The Elephant Whisperer

“This is their story. They taught me that all life forms are important to each other in our common quest for happiness and survival. That there is more to life than just yourself, your own family, or your own kind.”

In the Prologue, Anthony reflects on what he learned from his time with the herd as he sets the context for the book. The overarching message is the importance of each living being within the larger ecosystem of the earth, and how Interconnectedness in Nature is the key to its survival.

“‘I’ve heard you have a way with animals,’ she continued. ‘I reckon Thula Thula’s right for them. You’re right for them. Or maybe they’re right for you.’”

Anthony asks Marion Garaï from the Elephant Managers and Owners Association why he has been approached to take in the herd, and she reveals that he has a reputation for having “a way with animals.” Even before he interacts with the herd, Anthony is already known for being able to connect with and care for animals. This validates the experiences he has with the herd and the reputation he later earns for being the “elephant whisperer.” It also introduces the theme of Bonding With Animals.

“The key was to involve local communities in all of the benefits and profits of conservation and eco-tourism. It was a hard, frustrating struggle but it had to be fought and won. Tribal cooperation was the key to Africa’s conservation health and we neglected that at our peril.”

Anthony reflects on how conservation efforts must necessarily involve local communities, like the Zulu tribes in Zululand, if the work is to be successful long term. Accordingly, Anthony continually makes an effort to inform and involve local communities in his work: Besides addressing the people at the Nkosi’s request about the Royal Zulu project, he also meets with local chieftains to debrief them about the elephants’ arrival and makes sure he employs people from the local communities on the reserve.