Maia and Guille Explore Yard 5

Once we decided to open up the male Asian habitat for Lady, it made sense to allow the other girls to have access to Yard 5, which they rarely get the opportunity to explore. Maia is among the most familiar elephants of this area – with the exception of Lady and Rana (who is a close second) – having spent lots of time there with Guida, so she had the greatest initial interest in crossing into the space to graze. Mara, Bambi, and Rana seemed happy to stay in Yard 4, but Guillermina appeared intrigued by potentially having a new space to wander.

After their arrival, Pocha and Guille both went into Yard 5 on a couple of occasions, but Pocha wasn’t always fully relaxed there and tended to return to Yard 4. Certainly Yard 5 has more topographical changes – with slopes and valleys – that elephants like Pocha and Guille, who were new to a natural environment, weren’t necessarily interested in right away. Now, Guille has become a gregarious explorer and decided to spend the afternoon with Maia, taking advantage of a new space. She seemed very content visiting the small pond there, relatively unconcerned about the newness of it all. She took in the area with calmness and was generally at ease.

Around dinner, Guille met up with the Powerpuff Girls, but crossed back over to stay with Maia after eating. She’s been getting her steps in, taking in the expanse of both yards all in one day. We’ve kept the gate between the two yards open so that all of the girls can continue to wander if they want to, but at the moment Maia and Guillermina are the only two elephants that seem interested. Guille in particular appears to appreciate the new open space and the chance to mingle as she chooses.

Photo of Guille

Comments(13)

Carey says
February 23, 2023 at 3:09 pm
What a cracking photo of Guille, it seems to sum up this young loveable rascal beautifully. And her eyes so excited! Very interesting to hear that both Maia and Guille like the sense of adventure offered by access to yard 5. Guille sounds as if she’s walking miles like a wild elephant would, wonderful how the GSE sanctuary can offer that. Enjoyed this post thank you!
Benita Auge says
February 23, 2023 at 3:23 pm
Will you please tell me what causes the elephants to have such raggedy looking ears?
- REPLY
  Sara says
  February 23, 2023 at 3:44 pm
  Not all elephants do. For instance, Mara has fairly smooth ears. It can happen for many reasons: genetics, they can be torn by natural elements like tree limbs, or it can occur if they’ve been harshly treated and handled by their ears in the past.
Melinda says
February 23, 2023 at 3:37 pm
I just love learning about the girls exploring and enjoying every second of paradise!
Julie says
February 23, 2023 at 4:30 pm
What a cute and happy looking Guille! I’m happy Yard 5 brings out positive feelings for her. I guess it could bring back memories of Mama Pocha.
- REPLY
  Sara says
  February 23, 2023 at 4:33 pm
  It’s always possible. But perhaps some of those are good memories!
Silvana Soranna says
February 23, 2023 at 6:44 pm
quedé enamorada de ésta imagen de Guille. Qué bueno es que socialice, que recorra y viva la vida de santuario y todo lo que ahí tiene a disposición. Creo que Maia también continúa evolucionando su personalidad y manifestándose. Hermoso. Gracias SEB
Tammy says
February 23, 2023 at 7:12 pm
Such happy 🐘 they all just look so content so peaceful and we can’t overlook those adorable fuzzy lil heads which I find so so cute. We thank you so much for sharing these pictures with us!
Bonnie says
February 23, 2023 at 9:15 pm
Guille boy she’s just smiling like crazy she’s so cute and that smile she’s showing how happy she is I think is that possible Sara
Terry says
February 23, 2023 at 10:14 pm
Such a fuzz bug Guille is!!!
Patricia says
February 24, 2023 at 8:39 am
I’ve always been crazy about Guille, from the first time I saw her picture. How I wish every captive elephant could have this life! 💞💞💞
John says
February 26, 2023 at 7:39 am
I’ve always been curious if it is a bit of a “dance” to keep Lady separate, as is her choice, from the others. Or does Lady naturally keep her distance from them?
Sheila says
March 5, 2023 at 3:44 pm
oh this young Kady Guille is a funny gal. She’s getting cuter all the time as she gets healthier. I have a hunch. She’s going to be the ENTERTAINER very soon. I’m very happy Guille is spending time with Maia. 2 FUZZY🐘🐘 HEADS R GOOD ❤️ ❤️

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