This past weekend, African female elephant Mikki and Asian female elephant Punch had their first opportunities to meet African female residents Edie and Nosey through protected barriers in Hickory Habitat.
For these initial introductions, the habitat was divided to allow each elephant space to observe and interact at their own pace. Edie had access to the North Habitat and Alley, Nosey was in the Pond and Middle sections, and Mikki and Punch were in the South.
Nosey was the first to approach the shared fence line, though Mikki didn’t notice her right away and returned to the barn where Punch was. While Mikki and Punch were inside, Edie came to the South Alley gate. Mikki later exited the barn, saw Edie, and quickly approached the gate. Edie initially moved away but returned a short time later. By that time, Mikki had shifted her focus and engaged with Nosey across the barrier.
Eventually, Punch came outside and moved directly toward Edie. The two engaged in a calm trunk-to-trunk greeting. Edie then began to test Punch by continuing to intertwine trunks, but Punch responded assertively, prompting Edie to back off. After this brief exchange, Edie slowly left the area but was later seen watching from a distance and peeking through the barn flaps.
Nosey remained at the shared fence line for over two hours, engaging with both Mikki and Punch—together and individually. Mikki displayed typical boundary-testing behavior, including charging and testing the barrier with deliberate head movements. These types of actions are common during introductions and provide elephants with an opportunity to assess each other. Nosey stayed calm throughout, continuing to remain nearby and engaged.
Mikki also demonstrated some less typical—but not uncommon—behaviors such as pushing against a tree, lying down, and briefly sitting. At one point, Nosey mirrored Mikki’s behavior by lowering onto her carpi, similar to what she’s been observed doing with Artie and Osh in the past. While it’s difficult to interpret exactly what these behaviors indicate, Care Staff often refer to these moments as “goofy” or playful displays.
Punch and Nosey had a particularly calm and easygoing interaction. They spent time touching trunks and exploring one another through scent, with no displays of dominance from either elephant.
Care Staff shared that they were pleased with how these early introductions unfolded. While it was somewhat surprising that Edie chose to step away, she did so calmly. All interactions remained within expected behavioral ranges. These moments are just the beginning. Staff will continue to monitor interactions closely and ensure each elephant has the time and space they need as they adjust to their new social landscape.
Pictured at top: Edie and Punch