In nature, a baby rhino and a zebra foal might never cross paths. But at the Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary in South Africa, two young orphans have found something neither of them expected — comfort, friendship, and healing in each other’s company.
Daisy’s Rescue
In early December, rangers at Kruger National Park discovered a newborn rhino calf alone and barely clinging to life. Just a few hours old, weak, and vulnerable, the calf — later named Daisy — was quickly airlifted by helicopter to the sanctuary’s ICU.
There, she received around-the-clock care: constant feeding, immune-boosting treatments, and help regulating her body temperature. Daisy was fighting for her life.
An Unexpected Companion
But Daisy wasn’t the only fragile newcomer in the intensive care unit.
A few days earlier, a zebra foal named Modjadji had been brought in. Found motionless and barely breathing after a severe storm, she was thought to be just a week old. Like Daisy, Modjadji needed emergency care — and, like Daisy, she was utterly alone.
What happened next was something no one could have predicted.
Healing Through Friendship
“As they grew stronger and braver, their curiosity got the best of them, and they started interacting with each other,” said Louwhen Bowker, a spokesperson for the Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary. “Rhinos are very social animals and require companionship. Modjadji is fantastic company for Daisy and very affectionate towards her.”
The baby zebra and rhino quickly formed a deep bond. Wherever Daisy goes, Modjadji follows. They sleep side by side at night, bringing each other warmth, security, and the kind of comfort only a friend can offer.
Their connection is more than heartwarming — it’s therapeutic.
“Modjadji provides round-the-clock companionship,” Bowker added. “This helps reduce Daisy’s need for human contact, which is important for her future release into the wild.”
A Future Full of Hope
Though they come from different worlds, Daisy and Modjadji now walk the same path. One day, they’ll be strong enough to return to the wild — Daisy to join other rhinos, Modjadji among zebras. But for now, they have each other.
Their friendship reminds us that healing often happens through connection — and that family doesn’t always look the way we expect.
To support orphaned wildlife like Daisy and Modjadji, consider donating to the Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary.
