Elephants Alive Shepherd Program

Real-Life Heroes: South Africa’s Elephant Shepherds on the Frontline of Coexistence

Over the past few months, our dedicated elephant shepherds in South Africa have been working tirelessly to prevent human-elephant conflict in some of the most challenging conditions of the year.

As the dry season tightened its grip and natural food sources grow scarce, elephants are increasingly tempted to venture into camps in search of nourishment. One particular bull has required constant monitoring after repeatedly breaking into camps, while our teams have also deterred groups of elephants attempting to enter populated areas.

Night after night, our shepherds stand guard, often working long hours through the darkness, to guide elephants away from danger and protect both people and property. Their efforts are proving invaluable, helping to prevent potential damage and ensuring that these incidents end peacefully.

The shepherds’ deep local knowledge, patience, and bravery make them an irreplaceable part of our conservation team. Each successful intervention is a testament to their commitment to coexistence, even when conditions are toughest.

We are incredibly proud of our South African shepherds and deeply grateful for their resilience and dedication. Their role remains vital in keeping both elephants and communities safe.

With gratitude,
The Elephants Alive Team

Links:

• Rescuing 5 elephants from HEC

Over the last few months, our elephant shepherds have once again proven themselves to be real-life heroes in the field.

In a tense and dramatic incident this March, one of our tracked elephants made a cross-border journey from Mozambique into South Africa. Unfortunately, the elephant ventured into sugarcane farmland, triggering understandable concern from local farmers and posing a serious risk of human-elephant conflict.

Without rapid intervention, this story could have ended in tragedy. But thanks to the extraordinary coordination between our elephant tracking team, cooperative farmers, a helicopter pilot, and—most importantly—our community-based elephant shepherds, the elephant was guided back to safety.

This operation was no small feat. It required real-time monitoring, quick response logistics, and deep trust built over time with local communities. It is a powerful example of how coexistence is possible when people, technology, and compassion work hand in hand.

According to a South African farmer, the shepherds' presence made all the difference, they were very thankful. 

These moments are why the Shepherd Program exists. Every successful intervention means another elephant is spared, another conflict is resolved peacefully, and another community sees the value of conservation from within.

In the coming months, we’ll continue to monitor elephant movements closely, respond rapidly where needed, and support our shepherds in doing what they do best—keeping elephants and people safe.

We’re incredibly proud of the shepherds and thankful for your continued support. You are an essential part of this journey.

With gratitude,

The Elephants Alive Team

Links:

• Live footage of the elephants being shepherded to safety