Let’s Celebrate Bo’s Second Year of Retirement

This past year has presented all of us with an incredible opportunity to learn more about elephant psyche and culture, which has directly benefited our ability to ensure each elephant’s wellbeing.

Prior to Mundi’s arrival in May, Bo and Tarra were thriving. Their relationship with staff was comfortable and cooperative, and they had become close friends. They spent hours each day together, showering one another with physical affection in a completely trusting manner. This was especially exciting and noteworthy because Tarra had not developed this type of close and caring relationship with any elephant in her past. Dogs and people have always been where her comfort lies, but Bo, in his special way, broke through Tarra’s fear to form a loving, trusting bond.

Tarra and Bo bosom buddies

Any anticipated disruption caused by Mundi’s arrival simply did not happen. Those watching the EleCam experienced for themselves when Mundi first saw Bo beyond the fence and rushed to interact with him. Mundi, having only the experience of a young, orphaned elephant fighting to survive, acted quite pushy with Bo. But Bo responded with the skills he’d learned from the auntie elephants who raised him. He was there for Mundi, interacted with her over the fence, and showed her only acceptance and kindness.

Bo shows Mundi acceptance upon her arrival

Over the next few days, Bo demonstrated to Mundi that she did not need to fear him nor act aggressively towards him. The results were miraculous, reflected in Mundi’s profound change in behavior. Instead of rushing the fence to try and intimidate Bo, she’d rush the fence to play with him. Within another few days, Mundi was with Bo and Tarra in the larger habitat, sharing the same space, exchanging gentle touches, and resting in the same sleeping spots. Their friendships were instantaneous and loving. Mundi’s transition into her new life at the Refuge was smooth, easy, and immediate. The ease by which Bo, Mundi, and Tarra became friends was astonishing.

Mundi, Bo, and Tarra became fast friends

Bo is the epitome of a gentle giant. He is thoughtful, kind, sociable, non-aggressive, and possesses a wicked sense of humor. He likes to engage his friends, including playing with Samie, the dog, and teasing Carol during his pain-free laser treatment. As the laser wand is moved around Bo’s leg, he ever so gently investigates Carol, softly touching her and responding without hesitation when asked to refrain from messing with the laser machine.

Bo and Samie engaged in a game of play

Bo has established endearing routines, including his midday naps on one of his favorite dirt piles or the embankment of the giant mud wallow. He has taken to Mundi’s use of mud, coating himself to prevent bug bites, and continues to be a valuable mentor to Mundi. The only time Mundi is not by Bo’s side is when he is fast asleep. At that time, Mundi joins Tarra in her favorite pastime, grazing!

Bo napping at one of his favorite spots

This past year has been powerfully rewarding. Being present to observe Bo continue to mentor Mundi, watching Tarra effortlessly accept another elephant into her life, and seeing Mundi thrive with abandon is more than any of us could have ever asked for.

Bo, Mundi, and Tarra are a very close family

Celebrate Bo—Spread the Love, Seed, and Hay

Join the celebration of Bo’s second year of retirement and help us supply his Refuge home with reseeded pastures, and the transport of a barn full of fiber-rich Timothy hay for winter.

To efficiently spread fresh seed on the pastures of the Refuge, we need a DR Receiver Spreader that will attach to our ATV and spread the seed evenly.

Donations of any amount will help us purchase:

• A seed spreader for pastures: $300.00
• Transport cost for semi-truckload of Timothy hay: $1,800

Every dollar counts and will help us give the best care to our elephant residents. Thank you for your support of Bo and his companions!

Help Us Give Bo his Best Life – Become a Sponsor

We know Bo holds a special place in your heart, now is your chance to become his sponsor. You can choose an annual sponsorship of $75 or sponsor Bo every month of the year with a recurring donation of your choice. You’ll receive a sponsorship certificate that includes a photo of Bo and five fun facts about him delivered via eco-friendly e-mail.

By sponsoring Bo, you can help ensure we have everything we need to provide the highest level of care and give Bo his best life ever.

Thank you so much for your kind support!

Bo Commemorative T-shirt

Bo stands majestic and beautiful as the focal point of this design created in his honor. Step out in style and order yours today!

A Year in the Life of Bo - Sep 23, 2022 to Sep 23, 2023

Click the image above to watch!