WEST Midlands Safari Park has welcomed two new African elephants into its herd, named Suzy and Gitana.
The two females, aged 40 and 44, arrived last week and had travelled from Pairi Daiza Zoo, in Belgium.
They have made the move to be companions for the two elephants that already reside at the Park, 32-year-old female, Five and bull elephant, 23-year-old Coco.
Head Keeper of Elephants at the safari park, Andy Plumb, said: “After nearly a year in planning, all of the elephant keeping team are delighted with the safe arrival of Suzy and Gitana, which has doubled our herd numbers overnight.
"The reaction of Coco and Five has been a joy to see, as forming friendships with other individuals is a very important part of their social life. We are very excited to see how the new herd develops.”
Since their arrival, Suzy and Gitana have had time to settle into their new home, consisting of outdoor pools, mud wallows, dust baths, indoor sand beds and enriching feeding areas.
As soon as they entered their new outdoor habitat on Friday, they could be seen exploring the area, throwing dust over themselves and enjoying the enriching smells and textures of the planting.
Veterinarian at Pairi Daiza, Alicia Quiévy, said, “We are saddened to say goodbye to our magnificent elephants, whom we have cherished for so many years and with whom we have shared so much love. We are confident that West Midlands Safari Park will take excellent care of them, with the development of their new facility being more suitable for these older females”.
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