Visit Nairobi Animal Orphanage, a sanctuary within Nairobi National Park, is a conservation pioneer where visitors can engage with wild animals receiving a second chance at life.
Anticipate close-up experiences with some of Kenya’s unique fauna, including the rare sokoke cats as well as insights into vital rehabilitation efforts.
As part of the Nairobi National Park, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage prioritizes the conservation of Kenya’s wildlife.
The orphanage plays a pivotal role in rescuing and rehabilitating wild animals in need, focusing especially on Kenya’s native species.
This wildlife conservation center is a beacon of hope for numerous wild animals, providing them with a second chance at life amidst the African wild.
Every resident of the animal orphanage, be it the lion with its majestic roar or the various monkeys with their playful antics, has a unique tale to tell.
The orphanage hosts lions, rare Sokoke cats, serval cats, primates, and diverse bird species, all integral parts of this sanctuary.
Animals Found In The Orphanage
The Nairobi Animal Orphanage is a melting pot of various species, each with their unique traits and characteristics.
From regal lions, elusive leopards, and robust buffaloes to fleet-footed serval cats, the animal orphanage hosts a spectrum of mammals that are a sight to behold.
Not to mention, the facility is also home to different species of monkeys and baboons, their playful antics never failing to amuse visitors.
But the animal orphanage isn’t just about the common wild species. It also provides shelter to some rare and unique species.
One such resident is the Sokoke cat also known as the Khadzonzo cat or the African Shorthair. The rare Sokoke cats can be recognized for their striking appearance and fascinating history.
With a distinctive tabby coat featuring dark, swirling patterns against a sandy background, the rare Sokoke cats are often described as a “living artwork.” Their slender, agile build and keen, intelligent eyes reflect their wild ancestry and adaptability to its natural habitat.
Cat lovers are likely to be intrigued by the history of the rare Sokoke cats that are shrouded in mystery. Believed to be one of the oldest domestic cat breeds in existence, the Sokoke cat’s origins trace back to the coastal forests of Kenya, where it has thrived for centuries in harmony with its environment.
In recent years, the rare Sokoke cats have faced threats to their survival, including habitat loss, human encroachment, and interbreeding with domestic cats.
Recognizing the importance of conserving this rare and culturally significant breed, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage has played a vital role in safeguarding the Sokoke cat population and raising awareness about its conservation needs.
Visitors to the Nairobi Animal Orphanage have the opportunity to observe and learn about the rare Sokoke cats firsthand, gaining insight into their behavior, habitat, and conservation status.
Alongside these, the animal orphanage caters to other carnivores like cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals, ensuring they receive the necessary care and rehabilitation. This conservation facility is indeed a haven where diversity thrives, underlining the richness of Kenya’s wildlife.
Climate
Located in Nairobi National Park, the orphanage has the same climate conditions. The climate in the orphanage is dry except during the rainy season. Nairobi tends to be mild all year round, due to being at an elevation of 5450 feet.
From December to March, the average temperatures are 77-82 F (25-28 C) during the day. At night, the temperatures decrease to 55 F (13 C). This is the best time to enjoy a warm spring.
July to September are the cooler dry months, the average day temperatures range between 70-77 F (21-25 C), and decrease at night to 52 (11 C).
The area experiences two rainy seasons. The long season is from mid-March to May while the short one is from late October to November and December.
Rehabilitation Journey
At the heart of the Nairobi Animal Orphanage’s mission is the animal rehabilitation program.
This initiative is aimed at rescuing animals, providing them with necessary medical treatment, and preparing them for eventual release back into their natural habitats.
Under the rehabilitation program, each animal taken in by the Nairobi animal orphanage undergoes a comprehensive medical evaluation and receives specific treatment.
They are then placed in an individual rehabilitation program designed to facilitate their successful return to the African wild. Park rangers release healthy animals back to the Nairobi National Park to continue their lives.
The orphanage, acting as a treatment and rehabilitation center, maintains detailed records of each animal’s rehabilitation journey, documenting their:
- rescue
- illness or injury
- treatment
- recovery process
Success stories, such as that of Nkachau, a rehabilitated buffalo orphan, serve as shining examples of the conservation and rehabilitation efforts at the Nairobi animal orphanage.
It’s a testament to the resilience of these animals and the tireless efforts of the rehabilitation center to give them a new lease on life.
Best Times to Visit Nairobi Animal Orphanage
Timing your visit right can significantly enhance your experience at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage.
The dry seasons, typically from January to March and July to October, offer favorable viewing conditions. They are generally the best times to visit the orphanage and the Nairobi National Park beyond.
To maximize your chances of observing the animals in action, consider visiting early in the morning or during feeding times. These are the times when the animals are most active, providing an exciting spectacle for visitors.
