At a wildlife nursery in Kenya, two orphaned babies from very different species have become unlikely best friends.
Wangalla, a young African elephant, and Bumpy, a rescued baby hippo, are spending their early days side by side in a friendship that has become one of the most heartwarming sights at the sanctuary.
What's happening?
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust took Wangalla in during November when she was about a week old, and she is now 8 months old. Bumpy is 3 months old and came to the nursery after a rescue in May, according to AOL.
Their daily routine includes dirt play, naps, and staying close to each other around the nursery.
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust posted a video on Instagram showing Wangalla flopping around before bed as Bumpy answers with soft nudges.
The friendship of these baby animals is adorable; however, the trust notes how their bond may not last indefinitely. As they get older, instinct will lead each back to its own species, with Wangalla eventually joining an elephant herd and Bumpy living among other hippos.
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Why does it matter?
Beyond food, medicine, and physical protection, orphaned animals also need to feel safe in their new environment and have routine and comfort as they recover from trauma.
The process is far from quick. According to the trust's updates, elephant calves may need roughly 8 to 10 years before they can live on their own, while hippos often make that transition in about 3 to 5 years.
Giving vulnerable young animals a real chance to return to the wild helps preserve species and support healthier ecosystems.
One follower wrote, "How sweet is this! And how fulfilling for the keepers and all of you seeing your work succeed so well. Kudos to all! Love these two—all the thriving animals!"
What's being done?
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is doing the slow, hands-on work that successful wildlife rehabilitation requires: rescue, round-the-clock care, and social support until animals are strong enough to return to the wild.
For Wangalla and Bumpy, that means a nursery environment where they can rest, play, and form bonds while their keepers monitor their development. Even if the friendship will not last forever, a companionship like this can help both animals feel secure during an especially fragile stage of life.
That care is giving two orphaned animals the safety, comfort, and support they need to heal and grow.
As one Instagram user put it in the comments: "A pair of sturdy little cuties! Love their friendship."
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