Recent rain showers have elicited some delightful natural elephant behaviors from Donna. She enthusiastically dug two holes in the soft, rain-soaked ground, liberally covering herself in mud — an activity she's been frequently observed doing since her arrival. Additionally, Donna has been expanding her grazing territory into her new habitat, even taking the time to sample fallen needles from native pine saplings.
Donna's dietary preferences have become apparent as well. Staff has taken note that she appears to favor coconut water, juicy oranges, crisp cucumbers, succulent watermelons, and sweet bananas. She has also been seen carrying bamboo around on her back! Before Donna's care team from Oakland bid farewell, they thoughtfully brought some of California's native treats, such as palm leaves and artichokes, which were shared with her new herd mates Flora, Tange, and Sukari.
As Donna continues to settle into both the herd and her habitat, there was another positive development as she was observed drinking from the fresh waterers strategically placed throughout the habitat. Despite having natural water sources and staff offering hydrating drinks from the hose, Donna's ability to find supplemental water on her own was a reassuring sign of her growing comfort within her new surroundings.