Discovering the “Itchy Scratchy Tree” is somewhat of a rite of passage for elephants who are new to the sanctuary in Brazil. After being so well loved by 7 elephants at this point (and falling victim to a storm), we are amazed that it’s still around to welcome the 8th and 9th: Pocha and Guillermina. This video – with no sound, since it was taken from our observation camera – shows Guillermina’s first encounter with the tree that we know of.
The two elephants are taking part in their favorite activity – dusting themselves in a dirt pile. Guille seems to get a little silly, giving herself a satisfying trunk scratch on the tree. Then she gets extra playful by lying down in the dirt and rolling around. You can see exactly how round her belly is in the video; it’s hilariously adorable. Just another moment of two elephants enjoying some of the many things that sanctuary provides on a daily basis.
Comments(19) 




















- PO Box 2426
- Brentwood, TN 37024
- (615) 435-9523







- Ways to Support
- GSE Merchandise
- Privacy Policy
Title USD
June Ross says
May 31, 2022 at 2:06 pmThey both look so gleeful! I wish I could crawl into their brains to see what they are thinking with all of this new found freedom. Amazing!
Kayle says
May 31, 2022 at 2:11 pmAs always, so heartwarming they are quickly discovering the “rite of passage”
Claudia says
May 31, 2022 at 2:13 pmAdorable!
Deb says
May 31, 2022 at 2:39 pmI am sooo happy for them!
💝🐘💝🐘
Pam says
May 31, 2022 at 2:39 pmWhat joy to watch this video! They are both so relaxed and at ease with their new world. Thank you, GSE, for giving them a new life!
Sherry says
May 31, 2022 at 3:29 pmFinally, loving life!!!! Thank you, ESB!!!😎🌺❤️
Susan says
May 31, 2022 at 3:39 pmOMG, this is so fantastic!! I have been waiting for an Itchy Scratchy Tree encounter with one or both of these girls!! Like you said, it seems somewhat a rite of passage to experience the enjoyment of this beloved tree!!! And when our cutie pie sat down, I just about burst with joy, could she be any more adorable?? Thank you for sharing, I love these moments!! Love and hugs! ❤️🐘❤️
Charlotte Hansen says
May 31, 2022 at 3:44 pmHappiness beyond their wildest dreams! I’m so happy for them!!
Nancy says
May 31, 2022 at 3:52 pmThis is truly a momentous occasion. To think that after so many years of doing without such natural things they take to it like they’ve always known how
Barb says
May 31, 2022 at 4:01 pmThe tree is a bit magical and so are the moments you share with us!
katherine says
May 31, 2022 at 4:44 pmwonderful to watch this. thank you for all that you do.
Elizabeth says
May 31, 2022 at 4:45 pmSo happy they are having fun! I think the itchy scratchy tree trunk needs a bath. I thought the bark was rubbed off, but I think it is dirt caked on there. Hmmmm, not sure.
Sara says
May 31, 2022 at 5:17 pmI think it’s a little bit of both.
jean says
May 31, 2022 at 5:15 pmAdorable💞💞
John says
May 31, 2022 at 6:23 pmI can’t wait until they discover THE POND! OMG!
Patricia says
May 31, 2022 at 10:03 pmYes! Hilariously adorable and adorably hilarious! I am so madly in love with them! 💖🌸💖
Sheila says
June 1, 2022 at 5:34 pmBRAVO TO GUILLE. SHE LOOKS VERY HAPPY SCRATCHING. ILL BET SHE WILL USE THIS VERY OFTEN. SHELL FEEL BETTER THAN THE
CEMENT WALL.SCRATCH. LOVE THE UPDATED ON THESE LADIES. THEY R UNOLDING LIKE A FLOWER BUD🐘🐘🌻
Anita J says
June 2, 2022 at 8:41 pmThat was such a sweet, joyful footage! Another milestone achieved! Another very important activity discovered! Their lives are so rich now in this amazing landscape. Forever grateful here for all you work. Thank you
Tracy H says
June 2, 2022 at 9:57 pmSo happy these 2 lady 🐘 are now experiencing life as it should be. They look amazingly happy and couldn’t get any cuter. I love them all and can’t thank you enough for what you do for all these majestic beauties. It’s truly a blessing and calling to be able to work with these special girls. Thank you Scott and Kat for loving them as they should be loved🐘🐘🐘
Subscribe to our Blog
Shop & Support Elephants
Visit our online store and and help spread the word about the need for sanctuary for captive elephants.
Give Through Our Wishlist
Shop and choose a treat or much-needed item for one of the elephants.
Categories
Archives
Global Sanctuary for Elephants
Stay connected with our herd
MISSION: Protecting, rescuing, and providing sanctuary for elephants worldwide.
Global Sanctuary for Elephants is a 501 (c)(3) tax exempt, public charity status (EIN 46-3564818) and all contributions are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.
© Global Sanctuary for Elephants. All Rights Reserved
Your ticket for the: Guillermina Discovers the Itchy Scratchy Tree
Guillermina Discovers the Itchy Scratchy Tree