Elephant Havens- Featuring Angel and Matsaudi

7/17/2026

Elephant Havens Foundation in Maun has welcomed two new little elephants to its growing herd: Angel and Matsaudi. Both calves arrived under challenging circumstances, but they’re already thriving under the refuge’s care.

 

Angel (pictured to the right), at just eighteen months old, was found alone in Botswana’s panhandle after her mother likely succumbed to the region’s severe drought. Local residents spotted her wandering, and after several days of monitoring by Elephant Havens staff, and once it was clear that she was not going to be adopted by another elephant herd, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks approved her rescue. She arrived at Elephant Havens with a gentle nature, and quickly bonded with both her handlers and the other elephants, earning her name “Angel”. She’s now healthy, vocal, and never shy about asking for more milk.

 

Matsaudi (pictured below) came from a village only 25 minutes away. Her mother died after a conflict with a farmer, leaving the year‑old calf vulnerable and chased by people and dogs. Elephant Havens Co‑founder Boago “Bee” Poloko heard the commotion and, with DWNP’s help, brought her safely to Elephant Havens. Today, she’s settled, growing strong, and proudly playing big sister to Joy, another young orphan.

 

Their stories reflect the pressures elephants face from drought and human‑wildlife conflict — and the vital role Elephant Havens plays in protecting them. The foundation works closely with communities in the Delta, helping farmers cluster crops and build fencing, while teaching how to read elephant behavior and avoid unnecessary confrontation.

Angel and Matsaudi may have lost their mothers, but they’ve gained a safe, nurturing home — and a second chance — at Elephant Havens.

 

 

 

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