a popular tourist destination. Revenue derived from tourism to the area benefits the community directly. Ilingwezi was rescued by the tribesmen, who herd an elephant commotion during the night and went out the next day to investigate. They found this tiny calf in a deep erosion gulley, signs of the other elephants' struggle to free her during the night very evident. She was unharmed, and flown to Nairobi that afternoon, arriving in good condition, one of the lucky few who has never needed the attentions of a Vet.
Ilingwezi's Story
The Il Ngwezi Group Ranch tribesmen were concerned about the future of "their" little elephant, so in the interests of public relations, they were flown to Nairobi to satisfy themselves that she was in good hands. They arrived, some dressed in tribal regalia, and spent the day with the Nursery elephants, thoroughly enjoying the experience. Daphne Sheldrick promised them that when their elephant left the Nursery to join the older orphans in Tsavo, they would be taken there to see her again. This promise was fulfilled in February 2001 when the man who actually rescued Ilingwezi, plus the Chief and Elders of the tribe joined Kenya Wildlife Service dignitaries and a Minister in the Office of the President to spend time with all the Tsavo orphans. Surrounded by about 25 orphaned elephants of all sizes, it was an experience none of them will ever forget, particularly as one of our Big Boys, Dika, now independent, turned up unexpectedly, and greeted the people gently, towering over them.
Adopt Ilingwezi for yourself or as a gift for a loved one.
Important Note: Thank you for adopting and being part of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust family. It is important to note that your donation will help any orphan in need. Our orphans will need more than one adoptive parent.
Adopt Ilingwezi for yourself or as a gift for a loved one.
Important Note: Thank you for adopting and being part of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust family. It is important to note that your donation will help any orphan in need. Our orphans will need more than one adoptive parent.
Current age
20 years old
Gender
Female
Rescued date
30 April 1999
Rescue Location
Laikipia, Il Ngwezi Group Ranch
Date of Birth (approximate)
1 April 1999
Reason Orphaned
Found in erosion gulley
Age at Rescue
0 months old (approx)
Current Location
Living Wild
Ilingwezi's featured photos
Our digital adoption programme includes the following:
Personalised adoption certificate.
Monthly email update on your orphan and the project.
Monthly water colour by Angela Sheldrick.
Access to special content; latest Keepers' Diaries, videos and photos
Give Ilingwezi the gift of life by adopting today.