Two sad words: orphan elephants. But there's something we can all do. First, become informed. Second, take action. Third, stay updated. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust runs the world's most successful elephant orphanage in Kenya's Nairobi National Park. Though the reason for the orphanage's existence is utterly depressing, it is an inspiring story nonetheless. If you're child wrangling, National Geographic Kids' site has a nice African elephant section. And for good measure, here's an easy way to make elephant ear cookies.
ciao-meow/GGCM
(photograph by Michael Nichols via National Geographic. Read his notes on which elephant photograph means the most to him & why.)