August at The Elephant Sanctuary
Debbie
Over the course of summer, Quarantine Habitat Caregivers observed signs of Debbie (pictured above) and Ronnie’s nighttime visits to the “South Pond” atop a ridge a half mile away from the barn. With the recent arrival of cooler temperatures, Debbie and Ronnie are making the trip to the pond during the day also. Debbie and Ronnie have also been spending a lot of time in the mud-wallows closer to the barn. The diversity and space of their habitat allows them to choose from several options when they are in the mood for a swim.
Liz (our second oldest elephant at 59) is the focus of attention from Veterinary and Care staff. Over the course of the past few weeks, the Caregivers have noted Liz slowing down. She has been showing less interest in her habitat and unlike the other elephants, Liz has not been seeking out shade or partaking in the water/showers that are offered to her throughout the day. Staff also report Liz is socializing less with Billie. The Sanctuary’s Veterinary and Care Team, concerned by these changes, have moved Liz to the Phase I Quarantine Barn and Habitat so her health can be closely monitored and any signs of discomfort can be quickly addressed. Liz is still within sight of the other elephants in the recently renovated Phase I barn and habitat. Caregivers are lavishing her with special treats and encouragement (offering Liz the water hose, which she then holds with the tip of her trunk to spray water into her own mouth)and Liz seems content to be the recipient of this extra attention.
Liz
Tarra (L) and Shirley
Perhaps motivated by the cooler temperatures, the Asia Habitat elephants are also traveling more extensively. As per usual, Tarra seems to seek out the company of the other elephants. Over the course of one recent night, she traveled up the “Lake Road” area with Misty, then made a big detour north through the area known as “Marcella’s Field” only to reappear for a visit with Sissy and Winkie at the “2nd Pipeline” area the following morning. All three got excited and had a noisy reunion,” said Caregiver Kristy, Sissy popping her trunk and Tarra barking and spinning while backing up to Winkie for a hello.”
Winkie (L) and Sissy
She then headed back to “Right Field” where she met up with Shirley, with whom she’s been spending a lot of time. The duo has been spotted all over the place – “Oak Tree Pasture,” “Turtle Pond,” “Left Field,” and even wading in the lake.
Misty
Misty has also been on the move. She was spending time near the barn, then one day this week, she was spotted at the lake first thing in the morning, having made the mile-long walk (accompanied by Tarra) over the course of the evening.
Flora
At Africa Habitat, Tange and Flora have been moving together from one end of the habitat to the other, digging new mud-holes for nature to fill with rain.
Tange
Thank you all for your support during World Elephant Day!
Even though World Elephant Day has passed, every day is a day that you can use your voice to help elephants in the wild and in captivity!