Sattao
Sattao originates from an area of Tsavo known for its big tuskers. Orphaned at the tender age of three months old, there is no doubt that this orphan will grow into a truly handsome young bull who will one day roam the vast plains of Tsavo National Park.
Sattao is a tiny baby who was in desperate need of rescue after being found wandering alone, emaciated and covered in predator bites wounds. Elephant Keepers, vets and rangers came together to rescue and care for him, until he could be safely transported to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Nairobi Nursery where he was to begin his rehabilitation journey. Given his fragile state, Keepers worked tirelessly to restore Sattao to a picture of health and heal his wounds. Read more.
If you feel inspired by Sattao’s story, and want to support his care, you can adopt through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Adoption Program. Our ability to raise orphaned elephants so that they will grow up as healthy, loved and supported animals is completely reliant on donations and the generosity of others.
Creating Sattao’s sculpture
Inspired by Sattao’s story of survival and the bright future that awaits him, internationally acclaimed artists Gillie and Marc have thoughtfully portrayed this true fighter, who faced down huge challenges in his first chapter of life, in bronze.
Raising awareness for elephants
Elephants once roamed the plains of Africa in their millions but now, the species are officially endangered. Poachers and habitat loss, amongst other threats, has brought African savanna elephants like Sattao to the brink of extinction, while their forest elephant cousins are listed as critically endangered. There is a very real possibility we might be the last generation to see elephants in the wild.
By sharing Sattao’s story, we hope to raise awareness and engage people in the plight of elephants, and how our own actions could help save a species.