Rare Albino Elephant Forms Special Relationship With Nanny In South African Sanctuary

Khanyisa, an invaluable pale pachyderm, was rescued and transported to the “HERD” shelter in South Africa by Adine Roode, who established the elephant orphanage and sanctuary.

There, she received a warm welcome from the Jabulani elephant group, who embraced her as one of their own.

Growing up under the guidance of the shelter’s caretakers and older elephants, Khanyisa developed a special bond with her allomother (nanny) named Klaserie.

Klaserie enjoyed looking after Khanyisa, but sometimes her attentiveness made her forget her own strength. The dynamics within the group had changed over time, not because of the baby elephant, but due to the growth and development of individual qualities among the elephants.

Khanyisa had experienced several allomothers since joining the group, but recently Klaserie took on the specific responsibility of caring for the albino calf.

Afternoons in the elephant realm are dedicated to sharing happiness, acquiring new abilities, and nurturing the little ones.

Khanyisa and Timisa, another member of the group, provided opportunities for the female group members to enhance their abilities and gain experience.

Klaserie, being Setombe’s offspring, had grown up under protection, unlike her mother, who was an orphan. The allomother enjoyed interacting with the group members, but at times she became overly attentive towards the younger ones.

Khanyisa spent her time browsing on green grass and small trees, and her caring allomother was always by her side to offer assistance.

Khanyisa’s trunk was not yet strong, but with help, she could access the branches, bark, and bulbs gathered by the other elephants.

Similar to human infants, elephant calves need to learn everything from scratch and develop their skills as they grow older.

The group’s social structure plays a vital role in Khanyisa’s upbringing. With Klaserie taking on the role of babysitting the albino calf, other group members can finally take a well-deserved break.