A group of Asian elephants has found a spacious and serene new home in rural Florida, courtesy of the non-profit conservation organization White Oak.
The organization acquired a large piece of land and transformed it into a sanctuary, providing a haven for these majestic creatures.
These elephants are retired circus performers who were formerly part of the renowned Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus until the circus discontinued their act several years ago.
Now, in their well-deserved retirement, they have been granted a second chance at a fulfilling life.
Initially, the elephants were housed in an enclosure near Orlando, but the space proved inadequate for the 35-member herd, making it one of the largest Asian elephant herds worldwide.
Thankfully, White Oak stepped in and acquired a vast expanse of land, enabling the elephants to roam freely, socialize with their herd, and even enjoy cooling off in a large body of water during the sweltering summer months.
Currently, ten elephants have been released into their new expansive habitat, with more expected to join them soon.
Under the careful supervision of animal specialists, the elephants have already established a hierarchical structure within their herd, and their well-being is monitored daily.
Given their lifelong training as performers, these elephants can never be reintroduced into the wild. Nevertheless, the team at White Oak has created the next best thing by providing this sanctuary.
It is the perfect environment for these beautiful, friendly, and extraordinary beings to traverse the land and relish in the peace and freedom they richly deserve after enduring a life of compelled servitude in the circus.
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