Napasha
Napasha was discovered by a Masai herdsman in Laikipia, Kenya, in July 2003. The calf was lying on his side and appeared to be dead, but a closer look revealed signs of life. The exhausted 9-month-old was taken in by ranchers and driven seven miles south to the Nairobi nursery.
Once the calf had settled in, Napasha's quiet, caring and gentle personality emerged. In time, he began showing the signs of independence typical of a young male elephant. He even learned how to hold his own milk bottle, something no other calf has figured out how to do.
In June 2004, Napasha was one of four nursery orphans relocated to a new release site in Ithumba, which is located in Kenya's Tsavo East National Park. While en route, Napasha became frightened and lashed out at those riding in the truck with him, endangering their lives. Luckily, no one was seriously harmed.
Napasha is now part of an orphan group that includes several older elephants. This seems to have brought out his mischievous side, earning him the reputation of being "the naughtiest of the naughty boys" at Ithumba.
Foster Napasha with The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. (You are leaving discovery.com for a site not operated by or affiliated with Discovery.)
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