Osh, who joined us from Oakland Zoo earlier this fall, has been getting to know Artie, with whom he shares the Bull Barn and Habitat. He has been spending much of his time exploring his new home, knocking down trees and wallowing in the mud. Recently, Osh had the opportunity to meet the female residents of Asia Habitat, Nosey, Edie, and Sissy, at a shared barrier for the first time.
Sissy, true to form, maintained her independent nature and chose not to approach Osh. While she kept her distance, Care Staff were glad to see that she is now aware of Osh's presence. Edie, on the other hand, initially seemed uninterested in Osh, giving only a couple of quick periscope-like sniffs with her trunk before stepping away. Meanwhile, Osh was determined to make a connection — he leaned over the fence, stretching his trunk in Edie’s direction, as if politely waiting for her attention.
The highlight for Staff came when Nosey decided to approach. She and Osh immediately engaged in an interaction. They sparred, a behavior often seen in social bonding among African elephants. The pair displayed affiliative and playful behaviors, including “bowing” to each other, lying sternally — resting on their chest and abdomen — and bending onto their carpi, indicating a relaxed, playful state. Care Staff were thrilled to see how Nosey matched Osh’s energy, showcasing a positive and dynamic connection.
A few days later, Edie decided it was time for a proper introduction. She approached Osh at the barrier, and the two elephants began investigating each other. They took turns touching trunk to mouth, a notable sign of curiosity. Afterward, they moved into sparring, their playful energy keeping Care Staff captivated. The interaction lasted about 45 minutes, with Osh getting particularly animated — smushing his head over the fence and bending onto his carpi repeatedly.
These interactions mark an important step in Osh’s acclimation to his new home at The Sanctuary. Care Staff are eager to see how his relationships develop as he continues settling into his environment.