Ian Somerhalder Joins WildAid's 'Year of the Elephant' Campaign

Ian Somerhalder bonds with an orphaned elephant in Zimbabwe during a past trip.

The 37-year-old Vampire Diaries star has joined the effort to ensure that there are more elephants born this year than there are killed by poachers by partnering with WildAid’s “Year of the Elephant” campaign.

Ian recently told CNN that he became passionate about saving elephants when he bonded with one during his trip.

“I was staying in Zimbabwe in the bush at this incredible conservation institute,” Ian said. “Every morning I got to wake up and have my coffee with a young, orphaned elephant named Dojiwae. Both of her parents were killed by poachers unfortunately.”

Ian emphasized that not buying ivory products is one of the best ways to save elephants.