Maggie's luggage arrives
by Steve Mac Donald
Full story: 2NEWS ktuu.com
ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- The Alaska Zoo took delivery this morning of a specially-made shipping crate that will house Maggie, Alaska's lone African elephant, during her trip to California.
Maggie is being relocated to an elephant sanctuary there after twice being unable to stand up on her own earlier this year.
The 10,000-pound steel crate is designed specifically for shipping elephants and contains restraining bars and heaters.
The crate is currently attached to Maggie's outdoor pen.
Zoo officials hope she'll grow accustomed to the container, which will make it easier when the time comes to move her into it.
The U.S. Air Force, which may ultimately provide the elephant's air service, was also on hand this morning doing its own inspection.
"This is a great opportunity to be involved in the local community and we're all looking forward to the opportunity," said Sr. Master Sgt. Jim Blakely of the 517th Aero Squadron.
The zoo hopes to have Maggie ready to fly to California sometime within the next three weeks.
Contact Steve Mac Donald at stevem@ktuu.com
