NRM helps rewild elephants in Kenya

NRM was recently involved in a rewilding project for elephants returning to Kenya. The Aspinall Foundation, an internationally renowned conservation charity, commissioned testing of Kenyan water for its suitability as drinking water for elephants due to be rewilded. The results were compared with data generated from water they have been drinking in England. This will allow them to compare the two and make an informed decision on where the elephants could be safely sent, taking the Foundation a crucial step towards achieving its conservation effort.

‘The process of rewilding a herd of 13 elephants more than 7,000 kilometres across the world to their ancestral home in Kenya has many stages. Assessing drinking water suitability is just one of them,’ said Rebecca Wilkinson, Customer Operations Manager at NRM. ‘Their analysis results will allow the Foundation to decide whether the water in Kenya will be too saline for their elephants. We are delighted to be a part of this fantastic conservation effort.’

The Aspinall Foundation is based in Kent and has protected endangered animals all over the world since 1984. Working alongside The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Kenya Wildlife Service, the Foundation is considering two different sites in the south of Kenya. The elephants are currently housed in an 8-acre enclosure at Howletts Wild Animal Park, where the herd comprises two interrelated families, including 3 calves. This will be the first time a herd of elephants has been returned to Africa from Europe.

Elephants in captivity do not live as long and do not breed as well as their cousins in the wild. The Foundation believes that no elephants belong in captivity, and so is taking great steps to rewild them safely and successfully. While both Kenyan sites seem to provide the perfect natural conditions for their herd, for this project to be successful, they needed to be certain.

‘NRM offers a variety of services for optimal farming and horticultural production throughout the UK,’ said Simon Parrington, Chief Executive Officer of Cawood. ‘The division’s expertise means they regularly develop innovative tests to meet specific needs. Taking part in important conservation endeavours like this also means we can continue to support a safer, healthier planet.’

The Aspinall Foundation are looking for people to support them in their Back to the Wild Campaign. By adopting any of their elephants, benefactors are supporting the campaign and will receive adoption packs so they can learn all about their chosen animal. There are also plenty of other ways to give, from fundraising events to donations. For more information, visit their website.

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