Summary:
1. The Zoo’s Asian elephant family and their unique personalities.
2. The Zoo’s efforts in Asian elephant conservation.
3. Toss the Tusk event to combat elephant ivory demand.
4. Collaborations with organizations to raise awareness about wildlife trafficking.
5. Celebrating World Elephant Day with keeper chats and activities.
If you’ve ever had the chance to visit The Zoo, you’ve probably marveled at the majestic Asian elephants that call it home. These gentle giants are truly a sight to behold, and their presence adds a sense of wonder and awe to the zoo experience. Today, we’re going to explore the unique and fascinating aspects of The Zoo’s Asian elephant family and learn about the efforts being made to protect these incredible creatures from extinction.
The heart of The Zoo’s Asian elephant family lies in the nine elephants that reside here, which includes eight females and one male named Raja. These elephants have distinct personalities, quirks, and preferences, just like any human family. It’s truly remarkable how much diversity there is within this multi-generational family.
But beyond just being an awe-inspiring display of nature’s wonders, The Zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts for Asian elephants. One of their key initiatives is participation in the AZA Species Survival Plan for Asian elephants. This plan aims to conserve, manage, and enhance the population of Asian elephants in North American zoos while raising awareness about the threats they face in the wild.
One such threat is a deadly virus known as EEHV (Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus). This virus has claimed the lives of many Asian elephants, both in the wild and captivity. The Zoo is dedicated to treating and preventing EEHV in their elephants, using cutting-edge research and veterinary care to combat this devastating disease. By doing so, they contribute to the overall well-being and survival of the species.
Another major concern for Asian elephants is the demand for ivory, which seriously threatens their long-term survival. To address this issue, The Zoo organizes an event called Toss the Tusk. This event encourages people to surrender any unwanted elephant ivory, animal pelts, or other animal artifacts to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for safekeeping. By removing these items from the market, the Zoo helps ensure that they are not available illegally and thus reduces the demand for ivory.
But the conservation efforts don’t stop there. The Zoo works closely with organizations such as @moconservation, @zoos_aquariums Wildlife Trafficking Alliance, and the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute to raise awareness about wildlife trafficking. These collaborations aim to educate the public about the illegal trade of animal products, including ivory, and empower individuals to take action to protect endangered species like Asian elephants.
To culminate these efforts and celebrate the incredible Asian elephants, The Zoo hosts World Elephant Day events. These events allow guests to engage in keeper chats, participate in kid’s activities, and learn more about these magnificent creatures. It’s a day filled with joy, excitement, and education as visitors witness the beauty of elephants and understand the significance of conservation.
In conclusion, The Zoo’s Asian elephant family is a testament to the marvels of nature. Their unique personalities and bonds highlight the importance of protecting these incredible creatures for future generations. Through initiatives like the AZA Species Survival Plan, Toss the Tusk event, collaborations with organizations combatting wildlife trafficking, and the annual celebration of World Elephant Day, The Zoo continues its dedication to the conservation and preservation of Asian elephants. So, the next time you visit The Zoo, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and significance of these majestic giants and be inspired to join the cause to save them from extinction.
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Source Description
The Zoo is home to nine Asian elephants, including eight females and one male, Raja. Each of them has unique personalities that make this multi-generational family just that: family!
The Zoo works to keep our elephant family and all Asian elephants around the world safe from extinction by participating in the AZA Species Survival Plan for Asian elephants, treating sicknesses such as EEHV and supporting the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute Center for Asian Elephant Conservation.
We continue to protect and save Asian elephants by hosting Toss the Tusk, an elephant ivory surrendering event. Demand for ivory poses a serious threat to the long-term survival of elephants. Ivory products that are turned in will ensure they will not be available illegally on the market. Removing those products from the market can help keep Asian elephants like Raja alive for generations.
Toss the Tusk is happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, August 11. Any unwanted elephant ivory, animal pelts or other artifacts can be turned in to the @usfws for safekeeping.
Guests can learn from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, @moconservation, @zoos_aquariums Wildlife Trafficking Alliance and Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute about elephants, wildlife trafficking and how you help save the elephants! Stick around to help celebrate World Elephant Day with keeper chats, kid’s activities and more! Visit stlzoo.org/tossthetusk for more information.
