Who is a friend? A friend is indeed a blessing in disguise! Having a friend is important for several reasons. You laugh more, you heal better, and you grow together. Having the company of friends feels like a breath of fresh air one needs time and again.
Animals have their own special ways of expressing their care for each other. As Wildlife SOS works day and night for animal welfare and conservation, our expert team witnesses how resident animals at our centres, despite their adverse pasts, can form firm friendships with one another. These rescued beings need physical healing and psychological welfare and introducing them to those that have arrived from similar ordeals is one of the best ways to do so.
This National Best Friends Day, let’s take you through five cherishable friendships between animals at Wildlife SOS!
- Ganesh and Vitthal
Leopards are primarily known for their solitary nature, but a remarkable instance of social bonding challenges this perception. Our caregivers have witnessed mutual grooming and playful interactions between Ganesh and Vitthal, a duo that shares the same living space. The two male leopards are always seen close to each other. Ganesh being blind relies on his friend Vitthal’s eyes to experience his field. Vitthal never fails to guide and protect him through his expressive gestures. Such is the comfort Ganesh and Vitthal share with each other at the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre. Together, they are like two puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly!
- Abu and Zoey
While monkeys are often associated with mischief and antics, their capacity for forming deep bonds with one another is equally incredible. Whether it’s a troop swinging through canopies or a pair of older monkeys grooming one another with tender care, their friendships stand out in the animal world.
Abu and Zoey are the two rescued orphaned monkeys that were brought under the care of Wildlife SOS in Agra. At our centres, the treatment of rescued animals, specifically babies, places a lot of emphasis on physical and psychological recovery. We encourage them to develop friendships, which helps them to overcome the trauma they faced. With both monkey infants having lost their mothers to electric wires, they found solace in each other’s arms. They share tight hugs and refuse to leave each other. From munching on peanuts to running around playing with each other, the two have found a forever companion in each other!
- Maya, Phoolkali and Emma
Elephants take the phrase “better together” quite seriously! In the wild, they can mostly be seen walking in a herd, making sure none of their peers are left behind. These cognitive mammals experience emotions like sorrow, jealousy, and closeness amongst their group of friends.
At Wildlife SOS’s Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC), rescued elephants Maya, Phoolkali, and Emma share a profound friendship today. But this wasn’t always the case. When Emma was first introduced to the sisterhood of Maya and Phoolkali, Maya wasn’t comfortable sharing her best friend with Emma. However, seeing how Phoolkali affectionately welcomed Emma, Maya slowly followed her footsteps, and now the trio is always seen together! The three express deep fondness by caressing each other at all times.
Besides them, we also have other friendships at our centres that have blossomed over the years. Among them are Arya and Zara, Chanchal, Bijli, and Laxmi, Kalpana and Holly, Taj and Tara, Coconut and Peanut, and Rhea and Mia.
- Ron and Molly
Rescued together, Ron and Molly are a pair that never fails to fascinate our caregivers. Named after the Weasley family from the Harry Potter series, these bears demonstrate individual and interesting characteristics. Despite the age difference of more than eight years, active Ron and calm Molly are like yin and yang, balancing each other well! After the demise of Charlie and Ginny, who were also rescued with them, Ron was deeply affected. Molly stood close by his side during those difficult times. Today, their friendship shines bright at the centre as they engage in fun-filled activities together during the day.
- Special Mention: The Caregivers!
Caregivers at our centres have wholly dedicated themselves to make sure that the rescued animals remain safe, secure and well-tended to. The trust each of the caregivers have with the resident animals took time to develop, requiring patience and mutual understanding. Gradually, they became not just their keepers and well-wishers, they are the closest human companions the rehabilitated animals at our centres have. Caregivers indeed are the pillars of strength and support for the rescued animals, as well as for Wildlife SOS.
Some of Wildlife SOS’s caregivers have spent most of their lives caring for animals. A prime example is Baburam ji, whose dedication knows no bounds. Despite his age, he diligently cares for Suzy, a geriatric elephant, who he affectionately calls “Paro”. His day revolves around her well-being, from waking her up gently to ensuring her peaceful slumber.
Looking out for your pal with unconditional love is the epitome of true friendship. You too can become a part of our friendly family by becoming a wildlife warrior and making a donation.
