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Happy 2nd Re-Birthday, Mara!

Two years ago today… That’s when Miss Mara arrived at Elephant Sanctuary Brazil and embraced her new home with seeming relief, resting her tired body for an immediate dirt-pile nap

After creating a strong bond with Rana in those early days, she settled into sanctuary life and her spunky personality began to emerge. By the time Bambi arrived and started to understand what her own new life could be, the three friends became close – particularly Mara and Bambi. These days, Mara can call Bambi to her side with just a single squeak

Mara’s life has not been without challenges, and she faced some tough days dealing with gastrointestinal issues during her first year at sanctuary. Over the many months since then, she has rebounded and begun to enjoy eating food enthusiastically. For quite a while, Mara preferred to take her meals in the treatment chute at the barn so she could prevent her friends, Bambi and Rana, from “sharing” her dinner. These days, the girls have an understanding: nobody gets near Mara’s food during mealtimes. She’s gained a significant amount of weight and looks healthier in every way. 

Once seemingly cautious around Maia, lately Mara has begun to let Maia into her circle of friends; though Maia doesn’t often get too close to Mara, Mara has shown no issues with sharing space. This shows how much she’s grown emotionally in the last two years. Of course, she is still our cheeky girl who loves to party; Rana and Bambi are always happy to oblige and respond with trumpets and rumbles whenever they hear Mara’s distinctive squeak. 

Each elephant we’ve known has taught us something about what it means to be caregivers, and how to listen and respond to their needs. Mara is sometimes a sneaky girl who has kept us on our toes – but she’s helped us learn more about emotional bonds, 24-hour nurturing, and the importance of being open with elephants each day. We look forward to each new day with her. Happy Re-Birthday, Mara!

Comments(23)

  1. REPLY
    Melinda says

    Happy Re-Birthday Sweet Mara! Looking forward to reading about your antics for many years to come!

  2. REPLY
    JamesMichael says

    Happy 2nd Re-Birthday, Sweet Girl…and many, many more xoxox

  3. REPLY
    Angela L Kirk-Ashby says

    Well done Mara. Ive watched you grow for the 2 years. Happy freedom birthday

  4. REPLY
    Allison says

    Happy Birthday sweetheart 😘

  5. REPLY
    Linda says

    Happy 2nd Re-Birthday Mara!!! Many more to come! The healing powers of Sanctuary, freedom, and Ele companionship is so evident in this beautiful girl as she continues to grow and thrive along with all the lovely Ele ladies. Thanks to everyone there and elsewhere who make this happen… but it’s the day-to-day care, dedication and love that is so amazing.

  6. REPLY
    Tammy says

    Happy Happy Re-Birthday sweet Mara! Enjoy your day with the girls have tons of fun eat lots of goodies take a nice mud bath then a long nap you definitely deserve it! Lots of love and big ele hugs 🥳💞🤗

  7. REPLY
    Elizabeth says

    Happy re-birthday Mara!! Her dirt pile nap, upon arrival, was perfect. So fun to see her enjoying her new life.

  8. REPLY
    Rachel says

    Wow, time sure does fly by. Two years already!! Happy, Happy Birthday Sweet Mara – may you enjoy many more with friends by your side, experiencing more healing and a happy spirit. Love you sweetheart. 💝

  9. REPLY
    Alana says

    Happy Birthday Mara, guess what you get for your birthday, 2 new friends to join the herd & my guess is lots of birthday treats.

  10. REPLY
    Cintia Abney says

    Mara linda MARAvilhosa.. feliz aniversario de chegada 😘

  11. REPLY
    Susana Tejedor says

    Cumplimos el mismo día Mara.
    Estoy feliz viendo como encontraste tu lugar en el mundo

  12. REPLY
    Audrey says

    Happy 2nd Re-birthday Mara. You’re looking as awesome as ever. Living there has made a world of difference.
    Love you,
    Audrey

  13. REPLY
    Charlotte Hansen says

    It’s hard to believe it’s been 2 years already! Mara was my second time to watch a new arrival happen. And now we have another squeaker–I’m guessing her new sisters will be able to tell the difference between Mara’s squeaks and Guille’s? I hope Mara gets some special treats for her big day!

    • REPLY
      Sara says

      They definitely will be able to tell the difference. Guille makes loud trumpets, too. We can’t wait to find out what all of their noises will be.

  14. REPLY
    Jacquelinr Leighton says

    Happy birthday Mara

  15. REPLY
    JamesMichael says

    Happy 2nd ReBirthday, Miss Mara. Lots Of love – and treats – on your Special Day.
    Have many great adventures as you continue to thrive & heal in your lovely, special home.

  16. REPLY
    Jillyp says

    Happy re-birthday beautiful Mara🧡🐘 what an amazing birthday pressie, two new friends Pocha & Guillermina 🎊

  17. REPLY
    Janine Proctor says

    Happy birthday beautiful girl. I love seeing their personalities and she is a big beautiful character❤️❤️❤️💋💋💋🐘🐘

  18. REPLY
    John says

    Poor Mara, has to share her re-birthday with the arrival of P & G. They have gotten all the glory lately. We won’t forget you Mara!

    • REPLY
      Sara says

      We could never forget Mara. She has our love and attention every day.

  19. REPLY
    Carey says

    A very happy day to Mara, how far she has come

  20. REPLY
    Patricia says

    Happy Belated Re-birthday to you, Mara my darling! 🍉🍎🍑 We are thrilled by new arrivals, but we never forget the angel trailblazers. I love you madly, Mara, and I wish and pray for your continued good health and joyful friendships at ESB! 😘😘😘

  21. REPLY
    Sunny says

    You did something beautiful for Mara and for the world ☺ I am thankful for that 😊

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