Last year, we profiled Luggard, the adorable elephant in our Tiny Trumpeter print. Watching this tiny elephant overcome many obstacles in his short life, we have been rooting for Luggard’s successful recovery and integration from afar. Thankfully, the dedicated team at DSWT keeps a journal about all of their orphans, including Luggard, so we have been able to track his progress along with the rest of the DSWT orphans.

Since March 2017, Luggard’s condition has continuously improved. Although his leg still gives him some trouble, he has made tremendous physical and social growth, following along with the herd and browsing for food with his friends. While some of the other young male orphans like to play rough and bully one another, Luggard and his friends Musiara and Murit prefer to play gently, rolling around in the grass and playfully pushing one another. The keepers are very fond of Luggard, and he has created a special bond with them as they dedicate their time and attention to his recovery.

Thanks to the loving support of the DSWT keepers, Luggard’s health and confidence are improving daily. From an orphan who could barely walk to a confident young bull (seen in the current photo below) running for his milk and scampering around with the other calves, Luggard is on the road to recovery within a herd that has embraced him. You can stay aware of the work of the DSWT Orphans’ Project by following their journey in the DSWT Keeper’s Diary.

Sources

https://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/asp/orphan_profile.asp?N=362

Images

"Tiny Trumpeter", DSWT Series No. 2
Current photo courtesy of The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust