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Bambi’s Grounded Presence

Over time we’ve witnessed Bambi becoming more settled into daily life in general, finding a comfortable pace and a secure spot within the herd. She seems to be becoming softer and looking at us more during treatments, as if to really see us, perhaps to a depth that only elephants can. It appears she’s wanting to engage somewhat differently and expressing a renewed level of enjoyment with the world around her in general. Recently, we were doing maintenance foot treatment and she was very rumbly and soft and felt connected to the moment – relaxed with the process and enjoying the time. This felt like a slightly new vibe from Bambi, who once struggled with learning to match her energy with that of others.

In the past, Bambi has not been completely at ease when walking through the chute of the treatment annex. But this week she stopped and let Scott touch all over her side as she walked through the chute and into the grazing area. She stood along the fence and was relaxed enough that she allowed him to check for ticks and generally touch her in a gentle way. Scott wasn’t asking for this behavior. Rather, it was just a moment of quiet and calm between the two of them. She was rumbly and passive. It was just another small moment where we are seeing Bambi seeking connection, whether it’s with people or with other elephants in the group. 

Photo of Bambi with Rana in the background

Comments(15)

  1. REPLY
    Melinda says

    Wonderful development! I love that Bambi bug so much!

  2. REPLY
    Debbie Sides says

    Such a good girl. Getting really comfortable with life that only true sanctuary gives. So happy she’s there living her best life💚

  3. REPLY
    Sharon says

    This is great to know. Love Bambi. I love. Them all. Maybe she is finally settled in her forever home xxx

  4. REPLY
    Carol says

    Small steps…lovely development.

  5. REPLY
    Irene Olson says

    Awesome job sweet Bambi! So proud!😘🤗🤩

  6. REPLY
    Alana says

    There must be something wonderful in the air!

  7. REPLY
    Carmen Dalziel says

    Bambi is my fav! She’s feeling sweet contentment

  8. REPLY
    Tracy H says

    So great to hear about our sweet Bambino. Lots of love for this special girl. Also, looking good Rana! I like big butts and I can not lie😂😂😂😂🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘 love my Rana.

  9. REPLY
    Charlotte Hansen says

    Beautiful!!!

  10. REPLY
    Patricia says

    What a wonderful story! 💖💖💖

  11. REPLY
    Bonnie says

    She’s come a long way and from reading what you saided about her and Scott I think she hasn’t forgot what Scott did for her and her mom getting them out of that place I believe no animal ever forgets the difference between a good and bad person

  12. REPLY
    Robin Vitulle says

    What a very special moment for Scott…and Bambi. That would have brought some major tears of emotions from me and I’m sure Scott was feeling it big time. The connection felt while in the presence of an elephant that is truly happy, is a feeling I’ll never forget and want to have over and over again. You must get so many of those moments at GSE with all of the VERY HAPPY girls that are under your tender loving care. Just BEAUTIFUL.

  13. REPLY
    Sheila says

    NICE…BIG BAMBI GAL IS GETTING MORE SUBDUED IN HER EXHUBERANT BEHAVIORS. ALTHOUGH I LOVED THE *BIG PUPPY BAMBI GIRL* THAT WAS ABIT OF A PANICKER IF SHE COULDNT SEE MARA AND RANA. SHES GRASPED THAT THERE IS A CODE IF CONDUCT IN A HERD. AWESOME. ….BUT I SURE ENJOYED THE BIG Puppy girl antics!!

  14. REPLY
    Carey says

    The deep trauma of her past life really seems to be shifting, thank goodness, it must be pretty amazing to witness. It’s surely hard to know who on earth you are supposed to be for captive elephants in entertainment business. I wonder if the the phrase “ forgive them, they know not what they do” is appropriate

  15. REPLY
    Melinda says

    Carey, I believe on some level you are correct. Elephants are so intelligent, sentient and forgiving they probably intuitively know all that. At least I hope and pray they do.

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