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U. S. Friends of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Newsletter February 2016 Dear Friends, With 2015 now drawn to a close, we reflect back on what has been one of the most memorable years yet at the US Friends of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. This year we saw so much commitment- from new supporters just learning about the work of DSWT to long time followers re-energized and inspired to do more to support the elephants. We received call after call of supporters wanting to foster, to hold a fundraiser, to write a letter to their representatives- anything and everything to support the plight of the elephant. We are proud of the dedication and the passion that translated into action, and that action is now making a direct difference on the ground in Kenya, where needed most. Whether through a fundraiser, a stock transfer, a matching gift, or quarters collected from a lemonade stand, every cent matters, and has furthered the cause to ensure a future for elephants. Here are just a few of the ways your support mattered in 2015:  Donations received by US Friends in 2015 funded: Orphans' Project: Milk, milk and more milk! Funds also supported stockade expansions at the Nairobi nursery and Umani Springs Anti-Poaching Units: Establishment and operations expenses for the new Canine Unit, Academy training for 13 rangers, new ranger equipment Mobile Vet Teams: two fully equipped Land Cruiser vehicles for the Tsavo team, funding for Amboseli Vet Unit Aerial Surveillance: the purchase of a Cessna airplane for Aerial Surveillance unit and fuel to keep the planes in the sky Community Outreach: 300 school desks and the rebuilding of 3 classrooms in Nguluni Habitat Preservation: continued support of the Mwalunganje Elephant Sanctuary in Shimba Hills, construction of the 4th phase of the Kibwezi fence line, purchase or boreholes and windmills ...and so much more.  With your continuing dedication to DSWT's mission, we look forward to making an even bigger impact of support in 2016. Thank you for being an important part of the solution. Read on to learn more exciting news from the field, including most recently the birth of Inca, the first born of ex-orphan Icholta.  This is the 19th wild born baby for DSWT and another addition to ex-orphan Emily's growing herd.  Need a Valentine's Day gift?  With this special day just around the corner we have a couple of delightful ideas for you! Read on to learn more. We are ever grateful for your continued support that makes the lifesaving mission of The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust possible. It is your passion and commitment that helps ensure a safe future for elephants. We look forward to accomplishing many more milestones together in 2016 and beyond. With warm regards and best wishes, U.S. Friends of The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust A wild born calf for ex-orphan Icholta! Rescued 16 years ago at just a couple weeks old, we are delighted to report that ex-orphan Icholta has given birth to her first wild born calf.  Inca's birth is another much-celebrated, new addition to Emily's growing wild herd.  Watch the heartwarming video of Inca taking his first steps as he follows along with the herd, discovers his new surroundings, and receives a loving trunk nuzzle from mom.  Too sweet! First steps for Inca Wild herd in Tsavo Making an impact from the skies The aerial team at DSWT plays a vital role in the Trust's conservation work.  Not only do they conduct wildlife surveys and surveillance, but assist the Anti-Poaching and Mobile Vet teams with various tasks and transport.  They also play a role in helping to safely remove wildlife from potential human/wildlife conflict situations, thus improving the outcome for all involved.       During the month of January, DSWT pilots flew over 114 hours, covering over 9,700 miles.  Read how the  Aerial Surveillance Unit, comprised of light aircraft and a helicopter, are protecting wildlife from the skies. Dika at 3 months old. Mission Moments It was nearly 28 years ago when this three month old baby elephant lost his mother and herd to Somali ivory poachers.  Little Dika's herd was migrating from Tsavo West to Tsavo East when they were met with a hail of gunfire.  Dika's mother, along with several others were killed that day.  Amid the chaos, and very likely most desperately trying to stay near his mother, Dika was lost in a thicket of Acacia bushes and found near where his dead mother lay.  Being so young and milk-dependent, Dika would not have survived without his mother.      Dika today Dika came into the Trust's care and became a part of the nursery herd.  His loss weighed heavy on his soul and his depression was heartbreaking.  It took many months of unwavering love, care and companionship from Daphne, the Keepers and the other orphans before Dika came around.  He very gradually began to heal, both emotionally and physically, and the first time he joined in play was a day to celebrate.         It is with great pride and joy that the Trust shares that after all he's been through, today Dika roams the wild as a magnificent bull elephant. Read more about Dika's journey here DSWT Canine Unit Facilities Construction complete, training begins! Plans and preparations for the DSWT's Canine Unit to support and enhance the life-saving work of the Anti-Poaching Teams is making great progress and on schedule to launch this year. The kennels, housing and support buildings are complete, and the extensive training of the dogs and handlers is currently underway. The canine unit will provide vital support to the DSWT's existing nine Anti-Poaching Teams in Tsavo and beyond and we can't wait to put the dogs into action, elevating our anti-poaching efforts to the next level. Read the latest update.  Love Elephants? Consider sharing that love with your Valentine! Valentine's Day is just a few days away and we have a couple of perfect last minute gift ideas for that special valentine in your life!     What better way to share your passion and love for elephants than the precious gift of helping save a life. Fostering an orphan is a lovely way to say Happy Valentine's Day!    Does your valentine love jewelry?  From now until February 14th, designer Kathy Kamei is very generously donating 20% of sales from her entire line* of jewelry towards the DSWT's projects in Kenya.  And, if you purchase a piece from Kathy's unique elephant range, 100% of proceeds will be donated to support the Trust's conservation work!   Check out Kathy's unique line of jewelry here! *On completing your online order, please email Kathy Kamei Designs to let her know you are a DSWT supporter, triggering the 20% contribution!    U. S. Friends of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust 25283 Cabot Rd., Ste 101 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 317-969-8020 infous@sheldrickwildlifetrust.org Tax ID 30-0224549 www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org STAY CONNECTED:

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