This year marks 30 years for The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. As we reflect on the incredible elephants who have made The Sanctuary home and the many milestone accomplishments made possible by our supporters, we look ahead to a future filled with exciting growth and thoughtful change.
Everything we do continues to be guided by our commitment to elephants. As we evolve, we are working to better reflect the changing dynamics of our herds, enhance the spaces for the remarkable elephants in our care, and collaborate with others on improved welfare and conservation for all elephants. To represent the individuality and ever-evolving relationships among our resident elephants, The Sanctuary’s Staff and Board made the decision to rename the elephant barns and habitats. We are excited to introduce:
- Sycamore Barn and Habitat (formerly Q Barn)
- Hickory Barn and Habitat (Asia Barn)
- Redbud Barn and Habitat (Africa Barn)
- Buckeye Barn and Habitat (Bull Barn)
- Willow Barn and Habitat at the Elephant Health Care Center
These new names better reflect the elephants’ social dynamics and our mission to provide them with autonomy and opportunities for connection. In a nod to the land that nurtures The Sanctuary, each barn and space is named after a local native tree, symbolizing strength, growth, and the deep, interconnected roots that mirror the elephants’ own bonds. This choice honors not only the elephants’ unique identities but also our commitment to preserving and protecting the natural world that supports them.
In addition to renaming current spaces, we are also thrilled to be expanding and enhancing habitats that support natural herd structures and social interaction. The goal is to encourage more movement across our 3,060 acres in the hills of Tennessee, offer shared spaces for time together, and provide opportunities for elephants to explore their autonomy.
A 130-acre habitat expansion is currently underway, and once completed, this area—featuring a large pond, automatic waterers, 12 acres of open pasture surrounded by hardwood and pine forests, and 8,000 feet of fencing—will offer even more room for exploration and connection. Designed for both male and female elephants, the new space will be monitored by two new camera towers to allow Care Staff to oversee elephant safety and comfort and provide new EleCam views for supporters!
This expansion also allows currently occupied land to rest and regenerate, promoting healthy tree and plant growth and increasing flexibility in land management. With every acre, we’re creating more opportunities for elephants to live as they choose.