Search for: raju

Many of us may have heard the term 'Butterfly Effect’. It’s a concept from Chaos Theory that posits how a small change can lead to significant consequences. Edward Lorenz, the father of Chaos Theory, famously explained it with the example of how a butterfly flapping its wings in Brazil can subsequently produce a tornado in Texas. For those[…]

Over 9 years ago, Raju was brought to our facility after he was saved from a brutal life he had endured for half a century. His rescue was momentous not only because of his remarkable personal story, but he also brought international exposure to the plight of countless captive Asian elephants. To this effect, I recall one reporter asking, “I[…]

Elephants, along with cetaceans and great apes, are regarded as some of the most intelligent and social animals on Earth. Widely known for their cognitive skills and emotional sensitivity, Asian elephants live in tightly-knit herds. Calves enjoy the company of their mother, aunts, and older siblings for the formative years of their life. Now[…]

The Wildlife SOS Field of Dreams witnessed an unusual amount of activity on the morning of 4th of July, this year. It turns out our elephant care staff was counting days to this grand day of celebration when they would organize a surprise feast for one of our beloved elephants— Raju! Seven years ago, everyone was moved to tears with Raju’s[…]

Lavanya takes a walk with Chanchal at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Centre. Lavanya Raju is the Director of Finance and Administration based in our small Utah, USA office. She joined Wildlife SOS in 2015. You can often find Lavanya working closely with our supporters on questions about their monthly donations, estate[…]

Imagine spending your whole life in shackles, both mental and physical – never being allowed to exit the length of the chain that binds you, never allowed to roam freely under the open skies and most importantly, never even knowing your family for decades and decades. Now imagine being poked with spikes every time you take a step, having small[…]

Year of rescue: 2014 Age at the time of rescue: 50 years old Sex: Male Personality traits: Reserved and gentle Recognisable features: Tuskless (makhna) Present health condition: Undergoing treatment for chronic hip abscess with regular cleaning and dressing with antiseptic ointment Facility: Treatment Unit at[…]

When one decade of abuse seems like a lifetime, imagine the trauma of five decades of unimaginable level of abuse, cruelty and neglect, waking up each day with a yell and then being dragged on to the unforgiving streets of Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh for begging. Raju had already lived 50 years of abuse, brutal training, disciplining and breaking[…]

Come July and the eager anticipation of the monsoon showers marks the everyday mood of life in India. The rejuvenating raindrops bring the much-needed respite to the tired and withered souls from the harsh summers. Everybody collectively heaves a sigh of relief and rekindles their spirit. After facing nearly five decades of cruelty and suffering,[…]

Two years ago, Raju was a begging elephant. His gaunt, emaciated frame, riddled with scars from garish wounds, was held up by limbs weakened from overwork and neglect. He walked along hot, tarred roads for hours on end, his owner sitting atop him, as he lumbered sadly through dirty, polluted and sometimes crowded roads, begging with an[…]

All around the world, people know the story of Raju, the courageous elephant who stole our hearts when he wept during his rescue. However, what most people don't know is on that hot night in July, 2014, there were supposed to be two elephants freed. Yes, two! Planning had started weeks before to rescue two elephants simultaneously, Raju and[…]

Raju is currently in Musth which is a natural and healthy phenomenon in male (bull) elephants. Characterized by heavy secretion of the temporal glands, this also displays increased alertness and often aggressive behavior caused by heightened testosterone. Raju, however continues to surprise us with his rather calm composure unlike most other[…]

It has been almost 6 months since you made it possible for us to rescue Raju. We wanted to give you an update on how he is doing. Many of the dozens of wounds that were covering his body have healed. He still has a large one on his front leg that has not completely healed, but has closed about 50%. The medical issue that is the most challenging[…]

When Raju was rescued in July, 2014, his story caught fire and was covered by major news outlets around the world. After 50 years of brutality, and as many as 27 "owners", Raju was finally free. But then, just a few short months later, the man from whom we had taken Raju, Mr. Shahid, filed court papers in an attempt to get him back. We were[…]

Tell us who you are and how you started working with Wildlife SOS? My name is Steve Koyle and I’m the Senior Elephant Keeper at the Phoenix Zoo.  I’ve been working with elephants for almost 13 years.  I had the honor of meeting Kartick and Geeta three years ago at an elephant conference in Oakland, CA.  I became inspired by the work of[…]

Raju's case was not listed today at Allahabad High Court but is now likely to be heard on the 3rd of November. We understand that you might be frustrated with the delays but we request you to kindly understand that there isn't anything we can do to control this. Our lawyers are confident and ready for the case whenever it is finally heard! In the […]

We just wanted to share with you that Raju's court case has now been delayed until October 27.  There isn't any stated reason for the delay.  We will be ready when the case is finally heard.  Thank you for your support.[…]

For Raju, a new life of freedom began after 50 years of cruelty, when he was rescued by Wildlife SOS and brought to the Elephant Conservation and Care Center, Mathura in Uttar Pradesh. Initially shy and weak, it took him a few weeks to familiarize himself with the surroundings and realize that he could roam around free without spiked anklets[…]

For those of you awaiting news and the outcome for Raju's court case, please note that his case is now scheduled to be heard September 22.  We will post immediately following the court hearing.  Thank you to everybody who is writing to us expressing your love and concern for Raju.  We are ready and confident that we will win.[…]

Right after Raju's rescue happened, those of us at Wldlife SOS were extremely touched by the overwhelming support that came in from around the world to help Raju. One day in July, somebody started the conversation on Facebook that a benefit concert should happen for Raju. Barbara immediately jumped into the conversation and offered to make a[…]

New Delhi, INDIA (September 3, 2014) Chances are you either saw the video or heard the story of Raju the elephant, who was rescued this past July in Uttar Pradesh, India after being held captive for almost 50 years in chains. A court date has been set for September 11th to decide whether Raju should return back to his owner who abused and[…]

1.) I don't understand, I thought Wildlife SOS had legal custody of Raju. How can Mr. Shahid make claims to get him back? Wildlife SOS was given legal custody of Raju by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department through a court order. The man who previously claimed to own him, Mr. Shahid, has now gone to the court asking Raju to be returned to him.[…]

Raju has suffered 50 years of unimagineable cruelty. Two months ago, the world worked together to set him free. But it turns out his awful past is not fully behind him. The cruel person who denied him even the most basic comforts has just filed papers in court to get him back. Be his voice and stand up for his freedom!We will post an FAQ soon of[…]

Raju was rescued a little over one month ago.  After 50 years in chains, he is now learning the joys of being free and is getting the love and care he deserves.  Here is a photo journal of some of these highlights. One of the first things Raju needed was veterinary care to the wounds that covered his body.  The wounds on his body were from[…]

Following the rescue of Raju, there was a high demand for Raju t-shirts.  We took in the recommendations and requests by our supporters and we are now offering several Raju t-shirt designs.  If you are interested in helping Raju, then purchase a t-shirt today.  Wildlife SOS receives a percentage of the proceeds for every item purchased. Most of […]

After fifty long years of being chained and leading a life of suffering, Raju was freed in the early hours of the morning on 4th July 2014 by Wildlife SOS, a Delhi based NGO. For the first time after five decades, he is having his first day of freedom. It is an interesting coincidence that 4th July happens to be America’s independence day! Raju[…]

We don't have a lot of information about Raju's earlier life.  We believe he was probably born in the wild almost 50 years ago and when he was just a baby, caught and sent to live his life as a working elephant.  He has spent almost 50 years in chains and most likely would have died never known freedom.  However, on July 4th, Raju took his[…]

We have some great news, there is now a court order that is allowing for us to finally rescue an elephant by the name of Raju.  We need your help to raise the funds to take care of rescuing him and providing him with the intense rehabilitation and care he will need. Here is a little bit of information about him.  Raju is approximately 45-50[…]

They say it’s never too late to follow your dreams, and if we were to illustrate this through someone’s life, it would surely be of Debbie Haynes. This month, we shine a spotlight on our ever-shining star who is Wildlife SOS’s UK Manager. Her journey with the organisation began in 2018 as an active volunteer at our centres, during which[…]

Elephants are known for their colossal size, strength, complex behaviours, and remarkable intelligence. These highly social animals possess well-developed cognitive and sensory capacities adapted to their natural environments. In the wild, elephants lead dynamic lives, constantly engaged in activities related to foraging, grazing, and defending[…]

Elephant Rehabilitation Centre (ERC) is widely known for the loud trumpets of its most famous residents: Erika, Ella, Lilly, and Jasmine. The four companions form a tight-knit herd and barely leave each other’s side. However, they weren’t always like that. Each of the four carries the scars of adversity before they found solace and sisterhood […]

As the blistering heat engulfs regions of Northern India, temperature records break the mercury scale, shooting as high as 45.6 degrees in Mathura. Humans and animals are victims of the scorching sun and the myriad challenges that come with it. The situation is no different for the gentle giants at our Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) […]

Update - Xavi Won! We were thrilled to let you know in June that Xavi Barugh, one of our youngest and most passionate fundraisers had made it through to the finals of the prestigious Child of Sussex Awards 2024, in the highly coveted ‘Caring For The Environment’ category! We are delighted to announce that Xavi WON! Returning for its 11th[…]

We wholeheartedly appreciate the support we receive from people all over the world who volunteer and raise funds for the rescued and rehabilitated animals of Wildlife SOS. Animals under our care have endured severe suffering and traumatic experiences in cruel captivity, until Wildlife SOS provided them with a second chance at life. We are deeply[…]

Dental health isn't just a concern for humans; it plays a crucial role in the well-being of all rehabilitated animals. From brushing and flossing to prevent cavities, to addressing bacterial films on teeth, proper oral care is essential. Beyond dental implications, good oral health positively influences overall welfare as well, as bacteria[…]

The year 2023 brought multiple occasions, events and highlights at Wildlife SOS which left a mark on everyone’s hearts. From rescues of wild animals from extreme situations to the introduction of new animals at our centres, we saw it all! Here’s a glimpse of some of our biggest achievements throughout the year.  1. Empowering[…]

Wildlife SOS is thrilled to announce that after a nearly three-year legal battle, Jai is truly free! The images of Jai before his December 2020 rescue will haunt us forever. His condition was heart-wrenching, with severe untreated wounds on his legs inflicted by cruel spiked chains. Almost as shocking, after Jai’s rescue a flurry of legal[…]

Today, numerous animals require rescuing from various situations. As an organisation that actively runs and manages over 10 rescue centres across the country, it is no surprise that each of our facilities is a sanctuary to many animals that are under the long-term care of Wildlife SOS. Animals staying in captivity for a long period of time[…]

Don’t you love the taste of fresh mangoes or juicy watermelons in summers? Well, you are not alone! While fruits are delicious treats for humans, fruit-eating animals love to bite into them too! But what if we told you that the relationship between animals and fruits is much deeper than we thought. Some scientists have suggested that the taste[…]

Colossal animals are often associated with giant myths and misconceptions. Little is known about their traits and behaviour. Elephants are the largest land mammals but have been misused in captivity for various nefarious activities that have grossly affected their health. It’s about time we equip ourselves with the right knowledge and[…]

Hailing from the Mughal era, the tradition of 'dancing' bears was once a thriving practice that was passed down from generation to generation among the Kalandar community. As time progressed and the royal era declined, the Kalandar community had to take this practice to the streets in order to sustain their livelihood. While the community[…]

Animals are ingenious. If they weren’t, surviving in the wild would have been impossible for them. And we are here to talk about their smarts. The animal kingdom is overflowing with creativity, and sitting right at the top of the pyramid are Homo sapiens. Humans have creatively shaped, moulded and terraformed the Earth’s surface like no[…]

As the scorching heat of summer envelops India, a silent struggle takes place deep within the heart of landscapes that were once heavily forested. While being a vital source of water, open wells have become treacherous traps for wild animals — from elusive jackals and majestic leopards to misinterpreted hyenas and venomous[…]

It has been close to 15 years since we rescued India’s last dancing bear. Since a sloth bear named Raju arrived back in 2009, we have not seen the problem of ‘dancing’ bears reemerge in India. For me, I find great satisfaction that we were both able to bring an end to a cruel practice that had thrived for hundreds of years, and we were able […]

An unforeseen danger in the form of an open well, in the Rajuri Village of Maharashtra forced an unlikely duo to make an uneasy truce. Farmers were overwhelmed to find a golden jackal trapped inside a 25-foot-deep well. However, this jackal was not alone. It was accompanied by the highly venomous Indian cobra, also caught inside the well. The[…]

Sonam, Account Officer at Wildlife SOS, has a heart-to-heart chat with us about her work and her experiences as a part of the Wildlife SOS team! With over eight years of experience under her belt, Sonam is now a veteran at this organisation. What do you do at Wildlife SOS? How long have you been here? I mainly work with everything that[…]

Elephants under the care of Wildlife SOS suffer from trauma and wounds due to their tragic past of cruelty and abhorrent living conditions. Long periods of negligence, limited space for movement, little or no veterinary care and malnutrition lead to bodily harm. Elephants are found with various physical injuries such as infected wounds,[…]

The air was full of celebration and excitement (with a whiff of mango popsicles) at the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre on Saturday as the Wildlife SOS team celebrated the 16th rescue anniversary of three former ‘dancing’ bears. A special guest and long-time supporter of Wildlife SOS, actress Samyukta Hornad, graced the occasion with her[…]

In the year 1970, an environmental consciousness that had long been brimming in the minds of people reached its culmination, specifically in the United States. Perturbed by the Santa Barbara Oil Spill of 1969,  activists mobilized to create environmental regulations, policies, and general awareness. The first Earth Day was organized by[…]

One community which NGOs have relied upon almost always, are the ones who participate without expecting anything in return. It is an act of pure selflessness. We are referring to volunteers, and it seems Volunteer Recognition Day, which falls on April 20, is the perfect occasion to celebrate their willingness and dedication. People, no matter[…]

Community-based conservation (CBC) is a method without which most of the things in the world of conservation cannot be achieved. From the hilly villages of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh in the western Himalayan landscape, to the forest fringe villages in the mangrove landscape of the Sundarbans in West Bengal, wherever you go, no conservation[…]

After successfully reuniting several leopard cubs in the past month, Wildlife SOS is relieved to announce another fortunate mission. A 3-month-old female leopard cub was recently spotted in a sugarcane field of Rajuri Village, Junnar, Maharashtra. Local farmers harvesting sugarcane from the fields made this observation. Being aware of the need to […]

Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, was known for his love for children and animals; So much so that on the occasion of Nehru’s birthday, India observes a day dedicated to the nation’s children. Nehru’s attitude towards children was accurately captured in a letter he once wrote to the children of India. He said,[…]

Elephant herds are the living examples of the strongest familial relationships in the wild, each member of the herd has a role to play to ensure that the herd is safe. For an animal that thrives in the company of similar majestic beings, a life in captivity is nothing short of torture and injustice. This is precisely why, when rescued elephants,[…]

To preserve a healthy ecological balance on our planet, human beings need to come together to protect our wildlife. Each species serves its own unique purpose in the food chain. As time moves forward, we’ve had to adapt to our current climate. Rapid urbanisation and habitat modification redefined the lines between cities and forests. Our[…]

Communications superstar and an avid lover of all that nature has to offer, this month’s staff highlight is a member of our team, known, loved and respected by everyone. Her infectious laughter and vivacious personality makes her the best team lead one could ever ask for. This month, we bring you the story of Ms. Suvidha Bhatnagar. Suvidha[…]

As maximum temperatures reach up to 47 degrees Celsius in parts of Uttar Pradesh, the team at the Elephant Conservation & Care Centre, Mathura have taken innovative measures to help the elephants beat that summer heat! At ECCC, all 28 resident pachyderms have access to their very own Jumbo swimming pools as well as water sprinklers that[…]

Winner: Xavi Barugh (8yrs old) At Wildlife SOS, we truly appreciate the effort put in by every volunteer associated with us. Each year to honor their work, we select a volunteer who receives the ‘Wildlife SOS Volunteer Award’ for their commitment to helping us save India’s wildlife.  We are pleased to announce that 8-year-old[…]

It is believed that not all heroes wear capes, some of them don a green Veterinary scrubs and set out each day to ensure that the animals under our care are doing fine. The world calls them “veterinarians” but we call them “our wildlife heroes”! This World Veterinary Day, we take you on some exclusive insights from the veterinarians of […]

Dr Arun A Sha has been working with Wildlife SOS since 2004. A strong proponent of the need for establishing alternate methods of livelihood for the Kalandar community that was involved in the 400-year-old ‘Dancing Bear’ practice, Dr Arun has been extremely vocal about the need for a holistic approach towards ending the practice, instead of[…]

We at Wildlife SOS take immense pride in our young wildlife warriors. Their passion and dedication to helping conserve and safeguard nature are truly inspirational.  We take this opportunity to talk about young Xavi, an eight-year-old British schoolboy with learning difficulties who is spearheading a campaign in his school to support our[…]

The heartbreaking sight of a wounded elephant walking in pain along busy highways and narrow streets is the most prominent sign of abuse and ignorance that can be represented. Many people firmly believe that the elephant, whose body hosts chronic, infected wounds and abscesses, is actually well taken care of but the reality is far from what is[…]

A huge thank you from Wildlife SOS for all your Giving Tuesday 2020 support! We shared some striking "then and now" videos and images that really demonstrate the impact we've all made in these beautiful animals' lives. If you missed them on our Facebook and Instagram pages, you can see them here. If you would like to support Wildlife SOS[…]

Elephants are social and sentient beings that express pain, joy, discomfort and anger just like humans. As a traveler, you might not know that captive elephants that are used for begging, riding, parades, weddings or processions go through horrific training methods in order to be ‘tamed’. Repeated thrashings, starvation, prodding of[…]

Time and again, your feeds on social media will be filled with one of our rescued elephants splashing around in the pools in their enclosures or napping comfortably in it. More often than not, an image of our elephants completely submerged in water with just a trunk lazily hanging on the edge shows their complete relaxation and joy. In the[…]

There are countless reasons why you shouldn’t ride elephants.  Here are just 5 of our top reasons why you shouldn’t ride an elephant.  If you still aren’t convinced, please write to us at info@wildlifesos.org, and we will answer your questions.   Elephants- in order to make them ready for humans to ride means they[…]

At Wildlife SOS, we believe a great way to affect change is to create petitions, combine our voices, and demand action. We are often asked if petitions really make a difference. “Do petitions work?” The answer is absolutely “yes!” Many of the petitions you signed have saved lives and brought justice for animals. These petitions have also[…]

#GivingTuesdayNow is a global day of giving and unity that will take place on May 5, 2020 as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. Wildlife SOS is not immune to the impacts of this pandemic. The costs of food and medical supplies in India have skyrocketed as a result. These items are desperately needed in order for[…]

Adorned with 118 names, the Wall of Dreams is dedicated to our supporters and donors, all over the world! [Photo (c) Wildlife SOS/Shirina Sawhney] Leaving behind a lifetime of abuse and neglect, our elephants do not just come to the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Centre for care and comfort, they come home, the home that they[…]

Not all heroes wear capes, some wear Wildlife SOS T-shirts and wake up every morning, ever-so-diligently to go check on the animals that they take care of – indeed, these are the unsung heroes of Wildlife SOS, they are the animal keepers at our rescue centres across the country. Hailing from different corners of the country, these men stand[…]

A known and loved face in the Wildlife SOS Agra Bear Rescue Facility, Jay Prakash has been taking care of the bears at Enclosure no. 10 from the last 11 years. Jay Prakash took care of cattle in his village from a very young age, and that is what made him realise his unmatched love for animals. He joined Wildlife SOS in 2008, and has loved working […]

Wildlife SOS presents the 3rd annual Tusk of the Town in Salt Lake City, Utah Join Wildlife SOS co-founders Kartick and Geeta for an unforgettable evening to benefit elephants! Features: • Indian dinner buffet from Saffron Valley • Signature cocktails from Five Wives Vodka and delicious ele-themed beer from Red Rock Brewery • Virtual[…]

Tracing back to the 16th century, the barbaric dancing bear trade was extensively prevalent across the Indian subcontinent. Initializing with poaching the cubs from the wild by killing their protective mothers, the bear cubs were consequently subjected to a series of harsh processes. Entrapped by the shackles of poverty and lack of education, the[…]

Dreams can become reality — and our elephant Field of Dreams is officially open! It's been a long two years acquiring the land, building out the big elephant enclosures, sculpting the nature trails, and so on, but finally, this past weekend, the Field got its first two permanent residents: Raju and Gajraj! As of now they are busily exploring[…]

Michael Oreo was only three years old when he and three other sloth bears were rescued in an anti-poaching operation carried by Wildlife SOS in Jharkhand in 2013. The poachers were attempting to sell the bears in Nepal where the barbaric practice of ‘dancing bears’ is still legal. Deprived of a nutritious and healthy diet, he was thin and[…]

What is musth?Musth is a completely natural phenomenon seen in healthy adult bull elephants, both tuskers and makhnas (tuskless bulls). Generally characterised by the secretion of a hormone rich substance called temporin from the temporal gland (on either side of the elephant’s head) and a steady trickle of urine down the back legs of the[…]

Education in any form is incomplete if limited to theory and text-book memorisation, its greatest value lying in the wholesome and comprehensive learning that only practical experiences can provide. At Wildlife SOS, we understand the importance of sensitising children to environmental problems and animal welfare and educating them about[…]

Two years ago, on the fourth of July 2014, Dr. Yaduraj Khadpekar knelt down near a massive bull elephant, and with the care and precision of the fantastic veterinarian he is, gently cut the spiked chains cutting into the elephant’s legs – the very chains that had held this amazing animal captive for more than fifty years. The entire rescue was […]

Two years ago we started offering text updates in the United States, and we’ve loved the ability to instantly connect with our supporters when something really timely is taking place. The texting program was set up just before Raju’s rescue. Because it was so new, fewer than 100 people received a text notification that Raju was safe and on[…]

05th February2015. Everything around her was darkness. She could hear scuffling, urgent whispers, and the low rumble of a large vehicle pulling up beside her. She could feel hands on her tiny body, reassuring her and easing off the chains that held her in place. But she couldn’t see anything, it was all dark. The hands felt unfamiliar but[…]

The sight of Raju taking a dip in his pool gives optimism to elephant lovers around the world. For many, getting to India to see Raju’s new life of freedom first-hand is difficult, so for this touching scene to be captured in print is an extraordinary gift. The photo of Raju in his pool is just one of the amazing auction items for “Bid to Be[…]

In a dusty bylane, sandwiched between two rickety houses, a shaggy black figure ambles behind a man, dragged along the street by a thick, coarse rope. A crowd of villagers gathers around the animal, a sloth bear, as it enters a small clearing, and the duo stop walking. The rope, strung through the crudely pierced muzzle of the bear is yanked[…]

Side-by-side on their shed’s cemented ground, legs restrained painfully, the two elderly female elephants cut a pitiable figure. Wildlife SOS senior veterinarian, Dr. Arun A. Sha, approaches Sita, the older of the two, and strokes her trunk gently before proceeding to examine her feet. Sita’s right front limb is outstretched awkwardly, the[…]

With the dab of a paintbrush or the stroke of a pencil, an artist brings to life an elephant breaking free from its chains or a sloth bear in slumber. As the artwork travels across the globe, exchanging hands and lending its colours to homes, galleries and offices, the story behind the picture spreads with it. People learn about Raju- the elephant […]

Causing stiffness, swelling and sometimes unbearable pain in the affected joints, arthritis affects a sizeable number of people in the world, hindering their mobility and everyday activities, and causing them immense discomfort and pain. Living with arthritis can be unimaginably difficult, and studies have shown that the resulting pain and[…]

The United States Ambassador to India, Mr. Richard Verma, and his wonderful family stopped by the Agra Bear Rescue Facility and Elephant Conservation and Care Centre on Sunday to spend an entire day with the rescued animals on site. The Ambassador and his family started their visit by meeting the staff at the Agra Bear Rescue Facility and taking a […]

When Wildlife SOS rescued Raju the elephant from fifty years of abuse as a working elephant, the response we got from the rest of the world was completely unexpected. With the rescue video going viral and Raju’s heartbreaking story touching lives everywhere, the love and support that poured in from around the world was a heartwarming surprise to […]

We've been taking note of the questions you are asking about Mohan, and have drafted the answers below to help bring more clarity to his current situation. Thank you for having an interest in Mohan, and for supporting our efforts to rescue him. What is Mohan’s history? Mohan has been chained up and used as a working elephant since he was a[…]

Our Spring auction is just around the corner, and you don't want to miss the chance to bid on our unique items! After all, where else can you find authentic elephant footprints, beautiful wildlife jewelry, signed Bette Midler memorabilia, original artwork featuring Raju, and the chance to name a rescued bear cub, all in one place? The 'Bid to be […]

Thanks to a partnership with Arm the Animals, we are proud to offer some great new products you can purchase to support our rescue work and to show your love for Raju, Suzy, and the whole Herd of Hope. Check out a few of the products in the images below, and find the rest on the Arm the Animals store.  […]

1.) Now that you have launched the circus elephant campaign, does that mean you will only be helping elephants from circuses? No, circus elephants are our primary concern right now, however that does not mean that Wildlife SOS will no longer cater to the needs of rescuing and rehabilitating elephants other than circus elephants. In fact we are[…]

Steve Koyle is the Senior Elephant Keeper at the Phoenix Zoo. We asked him a bit about his job, as well as about the work he has done with the Wildlife SOS elephants: Many people would consider working with elephants to be a dream job. How did you end up doing what you do? Working with elephants is truly a dream job. As a young kid growing up, I[…]

This past year has been an eventful one. We have achieved many victories and conducted successful rescue operations in an attempt to conserve wildlife and educate people on how to deal with wildlife encounters. To coexist with wildlife peacefully is a virtue as human development progressively encroaches on wildlife habitat which in turn increases[…]

PRESS RELEASE After eradicating the brutal, centuries-old practice of dancing bears in India, Wildlife SOS is now ready to take the first steps toward rescuing all of the remaining 67 circus elephants in India. In the first phase of this campaign, Wildlife SOS plans to facilitate the rescue of 17 elephants. Wildlife SOS is launching a[…]

Following the iconic midnight rescue operation of ‘Raju’ Elephant, carried out by Delhi based NGO - Wildlife SOS, it was now Lilly’s turn for freedom, a 35 years old female elephant who was freed from her shackles by a team from Wildlife SOS and the Haryana Forest Department. Like most wildlife rescue operations, this effort also concluded[…]

It is challenging to deal with man-animal conflict, especially in areas where tribals and animals breathe the same air. In such cases what happens is that hunt and wild animals retaliate when they sense danger. To resolve such issues Wildlife SOS has always been on its toes. The organization’s goal has been to help the local communities to[…]

September 8th thru September 14th Wildlife SOS is working with Whimsical Pet Portraits to raise money to help more elephants as part of our Raju Rescue Fund. You can even have their portrait turned into note cards! Wildlife SOS received 30% of all proceeds from these pet portraits. If you are looking for a fun gift for the holidays, this could […]

It has been one year since Bijli passed. Although she was in our life for a short time, she will always be remembered for her great courage and inspiring us to be more determined to help others like her. When Wildlife SOS was called in to help her, we felt optimistic that she would regain her strength. There were days she was able to stand on her […]

By Snehal Bhavsar On September 29th, the keeper of 'Ajay Farm'  located on the Kalali-talsat Rd. in Vadodara city, went out to put his labrador in a dog kennel.  However, when he arrived at the kennel he was both shocked and surprised to find a huge 9.5 ft crocodile sitting in the kennel. Luckily, the keeper was able to think quickly on his[…]

They tried to run, but they couldn't hide. Eight more dancing bears have been rescued after they were found in Nepal; their owners hiding from authorities. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (June 4, 2010 - Delhi, India) An international coalition of animal rescue groups which historically ended the practice of dancing bears in India last year has[…]