Bambi Braves the Creek, But Mara Calls

The rainy season hasn’t brought us quite as much rain as past years so far – though we just had a massive storm roll through, which is a wonderful sign. Wetter weather means greener grasses and more branches and vines and all of the things that are delicious to elephants.

We’ve been encouraging the ladies to explore areas they haven’t gone in a while, to check out the different kinds of grasses and generally find new places to wander. The north side of the creek in Yards 4 and 5 are perfect for snacking and exploring, so Scott crossed in Yard 4 to see if Bambi, Mara, and Rana would visit that section of the sanctuary. Maia likes it there and Rana has always enjoyed that part of the pasture; Ramba’s grave is also there.

Bambi and Rana have been going off on their own a bit more, with Bambi growing in confidence. But, of course, Mara is still a very important part of her day, so she doesn’t always stray too far. On this particular day, Rana and Bambi went down to the creek in Yard 4. Last year, Bambi seemed a little concerned about walking up and down the inclines leading to the creek. This year, she didn’t seem to have a problem at all, and she walked right down and up into the pasture for some snacking time. Until… Mara called Bambi back to her side. Bambi then dutifully climbed back down and up the slope to check on her friend.

In this video, you can see Bambi walk down the hill pretty quickly. And you can also see her leave the pasture and head back to the other side when her presence is requested by Mara. Listen for Mara’s trademark squeaks at the end and a little trumpet greeting from Bambi.

Comments(14)

John says
November 22, 2021 at 2:17 pm
Life’s a little different than at the Zoo, hey Bambi? ☀️
- REPLY
  Sara says
  November 22, 2021 at 3:06 pm
  We think she has learned that by now!
Nancy Shaw says
November 22, 2021 at 2:22 pm
This made me laugh out-loud. What is the bird?
- REPLY
  Sara says
  November 22, 2021 at 5:16 pm
  It’s one of the quail-type birds here at the sanctuary. Sorry I can’t get more specific than that!
Ellen Bollinger says
November 22, 2021 at 3:58 pm
True 💘
Beji says
November 22, 2021 at 4:16 pm
They are all just sweethearts. This Thanksgiving week, I’m thankful they are safe and happy and silly.
- REPLY
  Sara says
  November 22, 2021 at 5:16 pm
  What a wonderful sentiment. We are thankful for all of you.
Katie Howard says
November 22, 2021 at 4:45 pm
Heaven on earth! Appropriate, especially given that this is near Ramba’s gravesite. (I’m actually wearing my Ramba Effect tshirt right now, with tears in my eyes but a smile on my face, as I’m typing this.) ❤️🐘❤️
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  Sara says
  November 22, 2021 at 5:17 pm
  Ramba is still in all of our hearts. Thanks for remembering to smile, too.
Katie Howard says
November 22, 2021 at 4:48 pm
Look at her go! A far cry from the socially awkward elephant who arrived at GSE such a short time ago. Now she’s struggling to satisfy competing alliances! 😊
She looks amazing. Her physicality is impressive. Sooooo happy for her – and all the girls.
❤️
Barb says
November 22, 2021 at 5:12 pm
She who must be obeyed 🥰
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  Sara says
  November 22, 2021 at 5:16 pm
  It definitely works that way quite a bit.
Patricia J Richardson says
November 22, 2021 at 6:16 pm
Such a heart-warming story of Bambi venturing down to the creek and being called back by Mara — what a wonderful loving, loyal friendship for each of them. Thank you so much for sharing the backstory, and the approximate name of the bird! You all transport us to your world, as though it were part of our reality, too! Thank you!!! Happy Thanksgiving to you ALL!!!💜🎶🌐🌺🎈
Charlotte Hansen says
November 22, 2021 at 8:21 pm
This is very, very precious! Thank you for this great beginning to Thanksgiving week!

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