Nurses given uplifting update following heartfelt goodbyes: "Redemption arrived"
Rani, a 15-year-old elephant matriarch, and her nearly two-year-old daughter Savani, have recently joined the herd at Munich's Tierpark Hellabrunn, following a recommendation from the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP). Their arrival has been significant, as the zoo is currently navigating a difficult period marked by the unfortunate death of a young bull elephant, Otto, due to a severe herpes virus infection (EEHV 1).
The integration of Rani and Savani into the herd is being carefully managed, with thorough health examinations carried out on all elephants to monitor for herpes virus exposure. This proactive approach underscores the zoo's commitment to ensuring the health and safety of the entire elephant group, including the new arrivals.
The emotional impact of Otto's death on the herd is undeniable, and it may influence the dynamics and adjustment period for newcomers such as Rani and Savani. However, it's worth noting that in an elephant herd, all the cows, more or less, care for the young.
Rani's life's work, according to the Munich keepers, is to have calves. Her arrival in Munich was not her final destination, as the keepers have big plans for her return to the Leipzig Zoo, where she could potentially become a grandmother. Savani, meanwhile, has gained new step-siblings in the Munich herd.
The Munich keepers are hopeful that if Savani is ready, the herd could grow further with more elephants. The arrival of Rani and Savani has certainly added a new dimension to the herd, and the keepers are vigilant in their efforts to ensure a smooth transition for all involved.
In other news, fans of "Elephant, Tiger & Co" can tune in every Friday at 7:50 PM on MDR, with new episodes available in the ARD-Mediathek*. The show offers a fascinating insight into the lives of these magnificent creatures. Here's to hoping that Rani, Savani, and the rest of the herd at Tierpark Hellabrunn continue to thrive and grow.
*ARD-Mediathek is an online media library of the ARD German public broadcasters.
The Munich keepers are actively seeking to maintain a sustainable lifestyle for their elephant herd, with plans for Rani to potentially return to the Leipzig Zoo and potentially become a grandmother, while focusing on the health and well-being of all members. In alignment with this, the keepers are working diligently to integrate Rani and Savani into the herd, ensuring a smooth transition and fostering a home-and-garden environment that is conducive to their well-being.
