In case you missed the recent exciting news, The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee is thrilled to announce the safe arrival of African male elephant Osh, age 30, on October 18!
Osh made the journey from Oakland, California, to Hohenwald, Tennessee, accompanied by dedicated zoo staff and veterinarian. His arrival went smoothly, and he quickly settled into his new barn, exploring his surroundings.
Care Staff have been getting to know Osh, including his preference for beet pulp, pineapple, and very large watermelons! He participates in his Protected Contact training and makes soft “bubble” noises when interacting with Caregivers. Osh has been spending his time traversing his diverse habitat day and night, pushing over small trees and munching on an abundance of browse. He is often covered in mud, finding mud wallows everywhere he explores. It's exciting to see him fully participate in these natural behaviors so quickly after his arrival, signs of acclimating well.
Artie and Osh had the opportunity to meet across fence lines. Both elephants chose to remain at a distance, and they exhibited interest and curiosity from afar as they explored each other’s scents with their trunks. Staff report that their initial greetings have been positive, indicating a promising start for future interactions. Care Staff want to ensure the two elephants have the space and time needed to feel comfortable with one another.
As Donna's current habitat is not connected directly to the new Bull Barn habitat where Osh resides, plans are being developed for the two former Oakland Zoo residents to be reintroduced. Caregivers plan to exchange their dung, allowing both elephants to use their sense of smell to recognize each other’s presence. Staff are aware that elephants have a highly developed sense of smell, and scent plays a crucial role in their social interactions. They are hopeful this will serve as a connection until they can be reintroduced.