Ostrich Snuggles Orphaned Baby Elephants To Make Them Feel Less Alone After Losing Their Mothers

Oct 21, 2019 by apost team

It is difficult for injured or orphaned animals to survive in the wild without help. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) takes in animals in need of assistance and nurses them back to health for reintroduction into the wild. Now a female ostrich living at the DSWT sanctuary is making the news because of her affinity for and friendship with elephants.

The ostrich is named Pea and it came to live at the sanctuary in 2014, according to DSWT. Although Pea arrived at the sanctuary with her brother Pod, she found herself drawn to the elephants. So much so, that when Pod left to be returned to the wild, the decision was made to let Pea remain at the sanctuary.

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Pea has been a wonderful companion to the baby elephants who are brought to DSWT, and there are many photos of her cuddling up with them. She has spent so much time around elephants that she even copies their behavior. Pea is often seen lying with the elephants, who enjoy brushing against her soft feathers after cooling off in the mud. One baby elephant, in particular, has formed a special bond with Pea.

Jotto came to live at the wildlife sanctuary in 2016 after being rescued from a well by herders. Workers at the wildlife sanctuary believed that young Jotto was only a month old. Being so young, he certainly needed a mother figure and Pea was more than happy to oblige. One picture even shows Jotto laying on Pea as if she is a fluffy pillow. 

Let us know what you think about this story in the comments and be sure to pass this article of unlikely friendship along to someone you know who needs a reminder of the healing power of companionship.