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As part of our new caregiver training program, we’ve been advancing some of our staff to the next level of elephant care. Part of that means having them watch as more experienced caregivers work with the elephants in order to learn what that particular elephant’s ‘normal’ looks like. Sometimes, one might think that an elephant could be behaving in a certain way because of the specific person working with them, whether that person is new or more familiar to the elephant. But there are times when there’s a momentary lack of cooperation that occurs because of how the elephant is feeling. Do they need a minute to pause, or to scratch, or to listen to something they hear? Any number of things could be going on, and it’s imperative that we try to understand the whys of what is happening. 

Rana has been an excellent teacher throughout this process. She seems to want everyone to know that her ‘normal’ status is perfect. She’s been excellent with everyone who has been working with her. There have been lots of squeaks and rumbles and happy, flapping ears. She’s absolutely turning on the charm, wanting to show everyone how exceptional she truly is. Anyone watching would think that there’s never a time when Rana isn’t cooperative. Of course, she’s not always the perfect princess, but she definitely wanted to show her best side to anyone and everyone who was working with her this week.

Photo of a very smiley Rana