Recently, while Lady was grazing in Yard 2, Scott headed out on a 4wheeler to open a gate for her, giving her access to Yard 4 (where Rana & Mara were). Lady lazily headed in that direction.
It isn’t a gate that Lady usually uses, but once she realized Scott was opening it, she picked up speed. Once Scott saw she was immediately heading for Yard 4, he tried to lead her into some lovely shade trees since the sun was intense. Lady had other ideas and started walking down Middle Road instead. A little later, he checked on her again, and she was still on the move in Yard 4. When we saw her again, early in the afternoon, she had just gone swimming. Scott found her standing next to the pond, soaking wet, covered in dirt, and seeming light.
Shirlei went out to feed dinner, and Lady had returned to Yard 2. She looked super bright, but also a bit worn out. It’s no surprise Lady looked tired – it was a lot of walking in a short time for her! Walking dynamically over varied substrates is one of the best things for her feet and body. When she spends a day wandering like this, there are so many reasons we are excited. ❤️
While Lady seems very comfortable sharing space with Rana and Mara, we suspect that she comes back for a little alone time and an opportunity to recharge. We let it be her choice. If she is in a yard with others at the end of the day, they all get access to the same multiple yards overnight. If she is near the barn by herself, we will usually close up. That night, Lady spent the night by herself in Yards 1, 2, & 3.
Lady slept very well that night. In fact, the next day, Lady was the only elephant that appeared well-rested. She was the most active elephant that day, including spending lots of time playing in the mud wallow. Maia, Rana, and Mara all appeared to be super tired. Sleepy elephants in the morning are common this time of year. The sun is intense during the day, which means the elephants tend to be active at night when it is cooler. Then, they sleep in the mornings when it warm.
What is nice is that Lady is learning how to regulate herself. It’s incredible that, when she is fatigued from her adventures, she chooses to come back into yards she feels more comfortable to get a good night’s rest.
July 10, 2020
Comments(14) 
- PO Box 2426
- Brentwood, TN 37024
- (615) 435-9523
- Ways to Support
- GSE Merchandise
- Privacy Policy
Title USD
Barb says
July 10, 2020 at 4:11 pmI loved Lady’s adventure! And I do so enjoy seeing the habitat map! I can’t explain but seeing the map makes me feel closer to you all.
Susan says
July 10, 2020 at 4:23 pmOh, Sweet Lady!! I love that she comes to sleep nearer to the barn sometimes and gets a little added comfort and feels more safe. I continue to find inspiration in her taking the roads less traveled sometimes, even though it can’t be easy. I love her!! Thank you everyone! Love and hugs! ❤️?❤️?❤️
Jillyp says
July 10, 2020 at 5:13 pmWow! Doesn’t she look amazing, she’s gorgeous ❤️ A day out in a fave place, nice swim and home for a good night’s sleep. Perfect ??????
JoAnn Merriman Eaton says
July 10, 2020 at 5:50 pmLove this report on Lady Bug. So encouraging to watch her grow and become comfortable. Such an independent girl, and to know she is walking more to aid in the healing of her feet is wonderful. The diagram of the yards are so helpful to be able to relate to the girls travels.
carrie vornkahl says
July 10, 2020 at 9:39 pmIs the swimming hole in yard 4 the most desired one? I love that she gets to be a swimmer these days!
Kat Blais says
July 11, 2020 at 11:43 amIt seems to depend. It’s bigger than the other, but Maia really seemed to like the pond in 5 for several months, over the one in 4. Now it has reversed. When Lady is in 5, we haven’t seen her go in that pond, only play in the streams.
Sherry says
July 10, 2020 at 5:52 pmLady loves her adventures ???❤️ and I love hearing about them.
Julie says
July 10, 2020 at 7:37 pmI agree, Jillyp, sanctuary certainly agrees with miss Lady Bug. She is the picture of life and health!
Bertica Valdes Suarez says
July 10, 2020 at 8:03 pmReading this story makes me want concentrate on myself more. Very wise Lady. Thank youuu for bringing her close to me.
Rosie P says
July 11, 2020 at 2:09 amLady does seem settled and relaxed knowing she can do her own thing, what is best for her, in her time, her space. Lady can be Lady. Walking around the large areas has to help her feet and gain her a wonderful sleepy feel with quality snooze time at the end of her busy day.
Does Lady lie down to sleep? Do any of the other girls?
Kat Blais says
July 11, 2020 at 11:41 amYes, all of our girls lie down to sleep, although, during the day, most take standing naps.
Rosie P says
July 11, 2020 at 12:33 pmThank you, Kat. I can now imagine the girls at rest after a busy day! God bless!xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Paula says
July 11, 2020 at 9:31 amLady tiene un rostro dulce, sereno, angelical…? reflejo de lo feliz que es ella con su nueva vida! La libertad, la campañia, los espacios y cielos abiertos, la comida, el agua en cantidad, el amado barro y los cuidados amorosos ❤
Los agradecimientos nunca serán suficientes!???
Bernadette Andaloro says
July 11, 2020 at 10:10 amI’ve only recently discovered the Global Sanctuary and these daily reports on the elephants. I so look forward to receiving them every day. I hope to leave something to this wonderful place in my will in thanks for the daily happiness they give me.
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: Lady’s Adventures
Lady’s Adventures