As part of their end-of-life care plan, a senior elephant named Jana from Zoo Knoxville in Tennessee will retire to The Elephant Sanctuary on April 16, also Save the Elephants Day. Jana is 42 years old and will be the first of three senior elephants to relocate as part of the plan to better cater to their individual needs. They will join a larger herd at the sanctuary and receive companionship for the rest of their lives. Zoo Knoxville is hosting a public farewell weekend for Jana, and the cover and the zoo will give updates on her relocation. Save the Elephant Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness for elephant conservation efforts worldwide.
Introduction
Elephants are one of the most incredible creatures on this planet. Known for their intelligence, compassion, and social nature, elephants have become one of the most beloved animals among wildlife enthusiasts. However, the illegal ivory trade has threatened the survival of these majestic animals, causing a decline in their population. Save The Elephants Day was created in 2011 to raise awareness about elephant conservation. The day is celebrated every year on April 16, reminding the world about the importance of conserving these fantastic animals. In honor of this day, Zoo Knoxville has announced that one of its senior elephants, Edie, will be retiring and moving to the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee to receive end-of-life care.
About Edie and her career at Zoo Knoxville
Edie is a 34-year-old African elephant who has spent the last 23 years at Zoo Knoxville. She came to the zoo in 1998 from the African Lion Safari in Florida and has since become one of the most beloved animals. Edie has delighted visitors throughout her career with her playful personality and intelligence. She has even starred in several documentaries, including an Animal Planet special, where she was showcased as part of a series about animal welfare practices in zoos.
Edie’s move to the Elephant Sanctuary
A press release by Zoo Knoxville announced that Edie would be moving to the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. The sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee, provides a natural habitat for elephants to roam, socialize, and live out their lives in a peaceful environment. The refuge is a retirement facility for elephants, and its mission is to help provide end-of-life care for these fantastic creatures.
The decision to move Edie to the Elephant Sanctuary was made in consultation with the zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams. According to Lisa New, the Vice President of Animal Care at Zoo Knoxville, the decision was based on Edie’s age and health. As elephants age, they become more susceptible to ailments and require specialized care. The Elephant Sanctuary is equipped to provide this type of care, making it the ideal place for Edie to spend her remaining years.
End-of-life care at the Elephant Sanctuary
At the Elephant Sanctuary, Edie will have access to a wide range of amenities to ensure her well-being. The sanctuary has specialized veterinary care, daily check-ups, and an onsite clinic. Edie will also have access to various natural habitats, including grasslands and forests. She will be free to roam and socialize with other elephants, essential for her emotional health. The sanctuary staff will also provide Edie personalized care, including a customized diet and exercise plan to help maintain her health.
Edie’s move to the Elephant Sanctuary is a testament to the zoo’s and its staff’s commitment to the care and well-being of their animals. As Edie moves into her senior years, the sanctuary provides a safe and peaceful environment for her to live out the remainder of her life. As we celebrate Save The Elephants Day, Edie’s retirement reminds us of the importance of elephant conservation and the need to protect these amazing animals.
