The past two weeks haven’t just been tough, but they’ve tested the resilience of HERD’s carers, who have braved waterlogged terrain and roads turned into rivers to remain by the side of the elephants they’ve vowed to protect.
Hoedspuit, South Africa (29 January 2026) – The heavy rains and flooding that swept across Limpopo in January 2026 have left a deep mark on communities, landscapes, and wildlife across the province.
For Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD), these floods were more than a temporary disruption; they were a serious test of resilience. Roads have turned into rivers, and daily routines have been affected. Yet still, the organisation’s dedicated carers never once left the elephants’ sides, even when conditions were frightening.
While the elephants might have appreciated the cooler temperatures, the weather’s overall impact was detrimental. Most notably, it delayed essential medical care for Fishan, who missed a veterinary appointment to treat two abscesses on his right foot and a developing one on his cheek.
“We had scheduled a second X-ray session for Fishan this past Monday, but extreme weather conditions and the area being declared a disaster zone made HERD unreachable. Even Dr Rogers, who was to lead the procedure, was unable to leave his home.”
As a result, Fishan’s appointment has been postponed and may only be rescheduled in about two months. In the meantime, he is receiving extra care to prevent infection, with his brave carers remaining on the ground and constantly by his side.
“From early morning foraging to swims in the water, to long walks through the bush and nighttime checks, they are always close by. Their gumboots and protective rain clothing made this possible. Without them, moving safely through the reserve would not have been an option,” HERD shares.
However, after days of constant use in extreme conditions, many pairs of boots and items of uniform are now damaged beyond repair.
In the immediate aftermath of the floods, HERD has now shifted its focus to stabilisation and restoration of all that’s been lost and ruined. A simple way to stand behind the people who stand behind the elephants every single day is to donate towards carer uniforms through HERD’s Flood Relief Fund.
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Sources: Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development
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