Adine Rood, the founder of HERD – Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development in South Africa, recently visited the orphanage in Jabulani, located within the Kapama Private Game Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park.
Her visit brought her face-to-face with a truly extraordinary resident of the reserve – a majestic albino female elephant. First spotted in 2010 as a pink-skinned baby, this rare albino elephant named Khanyisa captured hearts with her unique appearance.
Albino elephants, with their lack of pigmentation, are scarce, with only 70 known to exist worldwide. The Reserve is home to several albino elephants, and Khanyisa’s birth coincided with the arrival of another baby elephant.
Although this new addition does not possess albinism, it is heartwarming to see both mother elephants independently raising their young ones. Khanyisa, on the other hand, has been lovingly cared for by the entire herd.
Now almost 11 years old, both albino elephants at Kapama have flourished under the attentive care provided by their dedicated caregivers.
While the other albino elephant at Kapama is slightly sensitive to sunlight, she has adapted remarkably well to her environment. As a result, she has successfully made the reserve her home.
The enchanting presence of these rare albino elephants has garnered significant attention worldwide.
These extraordinary creatures serve as a testament to the beauty and diversity of our natural world, inspiring awe and admiration among all who encounter them.
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