May 16, 2025 - Ten years ago, four young elephants – Coconut, Peanut, Walnut and Macadamia – were rescued from a circus in Maharashtra, ending years of cruelty and confinement. Fondly known as the Nut Herd, these elephants became symbols of resilience and hope after arriving at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Hospital Campus (EHC) in Mathura in 2015.

This year, Wildlife SOS celebrates a decade of their freedom, friendship and transformation.

All four elephants were extremely young at the time of their rescue and had endured harsh training methods, long hours of forced performances and inadequate food and medical care. Their arrival at the sanctuary marked a turning point – not just in their lives, but in India’s growing awareness of the plight of captive performing elephants.

Affectionately named after tree nuts, each elephant brought their own quirks and charm to the herd. Coconut, the most mischievous of the group, quickly emerged as a spirited personality, while Macadamia and Walnut displayed strong bonds and gentle demeanours. Together, they spent their days enjoying mud baths, pool dips and foraging for hidden treats in their enrichments.

Today, the Nut Herd continues to thrive under expert veterinary supervision. Their health is routinely monitored through medical check-ups, personalised diets and enrichment-based activities that support their physical and emotional wellbeing.

To commemorate this special milestone, Wildlife SOS organised a vibrant fruit feast for the Nut Herd. A colourful spread of seasonal, juicy fruits like watermelons, pumpkin, papaya, banana and cucumber was thoughtfully cut and decoratively arranged for the elephants to enjoy. While Macadamia delighted in the fresh fruit spread, special cakes made from porridge, rice and fruits were lovingly prepared for Wally and Coco, adding a personal touch to this joyful celebration of their journey.

Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, shares, “The Nut Herd has been one of the most heartwarming stories in our history. Watching these young elephants evolve from frightened performers to confident individuals over the past decade has been truly remarkable.”

According to Dr Ilayaraja S, Deputy Director, Veterinary Services, Wildlife SOS, “Caring for the Nut Herd over the past decade has been both a challenge and a joy. Each elephant has unique needs and their health protocols are designed to support their ageing bodies while encouraging natural behaviours."

"Ten years ago, the Nut Herd arrived in desperate need of healing," says Geeta Seshamani, co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS, adding, "Today, they are living proof that with space, friendship and respect, even the deepest wounds can begin to mend. Their journey is a tribute to every life rescued and restored.”

About Wildlife SOS

Wildlife SOS was established in 1995 by a small group of people who wanted to make “lasting changes to protect and conserve India’s natural heritage, forest and wildlife wealth.” The group actively seeks to safeguard wildlife, conserve habitat, research, study biodiversity and develop sustainable alternative livelihoods for former populations that rely on wildlife for their livelihoods.

Mission of Wildlife SOS has three key areas of focus:

• Conservation and protection of wild populations and habitat
• Rescue of injured and displaced wildlife, and care for rehabilitated populations
• Research to better protect and care for wildlife