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Maia’s Elephant Baby Steps

Maia continues to move even closer to Bambi, Mara, and Rana as the days go by. Over the past couple of months we have seen a general trend of Maia becoming more curious and gaining confidence around the others. 

During a recent trip to put out some after-dinner snacks in the habitat, we saw Bambi, Mara, and Rana grazing as a group, as they often do, and Maia gently walking toward them. The three were very relaxed, so Maia perhaps felt comfortable inching near to watch them. The treats we’d put out may have been a bit of an incentive for Maia to stay in the vicinity, but even without that, she has continued to move closer and closer to the other three. 

Rana and Bambi were at ease with Maia’s presence, but Mara eventually took her hay and walked with it into the bushes. The other two eventually followed Mara into the bushes, with Maia not too far away. Even though each of these moments with Maia and the three might seem small on their own, when put together, they represent a significant amount of bravery and acceptance for all involved.

Photo (L to R): Maia, Mara, Rana, and Bambi

Comments(11)

  1. REPLY
    Melinda Barnett says
    November 3, 2021 at 2:18 pm

    I am always so heartbroken to know how horrific human abuse has damaged these wonderful beings. The fact that an elderly elephant has to “learn” how to trust her own kind is sickening. BUT, I am so happy she has that opportunity with GSE.

    • REPLY
      Sara says
      November 3, 2021 at 2:20 pm

      It’s difficult to think about, but we are encouraged to see how far she’s come.

  2. REPLY
    Katie Howard says
    November 3, 2021 at 2:37 pm

    Wonderful development n stunning photo. Love to all!
    ❤️🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘❤️

  3. REPLY
    Melinda Barnett says
    November 3, 2021 at 3:04 pm

    I agree, and am so grateful that your sanctuary exists. We can’t change the past, but we have a chance to heal its wounds. God bless you.

  4. REPLY
    Tammy says
    November 3, 2021 at 3:16 pm

    Maia is always growing and changing in positive ways I sure hope her past traumas will eventually fade enough so it doesnt get in the way of her finding true peace, happiness and belonging that she definitely deserves that they all do they’ve been through so much for far too long they couldnt be in a more perfect place than ESB thank you everyone!

  5. REPLY
    Julie says
    November 3, 2021 at 3:30 pm

    Four elephants in a picture with Maia included, beautiful! Thank you!

  6. REPLY
    Beji says
    November 3, 2021 at 5:36 pm

    Makes my heart happy!

  7. REPLY
    Susan says
    November 3, 2021 at 7:01 pm

    Love hearing about these awesome baby steps. Maia and LadyBug are growing all the time and learning valuable lessons as the herd develops. It is so exciting and beautiful to watch and observe this group of lovely, wonderful ladies, as they continue to grow. Thank you for sharing these insights with us! ❤️🐘❤️

  8. REPLY
    John says
    November 4, 2021 at 8:00 am

    As time goes on and I learn more about elephants, I become more fascinated.

  9. REPLY
    Rachel says
    November 4, 2021 at 4:53 pm

    A lovely, encouraging picture of the four. I’m hopeful. 💕

  10. REPLY
    Vicki Jones says
    June 1, 2022 at 5:47 pm

    It’s so lovely & heartwarming to see the increase & trust in all the girls – thank you for each & every update♥️🐘💖🐘

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