Seneca Park Zoo in New York is contributing to an “elephant blood bank” to help find a cure for Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV), a naturally occurring virus in elephants that can cause hemorrhagic disease. The zoo collects plasma from its elephants, which is used for research or to treat the virus in other elephants. Although no known cure exists, donated plasma can help further understand the virus and improve treatment. The zoo’s Lilac recently became a first-time plasma donor.
African Elephant Lilac Turns 45 – Happy Birthday!
Lilac, a beautiful African elephant residing at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya, marks her 45th birthday today. This magnificent creature has become an icon of the conservation movement, promoting the preservation of elephants and their habitats. Her life story is a testament to resilience’s power and conservation efforts’ importance.
A Troubled History
A life full of abuse and exploitation was what Lilac had experienced- beginning in the 1970s after being born in Tanzania. In this life, she had no choice but to perform in circuses repeatedly and shows throughout the country. She became part of this world due to poverty-stricken conditions that led her into the entertainment industry as a calf, which then sold Lilac for money purposes. An opportunity for a second chance came along during the early ’90s when David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – a leading organization fighting towards safeguarding African wildlife- rescued her from captivity and brought her into their Nairobi orphanage where rehabilitation and care were given before she was moved onto Tsavo National Park; a natural environment where now residing is comfortable enough with other elephants, free from abusive practices dictated by humans.
Lilac’s Legacy
Today Lilac serves as a beacon of hope for the conservation community. Her story inspires people around the world to take action to protect elephants and their habitats from illegal poaching, habitat loss, and climate change.
Lilac has faced many challenges as one of the oldest elephants in captivity. She has survived poacher encounters, witnessed the destruction of her habitats, and lost many of her peers. Despite these setbacks, she remains strong and determined, a symbol of the resilience and strength of these magnificent creatures.
A Message of Hope
Lilac’s birthday celebration symbolizes the vital work being done to protect African elephants like her. She serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world and nature’s incredible beauty and power. Let us celebrate Lilac’s life today and continue working towards a world where elephants and wildlife can thrive for generations.
