Blog

As always, the relationships among the elephants here at sanctuary are evolving in interesting ways. This week, after Rana and Bambi had spent some time in the annex, they went out into Yard 4 where Guille was spending time. Rana, Bambi, and Mara all walked into the habitat and the energy was very relaxed. 

As Rana realized that her friends were nearby, she vocalized a little and began to approach them. At the same time, Guillermina was walking their way. The four of them got closer together and eventually gathered in a small circle, all very calm – just hanging out. There were a few trumpets (from Bambi) and lots of rumbles. It was a sweet moment. 

Previously when Guille would approach Rana and Mara, they tended to head in another direction because she didn’t always behave respectfully or appropriately. But in this instance, they stayed together and maintained a calm presence. Sometimes Guille would stand close to Mara and other times you can see that Bambi would walk over. 

Eventually Guillermina went her own way and the other three had a few moments of trumpeting and rumbling together. Eventually, all went in different directions as Guille went east, Bambi walked toward the pond, Rana headed towards the Lollipop Tree near Maia, and Mara stayed in the mud wallow, where they’d all gathered. This is a classic example of elephants coming together, then exploring, eventually finding one another later. Ultimately, it was nice to see them all be so calm and near Gulle, and to watch the progress she is making with understanding how to be a positive member of the herd, even with a younger elephant’s energy. It was a rare example where all was harmonious and the group congregated nicely.