A Snack in the Grass

Today has been a big day for exploration. Pupy has ventured farther than ever into the habitat. She’s taking advantage of the trees, brush, and grass that surrounds her. As you know, she was a baby when she was taken from Africa, so she’s likely not had such an opportunity to eat and knock little trees down so freely. (Don’t worry–there are plenty of trees in the habitat.)

This video shows Pupy in the middle of Yard 1, tearing tall grass from the roots. She’s not used to doing it so she’s experimenting with different techniques. The smaller grass is taking more time than the higher sections and she’s picking up blades in small tufts. She’s figured out how to get mouthfuls of shoulder-high grass in one big rip.

We couldn’t be prouder of this brave girl who has stepped outside of her comfort zone one careful step at a time. It takes a lot of courage to explore a whole new world after 30 years of confinement. But you’ll notice that she has become more “elephant” very quickly. Anyone who witnesses such a quick return to natural behaviors can see that elephants just know how to go back to nature if just given a chance.

Comments(20)

Cathe Cracknell says
April 21, 2025 at 7:36 pm

So happy for her! ❤️
Tammy says
April 21, 2025 at 7:49 pm

Wow, she is in heaven this is fantastic Pupy has her very own smorgasbord on the sanctuary property you go girl enjoy! Love and hugs 💗🐘🦋
Ines says
April 21, 2025 at 7:54 pm

Amo a Puppy!!!!!!!! Es hermoso verla así💚🤍
Andy says
April 21, 2025 at 7:57 pm

Pupy you already are showing us your true natural Elephant self and it’s wonderful to see.
Audrey says
April 21, 2025 at 8:05 pm

She looks less stressed
She has found her peace.
Carole Pittaway says
April 21, 2025 at 8:05 pm

Just amazing to see how well she is doing, carry on with the excellent work you are doing❤️
Patricia says
April 21, 2025 at 8:16 pm

Pupy! You are so beautiful and inspiring! Thrilled that you are having a good time and so grateful you are here. Sending all my love, every minute. xoxoxo
Charlotte says
April 21, 2025 at 8:51 pm

I’m so happy for her!!
- REPLY
  Bonnie says
  April 22, 2025 at 12:54 am
  
  pupy is having the time of her life like a little kid in a candy store 😇
June H. says
April 21, 2025 at 9:31 pm

Go Pupy! ❤️🐘❤️ I love hearing how well Pupy is adjusting to life at the sanctuary and doing all the “elephant things” she’s never been able to do before!❤️🐘❤️
Nancy Crider says
April 21, 2025 at 9:45 pm

So heartening to see her enjoying the life of a free elephant! Go Pupy!!
Sue says
April 21, 2025 at 9:48 pm

So happy for Pupy and everyone involved in her move. The natural instincts of these beautiful elephants that come out when they get to sanctuary never ceases to amaze me and is incredible to witness. Thanks again for all you do to make the lives of the Sanctuary residents as wonderful as possible and allowing them to be themselves. Love and hugs! ❤️🐘❤️
Carmen says
April 22, 2025 at 12:21 am

It is truly amazing how different Pupy looks just a few days at sanctuary!!! She is an entirely different elephant!!
Wim says
April 22, 2025 at 2:12 am

Dear Pupy, your a treat for the eyes. How fast is Sanctuary life growing on you!
Nelson Courser says
April 22, 2025 at 6:01 am

Filled with emotions – beautiful video = thank you!
Julie says
April 22, 2025 at 11:27 am

Lovely Pupy, enjoy those fresh yum-yums from sanctuary!
JoAnn Merriman-Eaton says
April 22, 2025 at 3:30 pm

So much joy Pupy brings! Her happiness, her progress is what everyone dreamed of while waiting for the planning and red tape to be approved. To think of her kidnapped as a baby now 30 years old, and never having greenery to forge, trees to knock down, a mud wallow, scratchy trees, or free to come and go as she pleases , gives testament that #sanctuaryheals. How I wish this for every captive elephant. Eternally grateful for every single person that donates, and every single person at GSE that works each and every day to care for “the girls”. 🐘❤️
alana says
April 22, 2025 at 5:43 pm

As a self proclaimed tree hugger I never thought I would be so happy to see a trees demise but you go Pupy!
- REPLY
  Sara says
  April 22, 2025 at 5:49 pm
  
  Who would have guessed that we’d be celebrating trees getting knocked down on Earth Day! 😂
Finn Jørgensen Lock says
April 30, 2025 at 5:10 pm

She’s growing, yes😀🐘💖💕

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