Births are always unique, and in the wilds of Ithumba, it’s an extraordinary celebration, especially when it’s a baby elephant.
These elephants, once orphans themselves, return to the place that cared for them when they become mothers, and the joy they bring is beyond words.
While we’ve seen such reunions, something magical happened on October 29th at Ithumba.
A baby elephant was born just outside the fences, and Head Keeper Benjamin witnessed it. What made this event exceptional was the birth itself and the unexpected circumstances surrounding it.
The atmosphere was filled with commotion as wild and ex-orphan elephants gathered; even the usually composed older females were bewildered.
In the midst of this, a new calf came into the world. It was a remarkable moment that the Ithumba elephant community will cherish.
As the initial astonishment subsided, the female elephants rushed to welcome the newborn.
Benjamin, taken aback by this unexpected event, soon realized that Melia, one of the ex-orphans, had given birth. It was a surprise since there were no prior signs of labor.
Melia, a first-time mother, found herself in unfamiliar territory. However, she had experienced peers who stepped in to assist her.
Loijuk, a seasoned mother, took charge, lending her support as the baby elephant learned to stand. The male elephants observed from a distance, their curiosity piqued.
A heartwarming photograph by Andrew Stuart captured the moment, confirming the newborn’s excellent health.
Milo’s mother, Melia, initially had reservations about nursing him, but she gradually embraced her maternal duties.
It’s uncommon for all elephants to have maternal instincts, but Melia developed hers over time.
The Keepers made an interesting observation – Milo was more significant than usual, a testament to Melia’s care, despite moments of feeling overwhelmed. She had a team of nannies providing both practical and emotional support.
Kalama, Olare, and other experienced mothers regularly checked in and offered guidance. Sities played the role of Melia’s assistant, ensuring the safety of Milo.
Melia has proven to be an exceptional mother, gaining confidence with time. Milo’s arrival brought joy to the female elephants at Ithumba.
Even though they weren’t initially allowed to see the newborn, they eventually got their chance. During their precious hour with Milo, they cared for him, keeping him safe.
Born during a drought, Milo is robust and healthy, taking after his mother’s large size. Remarkably, he was already comparable in size to a three-week-old calf and larger than Mambo, a seven-month-old, at just one day old.
The birth of Milo is a testament to the circle of life at Ithumba. His story is intertwined with Melia’s, who was discovered alone in Tsavo East National Park in 2009 when she was just eleven months old.
Since then, she has been under the team’s care and thrived in their care. Her successful transition back into the wild is a source of immense pride.
Milo’s arrival marks the fifty-third calf born to a once-orphaned elephant raised and reintroduced to the wild by the team.
With a potential seventy-year lifespan ahead, Milo’s journey is incredible, and we are honored to witness it from the beginning.
Watch the video below:
