One Lucky Elephant Star's Arrival at Sanctuary

Visit our website to read about Flora's journey and her new life in Sanctuary! http://bit.ly/Flora_Finds_Sanctuary

After many years as the prima donna of Circus Flora, starring roles in Hollywood and a period of time on exhibit at the Miami Metrozoo, Flora became the youngest African elephant to be retired to The Elephant Sanctuary at the age of 22. She joined her new sisters Tange and Zula, who had arrived a few months earlier.

In this preview for her Sanctuary DVD, we celebrate some of Flora's greatest moments in her first years at the Sanctuary. To order the 10-minute DVD, follow this gift shop link and select Videos from the menu: http://www.elephants.com/estore

Flora's journey to Sanctuary is featured in the film, "One Lucky Elephant."

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• Flora Elephant Sanctuary
• one lucky elephant
• African elephants
• elephants
• tn
• elephant welfare
• refuge
• circus
• elephant sanctuary
• Circus Flora
• Tange
• Zula

[veggiewarriors]

Has Flora's former owner visited her ever since she was retired to the Sanctuary?

[elephantsanctuarytn]

@veggiewarriors David Balding visited Flora early on, but due to concerns about the behavioral effects his visits were having on Flora emotionally, it was decided a permanent separation was best for Flora. The new documentary "One Lucky Elephant" addresses this difficult decision about wanting to see Flora, but also wanting to make sure Flora does not suffer any devastating setbacks. The Sanctuary believes a visit from David carries too much risk, even if made with the best of intentions.

[veggiewarriors]

@elephantsanctuarytn

That's really interesting. I haven't watched "One Lucky Elephant" but I've always been fascinated by elephant psychology so I would appreciate it if you elaborate on these behavioral effects.

Does she get possessive and throw tantrums because she not want to let go of her previous owner during the reunion or is it the complete opposite...i.e. does she feel intimidated by his presence due to the memory of any unintended abuse inflicted on her during life in the circus?

[elephantsanctuarytn]

@veggiewarriors There are some details about this in our latest newsletter ( "Trunklines") which automatically mails to TES members, and will be posted on our website soon. Also suggest you google "One Lucky Elephant" for info on the film and to view the movie trailer. Flora exhibited anger and destructive behavior when David left.

[elephantsanctuarytn]

@veggiewarriors Please visit our website for a detailed message that further explains the situation and our decision: bit.ly/Best_For_Flora

[PegGrowsRoses]

Her freedom is beautiful. :)

[onekinkstar]

Sweet Joy.  ((♥))

[waterbird91]

Elephants should not be ''used'' in circus for entertainment purposes. They should be able to run and play freely. They should be ''cared'' for. ABOVE ALL< THEY SHOULD BE LOVED AND RESPECTED......

[lucycatism]

@elephantsanctuarytn After watching One Lucky Elephant on OWN, this morning, I wholeheartedly agree with your decision. This is about Flora and not about David Balding. All he has to do is watch Flora's transition on youtube. He should be happy that Flora is being cared for and having a wonderful time. Her life under his care wasn't that great.

[Germania72]

It's really relaxing to see these videos. In my country Chile we have an Asian elephant called Ramba that was "retired" from the circus activity last year (2010). Despite she was bought ilegally by the circus, she's still is in the hands of the offenders. The authority found that it was better to keep her with them. Can you believe such a stupid idea?...A group of people have been fighting for her freedom because, in the end, we want her to live in your sanctuary after her recovery.

[spiderdude56]

@elephantsanctuarytn your welcome:)

[elephantsanctuarytn]

@spiderdude56  Not a bother--we loved hearing from you! Thanks so much for your support.