In the dry scrublands of northern Kenya, the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is pioneering a new approach to caring for its orphaned elephants by using goat milk instead of expensive human baby formula.

This novel method enhances the elephants’ health and provides significant financial benefits to the local community.

Watch the video at the end.

Since its founding in 2016, Reteti’s mission has been to rescue and nurture orphaned and abandoned elephant calves, preparing them for a return to the wild. Traditionally, the sanctuary used costly powdered baby milk to feed the young elephants.

However, Dr. Steven Chege, the sanctuary’s veterinarian adviser, revealed they are now testing a goat milk-based formula for the youngest elephants.

The switch to goat milk is crucial, as orphaned elephants often suffer from severe psychological trauma after losing their mothers and being separated from their families. Maintaining their health is a significant challenge, and goat milk offers several nutritional advantages.

Dr. Chege explains that goat milk’s high digestibility and rich protein content make it an excellent choice for supporting the survival and growth of calves.

Additionally, it is less likely to cause stomach issues, making the transition smoother for the elephants.

Economically, this shift could reduce feeding costs for Reteti’s herd of 15-30 elephants, although the full financial impact, including refrigeration expenses, is still being assessed.

Notably, the move to goat milk substantially benefits the local community, particularly goat farmers like Liwana Lenakukunyia.

For many local farmers, especially women, supplying goat milk to the sanctuary has become a crucial source of income.

Liwana expressed her gratitude for this opportunity, highlighting how it has brought economic stability to her family. The initiative has empowered her and other farmers, fostering financial independence and growth.

The sight of young elephants eagerly drinking goat milk from feeding bottles in their dusty enclosure is a testament to the success of this innovative feeding strategy.

This approach not only meets the nutritional needs of the elephants but also supports local farmers, creating a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between wildlife conservation and the community.