12K views · 527 reactions | In 2015, Nat Geo Photographer Charlie Hamilton James visited the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya to document his experience with orphaned elephants. Today, he reflects on his assignment and the critical role elephants play in our ecosystem. Video by Charlie Hamilton James. | National Geographic History | Facebook

From our Orphan Units and all of us at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, we would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas. To every person that has stood with us this year, we are enormously grateful for your steadfast support and generosity. You kindness during these times has been inspiring and humbling. As we watch over wildlife, and provide for the rescued elephants, rhinos, antelopes, buffaloes and warthog in our care, we are so very aware that it is with your help that we are able to offer the

Rise and shine with Chamboi! Did you know there are just 990 black rhinos in Kenya? This critically endangered species is working its way back from the brink — and orphans like Chamboi are the future. When grown, he will be reintegrated into a protected wilderness — but until then, he has a family and a home (and eye-catching red pyjamas!) with us. — If you’re looking for a meaningful, guaranteed-to-please, last-minute gift, look no further: Gifting the adoption of an orphaned elephant, rhino, o