Pole patrol!
One of the questions we’re often asked is why there are wooden poles between the keepers and orphans during our milk feeds. Well, the answer might make you smile – because it’s all about keeping our dedicated keepers safe from the sheer enthusiasm of the baby elephants!
Smiles all around!
In Kiswahili, the word “pole” means sorry – and it’s something that’s said when someone bumps into you, or when you want to express empathy. You can listen to the pronunciation by clicking here. We couldn’t help but chuckle when we realised the perfect connection between the word and the wooden poles at our feeding station – because without a sturdy pole between you and a hungry elephant enthusiastically running for its milk bottle, you’d say “pole” for a whole different reason!
A serious punch wrapped in cuteness
As cute as these babies are, we always remind visitors that elephants are the largest land mammals on earth. Even at a young age, they’re capable of surprising strength. Watching a baby elephant barrel toward its milk is both an awe-inspiring and slightly intimidating sight. Their excitement can knock you right off your feet – literally!
They may look cute from a distance, but up close, they remind us of the power that comes with their size and strength – even when they’re just a few months old.
For example, Seek, who is blind in one eye, is 5 years old, but weighs more than 500kg. For Seek, nothing stands between him and his bottle. And that’s where the poles come in. These sturdy wooden structures keep both the keepers and the elephants safe – creating a secure space where love and respect meet raw power.
Watch Seek, who is blind in one eye, run for this bottle.
Come see it first-hand!
When you visit Reteti, you’ll get to witness this unique interaction firsthand. You’ll understand why a simple wooden pole can mean the difference between a safe feeding and a “pole!” moment for the keepers. And maybe you’ll laugh out loud with us when you hear Seek’s thundering approach!
Help us keep Seek’s bottles full!
You can make a difference today by purchasing a milk bottle for one of our orphaned elephants by becoming Seek’s foster parent or by gifitng him a bottle of milk!
