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Orphan season is upon us

As the rains arrive, so does one of our busiest and most challenging times at Lilongwe Wildlife Centre – ‘orphan season’. This period marks an influx of baby animals in desperate need of care. Kondwani Kusakala, our Deputy Head of Wildlife Rehabilitation, shares why this period is such a pivotal time of year, and how your support makes it all possible.

A critical time

“When the rains come, it’s always a whirlwind for our orphan care team,” Kondwani explains. “We receive an influx of baby animals – often scared, weak, or injured on arrival. Every moment counts to stabilise them.”

Many of these animals have been separated from their mothers due to habitat destruction, poaching, the illegal pet and bushmeat trades, extreme weather, or other accidents. They often arrive malnourished, dehydrated, or with injuries that require immediate attention. Assessing their condition is just the beginning of what can be a long journey toward recovery and eventual release back into the wild.

“It takes constant care,” Kondwani continues. “From bottle-feeding at all hours to monitoring their health and building personalised rehabilitation plans. But watching them grow stronger and form bonds with other animals is incredibly rewarding—it’s why we do what we do.”

What we need to save lives

Rehabilitating orphaned wildlife is no small task. It requires a dedicated team, specialised equipment, and a steady supply of resources. Donations play a crucial role in enabling this life-saving work.

“With your support, we’re able to stock up on critical supplies like specialised formula, medicines, bottles, and blankets,” Kondwani says. “It also helps us cover fuel costs, allowing our team to reach animals in urgent need, no matter how remote the location.”

Some orphaned animals – like hoglets – can often be released quickly; others – like primates – could be with us for years before they can be released. From maintaining safe enclosures to designing enrichment activities that encourage natural behaviours, every step of rehabilitation prepares these young animals for life in the wild.

Invaluable encouragement

While the work is rewarding, it can also be exhausting. Knowing that people care and are willing to help makes a world of difference to the team.

“Your support keeps our team going – it means we’re not alone in this,” Kondwani shares. “It reminds us that every life we save also matters to others. So thank you for helping us give these babies the best possible care, and a second chance at life.”

How your support helps

Every contribution makes a difference. Donations provide the resources needed to give these orphaned animals a fighting chance – whether it’s a blanket to keep an infant warm, a bottle of formula to keep them nourished, or fuel to rescue an animal in distress.

“Every contribution means a chance for another baby animal to survive – and hopefully be released back into the wild,” Kondwani says. “Please, if you can, donate today. Every little bit truly makes a difference.”

Your generosity could mean the difference between life and death for a wild animal – thank you for being part of their journey.