Elephant Diaries : Series 1 [DVD] [2005]

I first saw this documentary on Animal Planet. It introduced me to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust which I never heard of before. Because of this amazing film and the extremely important work of the dedicated people there, I am the proud foster parent of nine orphaned elephants and one blind year-old rhino. It pulls at your heartstrings. It's a wonderful film and an extraordinary wildlife orphanage.

I watched the first series of Elephant Diaries when it was shown on the BBC back in 2005 and eagerly awaited its release on DVD. It follows a year in the life of the orphaned baby elephants, cared for so incredibly by the Sheldrick Trust. The work of Dame Daphne Sheldrick, her family and all the keepers and staff at the Trust is simply awe-inspiring. Their dedication and devotion to the needy babies in their care is plain for all to see. Around half of the rescued babies will not make it to their second birthday - they are so vulnerable and have been through so much. But all the staff pick themselves up from the inevitable moments of heartbreak and go on because of those remaining who need them. The successes they have had over the years are a fitting tribute to the Trust and the work they do in raising these babies and caring from them at the orphanage and then one of the release sites as they take the steps needed to return to the wild to live as they were meant to - free and majestic and safe. The Trust are also involved in helping to protect all wildlife with their anti-snaring teams who search the bush for the evil snares that cause such hideously painful and unimaginable deaths. And they work hard to prevent poaching, which sadly still goes on and results in far too many orphans needing help. Since first seeing Elephant Diaires in 2005, I now foster 3 baby elephants and continue to support the Trust and all the amazing people who devote their lives to these magnificient, intelligent, fun and empathetic animals. Series 1 is superb and the DVD unmissable. I just hope that it will not be too long before Series 2 is released on DVD - and that the BBC follow up the stories of these delightful babies with Series 3. A must buy and a wonderful stocking filler for any animal lover.

I first watched this series on TV and, like the last reviewer, wanted to find out more about the work of the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. I and all my family now sponsor the Trust - thanks to this documentary series. Watch these gorgeous animals get through experiences (most of which humans could not possibly endure) and be rehabilitated by the wonderful people of the Trust. When you've watched it you'll want to give them all your money. If you want to find out more about the Trust's work, go to www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org.