CNN - Elephant packs her trunk and moves on

Elephant packs her trunk and moves on

April 27, 1996
Web posted at: 5:30 p.m. EDT

ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) -- Once upon a time, there was an elephant named Barbara who lived at the circus.

One day Barbara left the circus to become a mother, but when she could not have a little elephant, she became depressed and lonely. She refused to eat and lost too much weight.

So she traveled to Tennessee to a new home where she found a new friend. Soon she was eating like ... well, an elephant and exploring her new home.

Barbara is the second elephant to take up residence at a 112-acre sanctuary in Tennessee for elephants cast off by zoos and circuses. The haven was founded by Carol Buckley and Scott Blais.

After the 700-mile journey from Tampa to Tennessee in her custom-made trailer, Barbara, a 26-year-old Asian elephant, was at first cautious about her new surroundings.

But despite her weight problem, Barbara has a lot going for her, says Buckley. "From what I hear, she's never shown any signs of aggression, gets along with everybody," says Buckley. "She's a happy animal, and I think when you look at her, she's got bright eyes, she looks content. She's not high-strung."

Shortly after arriving, Barbara's winning personality paid off. She quickly made friends with Tarra, the first elephant to arrive at the sanctuary.

Tarra, also a female Asian elephant, hadn't seen another of her species in two years. Upon meeting, the two animals approached and greeted each other by calling out loudly. They became friends, sharing food and caressing one another with their trunks. (884K QuickTime movie)

The next day Tarra showed Barbara the sanctuary, which has hills, pasture, ponds and a stream. Their home is a vast open space, probably similar to what their ancestors once enjoyed.

"It's not going to be identical to their natural herd environment, but we're trying our best," said Blais.

There's no thought of destroyed lives this fine spring day. Tarra finally has a friend; Barbara has freedom, hope, companionship; and both have the prospect of other unwanted elephants joining them in the years ahead.

Related site:

Center for Elephant Conservation

Feedback

Send us your comments.
Selected responses are posted daily.

Elephant packs her trunk and moves on

Related site:

Feedback

| CONTENTS | SEARCH | CNN HOME PAGE | MAIN ENVIRONMENT PAGE |