A senior elephant carer at the Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD) in Limpopo has died after he was fatally attacked by an elephant.
Israel Shamba was gored to death by the elephant on Saturday, 13 September.
According to the sanctuary, while the elephants were out in the bush on the reserve, Limpopo pushed down a tree shortly after 15:00. Carers Stavros, Godknows, and Joshua went to fetch additional staff to help clear the road.
Israel, one of the senior carers, was reportedly seated nearby under a tree, and moments later, Limpopo (the elephant) unexpectedly turned her attention towards Israel and fatally gored him. Despite immediate efforts from his colleagues, nothing could be done.
“We are deeply shocked by this incident. Limpopo’s behaviour was entirely unexpected and unprovoked. At HERD, we have created a home and sanctuary for elephants in need of refuge or with a traumatic past, and to give orphans a second chance. Limpopo is Tokwe’s firstborn and the first within the herd who has never experienced a traumatic past,” the sanctuary said following the tragic incident.
Israel who was one of the original carers who arrived with the elephants from Zimbabwe in March 2002 has been described as a man of faith, known for his daily prayers in the vegetable garden and his unwavering dedication to Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development.
“Trusted, dependable, and deeply respected, Israel was always ready to assist beyond his duties. He often walked with Sebakwe, another elder of the herd, in quiet companionship at the close of each day, symbolic of the wisdom and calm he brought to our community.”
Elephant Manager, Tigere Matipedza said they don’t know what went through Limpopo’s mind and why she gored Israel.
“Just this morning [Monday], everything in the bush was calm, with no signs of agitation among the elephants,” he said.
HERD Advisor Brett Mitchell, from the Elephant Reintegration Trust, has been called in to provide guidance.
The sanctuary said Mitchell will remain on site in the coming days as they carefully assess the situation.
“No decisions will be taken hastily, as the implications of this event affect both carers and elephants profoundly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Israel’s family, his wife and eight children, during this devastating time. Israel was cherished by us all at HERD, and his absence will be deeply felt.”
