An Unexpected Meeting Between Baby Orphan Elephant, Phabeni & Setombe and Klaserie

by Adine Roode | herd.org.za/bl...
By now Phabeni has met and spent time with older elephants, Jabulani, Lundi, Somopane and Sebakwe. The introduction programme is going well and you can see how Phabeni flourishes during the time he spends with the elephants. So much so, that it feels like we can and perhaps should move faster, as it is going extremely well. But, I need to remind myself, that Rome wasn’t built in a day and if things go wrong, you can’t undo it, so best be patient.
Tigere and I decided to introduce two more elephants. Mother and daughter. Setombe and Klaserie.
Over the years, Setombe has been in the hierarchy of the bulls, and is the dominant female. She is the oldest elephant, though not the matriarch. She has always adored her daughter, Klaserie. She is head of discipline in the herd, I often say. Setombe and Klaserie are always curious, but also careful and alert to everything, especially anything new to them.
We let Tokwe, Bubi and the younger females feed close-by in the field outside the homestead, with Fishan, Mambo and Zindoga, while Setombe and Klaserie joined the others in the homestead. Lundi doesn’t need to be invited anymore and rushes over to Phabeni in the mornings.
On this morning, she waited for Phabeni while Stavros and Phabeni walked over from the orphanage. Phabeni walked straight to Lundi and she moved her leg forward so he could suckle. The calf lifted his mouth and trunk upwards, bending his hind legs and lowering his rear to the ground, suckling.
As Setombe entered the homestead and came closer, Lundi moved away and Setombe grabbed bana grass blades. Phabeni stayed with Lundi, trying to suckle, while Jabulani swung his trunk towards Setombe, then to Klaserie, claiming his bana grass territory, or perhaps to also say, I am here with Lundi.
Sebakwe and Somopane moved in with that distinct bull aura, intensity and focus, not in a rush to join the group or baby. Jabulani seemed disturbed by everyone joining him, as it reduced his share of the bana grass. As Sebakwe entered, Jabulani moved in between Klaserie and Setombe to see what he could feed on.
Phabeni walked up to Setombe and looked for a teat, but the female was not comfortable yet and moved away, a bit uncertain. Phabeni moved in to greet me, before moving back towards Setombe, offering them a moment to smell one another. Then he moved to Klaserie, who was not ready for him to suckle. As she turned slightly, he turned around and decided to take another chance with Setombe, who was ready for him and moved her leg forward, opening her ‘milk gland’ to him. She moved away, not because of Phabeni, but because Somopane moved in between Setombe and Klaserie.
Klaserie and Setombe were secreting, and showed typical female behaviour, moving backward towards Phabeni, Lundi, the bulls, and the bana grass. Even Jabulani was secreting, but perhaps because of the excitement among the females. Phabeni walked over to Somopane, slipped underneath him, and met up with Lundi to suckle. Some special moments between Phabeni and Lundi were shared and I wondered if he was perhaps irritated by the presence of the other elephants, as his focus was to be with Lundi.
Finally, things calmed down among all the elephants. Phabeni was with Klaserie and although she tried to do the right thing, she was very uncomfortable and didn’t have a clue about how a baby should suckle from her. Setombe, always the overprotective mother, came to support her.
I think it was somewhere then that Phabeni and Setombe found each other. Setombe was standing with her leg stretched forward to let the little bull suckle, her head lifted, mouth open as if breathing now through her mouth and not her trunk or holding her breath to not let the moment go by. She was swinging her trunk and flapping her ears. It wasn’t hot. She wasn't doing this to cool down. She stayed put, even as Klaserie tried to reach baby Phabeni, from her other side. Time stood still for Setombe as she let Phabeni suckle. Lundi waited for Phabeni, with her rear towards Setombe.
Klaserie was getting impatient. She was unable to get closer. She put her front heel into the ground, stretching her front leg. She wanted her turn too. But this was her mother's moment.
It was incredible to witness and an event that was so unexpected. Never did we think that Setombe would take to a new orphan in this way. Setombe followed Phabeni everywhere, even reversing to catch up to him. Setombe has never welcomed new babies like this, and has always been purely hyper-focused on her own daughter in terms of bonding and protecting. She might discipline other young elephants, but not take them in as her own. This was a window to a new world for us. One that we were so excited to continue looking through.
Just when you think you know someone, they turn around and surprise you.
Well done, Setombe!

[@kirri1312]

Watching such huge creatures being so careful of the little one is heartwarming ❤️🇦🇺

[@thefairyqueen369]

Its so true I am always amazed at this, knowing their strength and power and yet they never bump into the little ones the same as they were with Khaniysa, they know exactly where they are at any given time with their trunks and tails and their senses......sooooo cool and endearing!

[@kirri1312]

@@thefairyqueen369 Absolutely amazing!!

[@ShedaKhan-m8x]

Yes, the same with Khanyisa.

[@wehaveasituation]

How amazing that while African elephants can't be trained, these rescued beauties understand the benevolence of the humans and accept and appeciate them.

[@wisecoconut5]

I am in awe of elephant sensitivity. Even if they can't see the little one, they know he is very close, and they step so carefully and gently. They are so emotional too, Listening to their rumbles and purrs, I get the impression they are also gossiping.😊

[@OublietteTight]

Wish we could speak elephant.

[@arcticgoddess]

I said that on the blog!! Totally!! 😅

[@DianaBamaRN]

I think they are comforting Phabeni and also discussing him amongst themselves rather pridefully “Look what gorgeous eyes he has. And that is the absolutely cutest trunk I have ever laid my eyes on”. “He’s very intelligent and brave! He knew exactly which of us to approach and how!” “I believe Phabeni has the big guys wrapped around his little tail! Already!”

[@wisecoconut5]

@@DianaBamaRN 😄😄😄😄

[@DianaBamaRN]

@@OublietteTight Have you checked out Elephant Ethogram and Elephant Voices? A ton of information about elephant communication! Invaluable resource!

[@alecbrown66]

That fantastic moment when every adult swing into the protective circle for the little calf. Just like a huge group hug, and saying welcome to the family, you are safe with us. It makes you heart sing

[@macca777]

wait until you see the real welcome to the family. Did you see Khanyisa's lovely welcome? At first I thought they were charging her lol. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aKS8eoeFfqeFrKc&ab_channel=HERDElephantOrphanageSouthAfrica this HERD's link to her greeting.

[@JulieRushworth]

Phabeni ls loved very very much, Lundi is your new Mama for sure, beautiful interactions mostly, the way these beauties move to protect our Boy brings tears to the eyes. Much love to one and all, little extra for Phabeni 🩵💙🩵

[@CarolAbhayaratna]

What love a mother has for her baby

[@KailashKuanr-xc2ir]

😮😮

[@hell666-59]

I love how their first instinct is to protect the little one... beautiful 🥰

[@pamb2734]

To watch these gentle giants show instant protection and care for this tiny boy is absolutely amazing to see!

[@sstarkey1695]

Lindi is so sweet and careful with Phabeni. Very precious, indeed.

[@francescaa8331]

Lundi is such a good mom. They are all keeping the baby safe. He is so tiny and vulnerable. So sweet.

[@kimcrofoot8517]

Phabeni's confidence with the herd is growing by leaps and bounds! He has a wonderful family.

[@debbie995]

You are all so wonderful! Thank you for the love and care you put into this incredible herd ❤🐘

[@herdelephantorphanage]

You are so kind. Thank you tremendously ✨

[@GuantanamoBayBarbie3]

Thank you so much for your financial support. ❤❤ ❤ And gratitude for all of you that share! Every little bit helps.

[@바오바오-k3c]

코끼리를 사랑하는 당신의 친절에 감사드립니다❤

[@herdelephantorphanage]

지원해 주셔서 감사합니다!@@바오바오-k3c

[@LibertySneeden]

❤❤❤ Thanks for your donation. South African Herd followers are more grateful than you could ever know for valuable dollars. ❤❤❤

[@michelemason1663]

I can almost hear Setombe saying OMG he is is so adorable I want him for myself….😊

[@rathnam.a]

How selfless these gentle giants are. 😊Their hearts are bigger than them. So relaxing to watch them. Phabeni is now the pampered baby of the Herd. So lovely.

[@cindyainsworth7570]

He’s their baby now!! Can’t wait for him to join the whole herd.

[@steventrompeter9883]

The quiet Setombe's motherly instinct returns, what a pleasant surprise. Looks like Lundy will have plenty of help. So heartwarming. 🥰

[@cattailer1077]

Okay. I admit it. When Setombe encouraged Baby P to suckle, tears popped out of my eyes🫢! These baby introductions are exciting and wonderful but they're kinda stressful too. I find myself sitting on the edge of my chair! So so happy our beautiful Herd is opening their hearts to Phabeni 💖💖💖. We knew they would. Great work Adine and our amazing Carers!

[@mariapetras2654]

Maybe second your beautiful words ?!🌟

[@mariapetras2654]

May I

[@susanmorris5520]

I absolutely agree with your comment cause I didn’t think there was gonna be a problem after the acceptance of Khanysia. This elephant Herd definitely has a lot of family love for each other and their young too.❤️🥰🐘👏🏻👏🏻

[@ManjushaManjusha-ps2fm]

😅😢🎉😂❤​@@mariapetras2654

[@Marionpm1]

Lundi is a beautiful Soul. What she expresses to the babies Orphens when they come. Motherhood!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤. Blessings 🎉

[@Evon-q7z]

Yes she is just so beautiful 😊😅

[@laurawilliams7407]

When you see little Phabeni next to the herd, it simply serves to show how very tiny and vulnerable he is. It’s both adorable and amazing to see these gentle giants move to love and support this baby boy - all while gently stepping around him to ensure his safety. They’re great aunties and uncles. ❤❤❤

[@ebillie1181]

The back up security is amazing! Sweet baby is where he left off with his mom...still needing the comfort and care. All the Bigs around the little tyke as gentle as butterflies.💖

[@tennissir1986]

It’s astonishing how the orphanage “engineers” every detail - to eventually get the orphans permanently back into the herd. From the timing. Choosing which elephants to come out. They know the personalities and temperament of each elephant. The placement of the food for them to eat, etc. Elephant whisperers truly.

[@CarmenDL1]

Wow, now that was amazing! Lundi is patient to let little Phabeni go to Setombe who desires to get right in there to be an allomother! Phabeni truly likes and feels safe with Setombe.I was so surprised how much! Makes me wonder who will end up being the main Momma.This is just wonderful to see

[@ginangan8892]

Elephants should teach the world what is unconditional love,Klasseri as usually such a kind nanny,proud of Satombe

[@SandraAlexander-ib3bw]

They always watch the 😮young babies 13:53

[@priscillawatson7049]

so nice to see klasieri cuddling phabeni...lovely

[@suehancey8355]

I never realized what an intricate process it is to introduce a new baby into a herd, before watching your videos. Literally amazing.🥰

[@juliesong4123]

So many rumbles! No doubt they love having a baby around! Klassire can barely contain her excitement on having a little brother.You have an amazing family Phabeni who love you!💕🐘

[@alecbrown66]

After Phabeni being found alone and deserted, it just shows how Aline and her staff not only look after the physical but also deeply emotional needs of their rescue orphans.

[@brendamcmanus9438]

They are truly amazing 🐘🐘

[@amber40494]

Yes, they are wonderful guardians!❤

[@embreis2257]

thank god we now know elephants need much more than just care for their physical needs

[@saralakrishnamurthy]

Love yr videos

[@saralakrishnamurthy]

Is Phabeni a albino?

[@Sommerpunkte]

Danke!

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Wow! Thank you so much for your generosity ❤️

[@바오바오-k3c]

코끼리를 사랑하는 당신의 친절에 감사드립니다❤

[@kitc1031]

I think Phabeni will be the son Setombe never had! 💞 I was sitting on the edge of my seat many times. Best Wishes to the elephants, Adine & carers!

[@debrahouston2884]

Yes...think the same. All the more amazing -- she has never been open to mothering any but her own biological babies! BRAVO, Setombe!

[@jangsy33]

Phabeni smoothly charmed his way to the hearts of females, who feel compelled to nurture him! 💞Lundi’s gentle movements around Phabeni says so much!

[@NakaidaBeauzec]

Wow i could watch them all day and get no work done lol.

[@jolynnhill8502]

This herd is so amazing! Giants being so tender with that baby bull. Beautiful ❤

[@maryt2887]

I’m so happy that Setombe has allowed Phabeni to suckle. She will be a great support for him. Klaserie certainly is curious and perhaps a little jealous? It’s amazing to see how the grown-ups tread carefully around the baby and form protective circles.

[@gr8fuldeb699]

It really looks like Phabeni has his new family. Im so happy for him. Lundi is so amazing with her open arms welcoming him along with Setombe. That was a treat to see that!!!! There always is so much love in these videos. From the elephants to the humans just unconditional love. It brings such joy to my day. Thank you.

[@karenplath_]

When up against the giant mature ellies do you then understand how tiny and vulnerable Phabeni is. The acceptance is so precious. ❤

[@GirishKumarBhat]

😊

[@malousmom9231]

He’s so small-squeeee-and the adults are so so gentle!!! So happy that Phabeni has a herd!!!

[@earthmama5659]

This is a beautiful sight indeed! The acceptance of little Phabeni.❤️

[@ladolcevita9082]

Tiny Phabeni..you are the sweetest little ellie 🐘❤

[@katalac]

Thanks!

[@mortalclown3812]

🩵🐘🍼🌿🦋🌍🇸🇿

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Amazing! Thank you for your support 💖🐘

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Wow! How immensely kind of you! Thank you so much ❤️🐘

[@kp8381]

Lovely

[@lorinadenewhite]

God bless you!!!!!!

[@cemarie5471]

My morning started out a lil teary eyed (something personal) And now I am smiling These loving ellies have brought a ray of sunshine to me I looove them all so much and I truly love you all humans at HERD

[@AgnesKortvelyesi]

Big hugs to you!😊

[@cemarie5471]

Thank you so much❤❤

[@janparish7895]

So glad you are smiling now 💖🙏

[@AgnesKortvelyesi]

@@cemarie5471 My pleasure.🙋‍♀️

[@AgnesKortvelyesi]

@@cemarie5471 My pleasure!🙋‍♀️

[@deborahnorthover5304]

What a beautiful thing to watch, Lundi was so calm when Phabeni suckled on Setombe, and she was so loving and caring towards Phabeni when she allowed him to suckle from her. Wow, can’t wait to see Tokwes’ introduction!

[@allisoncompeaux3981]

Setombe wants that little boy! We have all gotten to know Lundi through her care for Khanyisa. Maybe now we will get to know Setombe better through her love for Phabeni. This is an extremely interesting dynamic unfolding within the herd. Also looking forward to how the herd raises a bull calf, and how the big bulls play a role in raising him. And Khanyisa's reaction?? Will she want to play with him? She is so friendly and confident, so hoping she will. This is almost like watching a wonderful tv series where we can't wait for the next episode 😊.

[@LibertySneeden]

We will, absolutely. Already we can relate to her more. Setombe is a darling.❤❤❤

[@theresatheron3838]

Oh man, I wish I could give Setombe a big hug for being so patient with little Phabeni. Big sister is getting a little jealous, haha

[@peggysmith5202]

Yes. I thought the same!! LOL

[@AgnesKortvelyesi]

Do you mean Klaserie?

[@Quackerjacks438]

I thought I was the only one who thought that.

[@silntbtrfly]

No I was thinking that also. Didn't want anything to happen to the baby.

[@MicaOShea-oe7ir]

I don't think Klaserie is jealous! She has shown great allomother intentions towards Phabeni, just as she did towards Khanyisa, just as Adine said towards the beginning of the video. Klaserie is always caring towards Khanyisa and Phabeni and respectful towards her mother and that never changes. If Setombe is between Klaserie and Phabeni she just passes her trunk under her mother to check on him. Zero fuss.

[@crystalheart9]

Oh my goodness, seeing how tiny Phabeni is next to the adult elephants and how careful they are around him is so sweet.🐘💖

[@The_Golden_Imp]

Hello to HERD from USA!!!! Always warms my heart to see your videos, right now there is not a dry eye in our entire family, seeing the herd adopting little Phabeni so sweetly!!

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Such a blessing to witness this together 🐘 thank you for watching

[@mortalclown3812]

😂 Same here in LA. Love seeing Klaserie's protection mode while her trunk is seeking out the new smell of Phabeni. Amazing video 😂❤

[@jangsy33]

All this skin to skin is so healing for Phabeni!...soothing the trauma of the past!😇

[@suzymatwetwe]

I love the way Phabeni is blissfully unaware of the stir he's causing 😂.

[@JillChristyGroup]

Boys and men are most often unaware of the stir they cause! lol

[@abigailmurray4248]

What a Beautiful Day for all involved, baby elephant, Momma elephant, allo mommas, bulls and human carers.!!!!!!

[@tristtags8108]

So beautiful to see them take in Phabeni, I think Setombe wants to be his mother so precious to see her so gentle and loving and wants to be around him. Klaserie is so precious to see a new baby brother this is so amazing and Adine and the carers are awesome. Can't wait for Phabeni to go with the herd for a a walk in the bush when he can explore with his new family ❤❤❤❤🐘🐘🐘🐘 love you all from Canada 🇨🇦

[@jangsy33]

These orphan babies are a blessing to the adult females, as a path to live a full life expressing their nurturing instinct.

[@inasorensen4452]

Phabeni will never feel alone again !A wonderful family !

[@Dahlias7]

Phabeni is a brave little baby bull, I love how every so often he comes to Stavos for reassurance.❤

[@Eachone1teachone1]

You could feel the excitement and tension. Stompane wants the baby to herself. Salutes to all who made this decision and protect ed all ❤

[@Nietzsky]

A very very special herd

[@michellesartori6695]

I concur with all the previous commenters in how beautiful this mornings video is, at least its early morning here in Australia and a wonderful way to start the day, but seeing how Klaserie was "being too rough" with Phabeni's ears made me laugh. It was so funny to watch as was seeing Klaserie's trunk going undsr her mother AND everywhere else to get to him! I also laughed seeing Phabeni's little back legs knotted together when he was very comfortable around the other elephants. I wish that I could physically stand next to them and smell them also, but Ill settle for 2nd best and watch them from here! Phabeni is SO tiny and the adult elephants take SUCH a lot of care with making sure that they don't tread on him! Very precious indeed! Thank you HERD!

[@kristenmfclark1966]

Wow - what a delight to witness all this interaction, emotions, and amazing roles each Ellie plays in the herd. Klaserie is so much like the big sister when mom brings home the new baby from the hospital. Intrigued and protective, but also a bit jealous (?) that mom’s attention is on someone new. And all those rumbles! My favorite part. The boys are all so steady and chill and ready to take on the role of role-model and peacekeeper. I also love what a little climber Phabeni is. It is especially interesting to see how they use their tails to feel Phabeni, too. What fun! Thank you for sharing this with us!

[@susanfeneley]

Setombe and Klaserie will have plenty to think about today...also lots to talk about with the rest of the herd. Klaserie has always had her Mom; kind of change to have to share her, but she's a sweetheart so all will work out. Such a big (and wonderful) surprise from Setombe...out of the blue!!🐘🍼🩵💞🫶🐦🇺🇸

[@brendamcmanus9438]

This is amazing 💙🩵💚 Lundi & Setombe…wow, we are so blessed to see Phabeni’s family growing, one Ellie at a time. Thank you Adine, Tigere & all the Carers 💙🩵💚💜🩷❤️ For inviting us to see this very special Jabulani Family moment Warmest regards Fr 🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@janparish7895]

Agreed Susan. What a moment! 🙏

[@loratoodirile1739]

​@@brendamcmanus9438🎉😅😊😂❤❤ ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😢😢😢😢😢😢😮😢😢😢I 😢😢the 😢😢😢I 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😢I will be able 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂❤😂🎉

[@GB-he1zc]

Phaby is so, so small and brave amongst these big, but gentle Ellies, who are showing interest, care, love and protection. They never stop to impress me and how much humans could lean from them. ❤❤❤😊😊😊

[@cemarie5471]

❤❤❤

[@deborjhablackwell6162]

That Setombe allowed him to suckle! Monumental! ❤❤❤ All that rumbling. I so wish I knew what they were saying.

[@mortalclown3812]

It's become one of my favorite sounds in the world. 🇸🇿🌍🌿🦋🐘🍼🙏🩵

[@AgnesKortvelyesi]

​@@mortalclown3812Same!😊

[@meraaicat]

A bit like giant cats purring ❤

[@brendamcmanus9438]

Wow…Setombe too 💙💚🐘💚💙

[@alwaysfourfun1671]

Must be good to Phabeni's mental development to see himself so accepted by the HERD, with all the females going into fully protective mode by surrounding him and constantly comforting him by seeking the connection with their trunks. A wonderful sight. What a movie!!! Thanks, as always.

[@Julianthe1970]

It's wonderful to see how fascinated Klaserie is about Phabeni, constantly touching him and taking the protective stance. One can almost hear her say, "he's so little and cute!"

[@donnievance1942]

The protective moment of elephants turning their rears towards babies in order to face outward against possible threats explains why even juvenile elephants back up to each other as a show of affection and friendliness. It's saying, "I will protect and care for you."

[@melodiefrances3898]

And they have total spatial awareness when they do it. They know exactly where the little one is ❤❤❤

[@vivianaiacomelli3080]

Verissimo!

[@GrumpyCatGranny18]

Think how different many human mothers are who sadly fail to work with such care to protect and guard over little ones. It makes me admire the instincts God put into these amazing elephants.❤

[@vivianaiacomelli3080]

@@GrumpyCatGranny18 👌👍👋

[@tennissir1986]

@@GrumpyCatGranny18I’m not sure it’s god - it may be techniques for survival developed over millions of years. In human’s - bad mothering may be due to a lack of belief in god.

[@ronascott4449]

He's getting all the love! Humans could learn a lot from these magnificent creatures 🐘.

[@susycavaleiro1265]

I watched a short video of the 4 cheetahs earlier on. The ranger said that Adine hand reared them. My goodness,Adine ,you're a Mommy to a lot of babies. You definitely were born for this job. My respect .👍👍🐆🐆🦏🦏🐘🐘🐕🐕👏👏👏💖💖💖💖💖

[@LibertySneeden]

WOW, that is amazing. Would love to watch that. Would you be so kind as to post the link please?

[@patwats8860]

Four cheetahs? Adine IS amazing.

[@shotgunbettygaming]

This genuinely brought tears to my eyes. It makes me wonder if Setombe lost a boy long ago. Klaserie looks a little jealous but with Love in her heart, this is going to be wonderful to watch develop!!

[@brendamcmanus9438]

This is one of the most amazing moments on the HERD Channel. Adine, Tigere, & all the Carers, thank you soo much for sharing this very special Jabulani family moment. Warmest regards Fr 🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@바오바오-k3c]

코끼리를 사랑하는 당신의 친절에 감사드립니다❤

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Thank you for donating, we are grateful for your kindness and loyal support.

[@lindaclark1406]

We can now see how fragile and small these baby elephants are and the wonderful care they receive to grow. The extreme knowledge and love it takes for the trust. This is truly a lovely video to watch, over my cup of coffee this morning, in Florida. Thanks so much. 💕🇺🇸🌴🌺💗❤️

[@patcahill2929]

Klasserie has the best trunk. Very curious girl!

[@Sharon-yc8if]

I was thinking the same thing.

[@MitulSheikh-c4x]

😢 যে যে

[@leoradouglas1058]

Love love love elephants

[@miri-818]

It's breathtaking! Little Phabeni brings new dynamics into herds relationships. It's like elephants love dance❤🐘🧡💛

[@AgnesKortvelyesi]

How beautifully said!❤

[@cemarie5471]

Awww I so agree I love your description "Elephant Dance" Beautiful wordings

[@miri-818]

❤it's how they move, and their trunks, it's all so graceful...

[@HelenCamile63]

“Elephants love dance” Perfect description. ❤

[@PMC47]

So much love being poured on to Phabeni! What I find extremely fascinating is there are barely any moments in the entire visit where there isnt a defensive ring protecting him. Greetings from Canada! 🇨🇦

[@jbenko13]

Setombe inviting Phabeni to suckle will now live rent-free in my mind. Having watched your videos for years it was wonderfully extraordinary! 🥰 The little one doesn't realize how special he is 💜

[@HettiedeKorteDiplomaat]

Amazing how protective they are around the baby. Right away.

[@cbviau1332]

It never ceases to amaze me how you all can tell these elephants apart. What an awe inspiring family. Thank you for sharing memories with us.

[@herdelephantorphanage]

We spend so much time with them that they really are like family members and look so distinct to us. Telling them apart from behind though is difficult 😂

[@GuantanamoBayBarbie3]

​@herdelephantorphanage All bums look alike! 😂 Butt (pun intended) some have more tail hair than others. We love you ALL. Thank you so much for all you do to care for this extraordinary HERD. So much love! ❤️🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘❤️

[@Lwah0812]

Look on their playlists, they have a video…I believe on each, that details markings to tell them apart. For instance Lundi’s right ear you’ll notice it has a little part that that has some missing on each side, there are other things as well. Some them it’s their tusks, tail hairs, lumps and bumps. I’ll have to go watch them again. I have a hard time telling the majority apart. I had a list that I made but lost it. Very interesting videos.

[@pyewacket7883]

Dear Herd, Beautiful. Thank you

[@Sillydk-ot6dk]

This is one of the best videos I have ever seen of the herd. So much love, rumbles and protection from all the big ellies. Setombe really bonded with the little man, it was lovly and heartwarming to see. Much love from Denmark. Copenhagen Zoo just welcomed a newborn calf last night.

[@AgnesKortvelyesi]

Wow! Really? Congrats! Wish good health and long life for the baby!😍🤩🤘👍🙏👶🐘🌻🌷🍀🥂

[@carolenolan8460]

Amazing...looks like he's right into the Herd...no problem. How welcoming they all are and protective!!

[@mortalclown3812]

Amazing. Setombe's gentleness was everything to see. All of them were wonderful. Those rumbles, indeed. Thank you for this long video.

[@annsmarpat9500]

This is for Setombe. What a good girl❤ Great Video!!! Thank you for sharing these special moments!

[@brendamcmanus9438]

🩷💜❤️

[@바오바오-k3c]

코끼리를 사랑하는 당신의 친절에 감사드립니다❤

[@LibertySneeden]

Appreciation for your kindness and generosity. From a South African Herd lover. ❤❤❤

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Aah, thank you for donating, we are grateful for your kindness and loyal support.

[@lisasmith4189]

Baby Phabeni is so tiny compared to the adults by comparison!! He's the most precious animal ever!! ❤❤❤❤ Love all of you at HERD!

[@DianaBamaRN]

This is the difference between this channel and any other elephant channel that I know of…Adine’s play by play narration explaining the meaning/purpose of the elephants behaviors/movements/ etc. I have learned so much from this channel exactly because of that! I have read a lot of books written by elephant experts, watched thousands of videos about elephants but here is where I can actually see their behaviors in play. It ties everything together! Thank you so very much HERD!!!

[@angelciunci5409]

😊😊😊

[@paddyjenkins8458]

Phabeni has no idea how blessed she is to have landed up at Herd, her future could have been so different. Thank you Herd for your kindness and love for these majestic animals

[@janparish7895]

Phabeni is a bull 😉🙏

[@atholmackie668]

HE BABY BOY

[@robbiwouters]

With big strides, this little man takes his place in the heart of the herd ❤️ 😊

[@gailwoloz111]

As I grow very fond of Phabeni, I miss seeing Khanyisa and always wonder where she is during these times. Huge applause for your love and devotion to these beautiful elephants. Thank you for sharing - I'm always learning from watching! Big hugs to all!

[@kp8381]

I miss her too, but she's part of the big herd now and out foraging, swimming, and loving her life. Will be interesting to watch when she gets to meet her baby brother up close and personal. 🐘🩷🐘🩵

[@avs6372]

I love that after current videos my you tube plays random continuous videos from the past ( TV Screen). I'm usually doing other things but Khanyisa history streams on my screen. I wear headset for TV due to my late night hours to not disturb neighbors. Therefore I see videos I had not seen in 2021. Khanyisa details never get old. ❤️

[@ShedaKhan-m8x]

Yes, I miss seeing Khanyisa.

[@samporter2146]

The rumbles are incredible. So much talking going on. And a ballet of elly body language! Fascinating, thankyou so much for this.❤

[@ts1931]

Wow it's wonderful seeing how these elephants take in this little guy! How they all protect him is a wonder to behold!!

[@newearthhope]

How exciting to see this! That little elephant is going to be a favorite with the herd! ❤

[@herbertschnipsel3897]

Ich freue mich für Setombe das sie sich in Phabeni verliebt hat und er sie auch zu mögen scheint. Setombe kommt mir manchmal ein bisschen reserviert vor und der Kleine hilft ihr mal aus sich heraus zu kommen. 💕💕🥰🥰 Lund du hast da eine ernsthafte Konkurrenz, wobei alles seine Mütter sein werden die ihn mit Liebe überschütten!

[@Faelani38]

I am glad it is going well for the little bull. I am glad you were able to rescue him.

[@dongriffith3677]

It is shocking sometimes to see just how small Phabeni is.

[@michelemason1663]

Thank you to everyone there at Herd for all the hard work you do.😊

[@바오바오-k3c]

코끼리를 사랑하는 당신의 친절에 감사드립니다❤

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Thank you for donating, we are grateful for your support.

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Thank you for donating, we are grateful for your kindness.

[@vblackwell3347]

It must be true that ellies never forget. They all always seem to have immediate empathy w/ the newest orphan & are quite willing to extend the "You welcome to your new family." ❤😊

[@jamiecasey9800]

Little Phabeni amongst the all the Giants is breathtaking and so Heart felt. This Herd is another true example of what Makes Elephants so adored. To all the carer's and keepers watching over these treasures in Africa thank you for all you do. I've heard that it is the Elephants that pick out whos qualified to be a carer. That they can read your ❤. God Bless Adine and all She does for all the treasures in Africa.

[@WaterfallFW]

The swaying trunks and tails, rumbles, suckling, protecting, trunk touches, smelling, crossed legs and even the ear tweak. Amazing and I’m over stimulated myself. ❤ Phabeni. More videos please.

[@bettyderoo5984]

Al that rumbles, big elephant meeting. I sit here with a big smile, so proud of the big 6 and especial little Phabeni he is not afraid or impressed at all.And next to the big boddies looks so tiny. Its intressting to see the video a view times.

[@arellerodejale7458]

Yeah, he looks so tiny, yet he's already hundreds of pounds!!! Mind blowing 😅!!

[@evangeline3152]

What a surprise to see Setombe fall in love with a baby! Klaserie was obviously surprised too. She was so excited when Phabeni began suckling her mother. I loved the constant rumbling from them today. It’s going to be really interesting to watch Tokwe meet Phabeni. I don’t know how you got him away from Setombe but I think Tokwe will not want to give him back. Little Phabeni will be well taken care of in the herd.

[@angelraburn4401]

Oh how our hearts are full as the little one gets to spend time with the herd. Such a beautiful time. So happy. I am in awe of them and of all at HERD. My heart is happy ❤

[@lisa-r4w]

I'm a new subscriber from the U.S . I love watching your videos. Getting to see elephants up close and seeing their behaviors always makes my day. It's so peaceful. Thank you for sharing this, and for all the hard work from everyone. ❤❤😊

[@o0sunsi0o]

Setombe's daughter was keen on seeing what was happening, it made me love them even more. Elephant personality and character are a real thing. Thank you, for sharing the HERD so we can look into the mysteries of these beautiful animals, too.

[@TheLesleegirl]

Awww what a great start to my freezing morning here in Eastern 🇨🇦. I always look forward to seeing this beautiful family, with the group of humans that take care of them all…..you are all AWESOME, and thank you so much for sharing Adene. Blessings, light & ❤ ☮️

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Thanks so much for caring and watching 🇿🇦

[@elainepeterson475]

It's so good to see how well the Herd is 24:34 accepting the Phabeni Elephant calf. ❤❤❤❤

[@reggieburris]

Thanks for all you do!💌

[@kp8381]

Lovely. I just sent $ also but through their website as they get all of it instead of a cut from KZbin. ❤️🐘❤️🐘

[@OublietteTight]

​@@kp8381news to me. Great point!

[@바오바오-k3c]

코끼리를 사랑하는 당신의 친절에 감사드립니다❤

[@LibertySneeden]

​@@kp8381I did not know that!!! Robbing our elephants gifts of generosity. 😢 Thanks for your kind donation on the website.

[@LibertySneeden]

Thank you for valuable dollars and your wonderful generosity. ❤❤❤

[@vanessaalexis6505]

Baby Phabeni has warmed everyone’s ❤️