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And Then There Were Three

 

Sometimes when you are feeding the girls, you will already have both Maia and Guida in your sights, but then up pops Rana. This was one of those nights. Maia and Guida were being fed out by the pond when we noticed Rana show up as well. The first two ladies were fed closer to the fence, while Rana was fed about 20 yards further in.

After Maia was done, she went over and helped Guida clean her plate a bit. After a bit, Guida went to walk away and noticed Rana and went over to her. They quietly stood, side by side, grazing for quite some time. During this time, Maia was still somewhat by the fence, grazing on her own. She then walked over to join Maia and Guida.

Scott switched from video to take some photos and Guida took two quick steps towards Rana, but since Maia was in the middle, she’s the one who got bumped. It caused Rana to keep her back to them for a moment or two, but then ended up side by side again before we left.

We were actually about to leave when Maia started to head over, and we stayed to see the immediate interaction. We’ve stated before that we tend to not stick around when the ladies are all together because it seems like Guida acts out when her humans are around. Her behavior was all about being the ‘big girl’ when she’s actually the smallest. Physically it’s insignificant, enough so that Maia didn’t even respond except to squish in closer. It’s still about posturing for Guida, and it doesn’t bother Rana enough for her to even step away. It’s not perfect, but hopefully, all of the girls are learning in ways that will help with the next arrivals.

Guida has to find a little more security in her smaller stature and understand she doesn’t have to act out to be respected. Maia seems to be learning she can go off on her own, but also has the ability to be a bit of a peacemaker. Rana is adjusting to all forms of elephant communication, and learning her boundaries are not always shared by others.

This is all part of sanctuary: taking in elephants that have forgotten how to be elephants, and allowing them a safe and protected space to learn what that means again.

June 20, 2019

Comments(5)

  1. REPLY
    Maggie says

    So beautiful, 3 fabulous girls in such a heavenly home. Perfect. ??????

  2. REPLY
    Kelejan says

    All this is so fascinating, and in many way equates with humans. Next Monday I will fly to England to meet the members of my paternal family who are now in my life.; a brother and his wife, their daughter and their grandson. I will think of our elephants learning their place in the group and getting along and i will be in a similar position and thinking of our elephants. I will be back at the end of July so see what has developed.

  3. REPLY
    Sue says

    Thank you! So exciting to watch (many times ?), but I especially enjoyed reading your post. You two humans are quite amazing. Love reading about all the different personalities at sanctuary and the insights you share with us. TY! ❤️?❤️?❤️?❤️???

  4. REPLY
    Debbie Sides says

    This heavenly place is home tor the lovely girls. Closest thing to a herd they’ll ever have again and I think they are happy to be safe & loved.♡

  5. REPLY
    Sherry says

    It is good to know about the lives of the elephants at the sanctuary. The elephants love their lives there and this is obvious.
    Thank you, sanctuary from your fans and the elephants too!!!!

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