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Two Elephants Freed From Concrete Pit After 20 Years

elephants freed from concrete pit
Image by elefantesbrasil

In a world that often seems fraught with grim news, there are moments of hope and resilience that shine like beacons. One such remarkable story unfolded recently when two elephants, mother and daughter, were finally freed from a concrete pit that had confined them for two decades.

Looking Further

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

This liberating event marked a new beginning for these majestic creatures. Thus it offered the elephants a glimpse of a life they had never known.

The Captive Life

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

The story of these elephants is a poignant one. It illustrates the devastating impact of poaching on wildlife. The elder elephant was stolen from the wild and imported into a zoo that lacked the capacity and space to provide a suitable environment. For 20 years, she lived in one of the most confined spaces imaginable, devoid of any semblance of the natural world.

Deprived Freedom

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

The older elephant and her young were kept captive in this concrete pit. They were unable to move around freely, explore the untamed flora, graze on verdant grass, or feel the ground beneath their feet. 

Raising Voices

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

People in Argentine cities rallied together, voicing their discontent. They also  demanded better treatment for these captive elephants. Evidently they recognized that it was time to make a profound change, providing these magnificent animals with a chance to experience a new life.

Mendoza Zoo’s Transformation

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

The transformation began at the Mendoza Zoo, with a commitment to sending as many animals as possible to sanctuaries around the world. The first step was to liberate the elephants from their concrete prison and give them a chance to live in a space that would nurture their growth and well-being.

Liberation!

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

These elephants were carefully freed, with special attention paid to their comfort and preparedness for life after captivity. To make sure they felt safe at every turn, it was imperative to give them the freedom to choose the speed at which they were released.

Slow And Steady

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

There were pauses and anxious moments during the first slow release. The elephants moved a few paces forward and occasionally backward as they took their time getting a feel for their new environment. It was an instinct-driven dance, a dance of advance and retreat.

The Barn

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

The barn served as their first home on the road to freedom. Moreover it offered a secure haven where they could adjust to their new circumstances. 

Discovering Freedom

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

They were allowed to explore the first yard once they settled in. The great outdoors were full of adventure! Unfortunately there was also a certain level of fear associated with it.

Growth

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

Evidently every passing day, they gained comfort and self-assurance, and they were able to enjoy being elephants. Their joy came from simple things like playing in the water and rolling in the mud, which stood in stark contrast to the monotony of the concrete pit.

Transformation Journey

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

The lively expressions on their faces and the brightness of their eyes clearly showed the transformation. Moreover these elephants who were formerly confined, were now ecstatic about their newfound liberty. 

To watch the full video of the elephants.

YouTube video

Wrapping Up with the Two Elephants Freed From Concrete Pit After 20 Years

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

At their sanctuary, these two elephants found themselves in the company of five other elephants. Thus forming a new elephant family quite easily. The healing had begun as they discovered the simple pleasures that had been denied to them for so long. Their lives had taken a new trajectory.

The End

elephant
Image by elefantesbrasil

Lastly, the story of these two elephants underscores the importance of collective action. Moreover in our efforts to right past wrongs, we can indeed create a brighter future for all living beings. 

Thank you for following along with this article – 

Next up in the animal kingdom:

Latest posts by Jen Fitschen, BSc Computer Science and Oceanography (see all)

Jack

Sunday 5th of November 2023

Aaah 20 Years.😔