A Day in the Life at Elephant Havens: Colleen’s Journey with Orphaned Elephants

In this heartwarming short film, Colleen invites us into the world of orphaned baby elephants and the compassionate care they receive at Elephant Havens. From the crack of dawn, she’s there — bottle in hand, ready to feed and comfort the little ones who have already faced unimaginable loss. These young elephants, each with their own painful past, find solace in Colleen’s gentle touch and unwavering love. Their journey to healing begins with each nourishing sip, each affectionate pat, and each moment of trust built between them.

As the day unfolds, Colleen leads the elephants in their daily routine. Playtime in the mud isn’t just about fun; it’s a critical part of their physical and emotional development. The splashes and tumbles serve to strengthen their bodies and build camaraderie. But it’s during the quiet walks that the true depth of their bond becomes evident. Colleen guides them with calm authority, her steps sure and steady, as they follow her like a family of their own. It’s during these walks that the orphaned elephants truly find their footing — not just in the physical world, but in the emotional world too.

Handling elephants, especially orphans, is no simple task. It demands not only physical strength but also an immense amount of patience, emotional intelligence, and love. Colleen embodies all of these qualities, proving that the heart of elephant care is not just physical nourishment but also emotional connection. The trust she nurtures with each elephant is the foundation of their healing journey — a bond that helps them grow strong and confident, ready for the day they will be able to return to the wild.

Outside the sanctuary, Colleen’s work continues as she collaborates with the local village to prevent human-elephant conflicts. Her dedication to conservation extends beyond protecting wildlife; she believes in fostering a harmonious relationship between humans and animals. She knows that true conservation isn’t just about protecting elephants in isolated sanctuaries — it’s about creating a balance that allows both people and elephants to thrive together.

At Elephant Havens, the relationship between handler and elephant is built on trust, love, and mutual respect. This deep connection allows the orphaned elephants to grow strong, both in body and spirit. With Colleen’s guidance, these once-lost souls are on a journey of recovery, one step at a time, moving toward a future where they can one day roam free in the wild again — where they truly belong.

Colleen’s unwavering dedication to these elephants is a reminder that the greatest gift we can offer is love, and that love can heal even the deepest of wounds.