Two Years for Tarra

At nearly 50 years old, Tarra stands as a beacon of hope for captive-held elephants. When she was taken from her mother and biological family from the wild at only a few months old, she undoubtedly experienced a firestorm of debilitating emotions, including overwhelming loneliness, confusion, fear, and anger. But coming from a line of resilient and highly evolved sentient beings, Tarra overcame every obstacle she faced, finding a way to fill the void that being held captive by humans creates. She not only survived, but she also thrived under loving care to become the wise teacher she is today. 

Two years ago, after a decade of separation, Tarra was returned to Carol. The moment she stepped out of her transport trailer into the refuge and heard Carol’s voice, her eyes lit up, her defenses melted away, and she began her endless chatter that has not ceased since her arrival. That moment was so important because no one knew if the degree of trauma and loss she suffered during the past ten years had changed her. During the separation, Tarra had become aggressive and was put on drugs for years. But Tarra was home now, back with Carol, and memories of the past seemed to simply melt away.

Tarra and Carol reunited

Within minutes, Tarra met Bo, immediately striking up a friendship. And when Mundi arrived last May, introductions were like an instant replay, with Mundi and Tarra showing affection for each other as if they’d known each other for years. Their joy at being together is palpable. 

Bo and Tarra became fast friends

Tarra has spent the past two years savoring her autonomy, the freedom to roam the refuge day and night, experiencing mild weather suitable for her species, not locked inside a barn. She has traversed the entire 850 acres, identifying favorite sleeping spots, discovering ideal grazing locations, always exploring, and sharing her adventures with Bo and Mundi.

We can never know for certain how elephants will relate. Tarra had never experienced this depth of elephant connectedness before. So, witnessing how at ease she is with both Bo and Mundi is heartwarming. Tarra has found her elephant family.

Tarra and Mundi were at ease immediately

Hiking miles each and every day, Tarra remains fit and engaged. The habitat provides natural enrichment that stimulates her mind and body. She spends time with Bo and Mundi, sharing trunk rubs and, when Bo allows, some of his hay. She and Mundi graze side-by-side. Like a little sister wanting to imitate her big sister, Mundi looks to Tarra for guidance and to Bo for the brother to tag along with on adventures. Tarra’s relationships with Bo, Mundi, Samie, Mala, and her caregivers fill her need for family—her family, her way. 

Watching Tarra’s zest for life, seeing how she has blossomed since her arrival, and hearing her cheerful vocalizations when family is near, are proof enough that Tarra feels like she is home. 

EleUpdate: Rehabilitation through Autonomy, Freedom, and Family

Bo and Mundi snacking on tree branches

As we transition into autumn, the trees display beautiful fall colors, the temperatures once again revert to a comfortable level, and the elephants display changes of their own.

With pastures entering their dormant stage, the elephants switch to browsing as their main mode of food collection. Being constant eaters, they search out, select, and collect live growing vegetation for nearly 20 hours of each day; this seasonal change helps elephants fulfill their dietary need for mineral rich roughage. We observe that their ability to change with the seasons adds a layer of enrichment to their lives.

This time of year, while grasses remain slow growing or dormant, we supplement with timothy hay. We do not overfeed with hay because we aim to support the elephants’ natural drive to forage. This way, they continue to utilize the habitat, remaining engaged and active while receiving supplements that guarantee a healthy diet.

Tarra and Mundi grazing together

As the days and nights cool to a comfortable level, the elephants are found in areas of the habitat they don’t frequent during the heat of the summer. Much of their time is spent in the forests collecting branches, vines, and woody plants. It is also when we see all three together for longer periods of time. During the overnight hours, they can be found foraging and sleeping together.

Some avid Mundi lovers have asked, “How will she adapt to the cold weather?” Mundi was born in Africa, with a climate similar to ours in southernmost Georgia. Her response to the cooling temperatures has been positive, not surprising since her species evolved in similar weather. Her use of the barn this time of year is limited to a short nap with Bo in the early morning hours. The remainder of her time is spent exploring the habitat, although never far from Bo and Tarra.

Mundi continues to demonstrate a strong desire to be in the presence of Bo and Tarra. In the past month, we have observed her wandering off to her preferred foraging locations while keeping the other elephants in sight. When she does lose sight of them, she telescopes her trunk high in the air, scenting their location. Upon her return, it is like a reunion, with ears flapping, animated body language, and gentle touches. It is rewarding to see how much all three have grown with each other.

Tarra and Bo engaging in play

Tarra and Bo have been seen engaging in playful interactions, face-to-face. This way of playing requires a deep trust in each other. Tarra initiates the play and Bo is happy to oblige. He is always careful not to get pushy, knowing if he does Tarra will become uncomfortable and walk away. Their soft physical interplay is a joy to observe and builds on our understanding of this species when held in captivity.

Each elephant is a complete individual. As we watch Bo, Tarra, and Mundi interact with each other, it seems obvious they consider one another’s comfort zone and needs. In this way they nurture their relationships, which continue to develop in the most positive way.

Mundi, Bo, and Tarra are one “big” healthy family.

Bo, Mundi and Tarra: a happy and healthy family

Smile, You’re On The EleCam!

Providing a great experience for you to non-intrusively watch Bo, Tarra, and Mundi living free in a natural habitat can only be done with continued support.

We need to add an additional camera that will overlook the large mud wallow (not yet seen on camera), the previously hidden pasture area, and the new waterer. The cost of a new camera is $2,500.  

Will you donate toward this essential tool so you and others can enjoy the trio’s togetherness, Tarra’s explorations, Bo’s favorite hang out spots, and Mundi’s mud baths?

The EleCam system gives our supporters a continuous window into the elephants’ world. Also, staff can view the elephants non-intrusively and locate them for supplemental feedings three times a day while getting a complete and accurate picture of how Tarra, Bo, and Mundi are using the habitat and relating to each other.

Observing what they are eating, where they are sleeping, when they drink, how much time they are spending together, and how their interpersonal relationships are progressing informs our approach to their care.

Any amount is appreciated and will assist us in purchasing the new camera for the Refuge so both supporters and staff can share this valuable resource.

Help Us Give Tarra her Best Life – Become a Sponsor

Here is your chance to honor Tarra for her ERNA anniversary! We know Tarra holds a special place in your heart. Her friendship with Mundi and Bo, which you are able to witness live on our EleCam, is especially endearing. Now, you can show your affection for this wonderful elephant by becoming her sponsor.

With a few simple clicks, you can choose an annual sponsorship of $75, or sponsor her every month of the year with a recurring donation of your choice (just click monthly and select the amount).

You'll receive a Tarra sponsorship certificate delivered via eco-friendly email. With your support, we can continue to give Tarra and her companions Bo and Mundi their best lives ever.

Tarra Commemorative T-Shirt

Celebrate Tarra’s second ERNA anniversary and step out in style in her commemorative T-shirt. Tarra displays her beautiful and curious personality as the focal point of this design created in her honor.

Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends

Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends

Our supporters and EleCam viewers are familiar with Tarra’s dog buddies Mala and Samie, but before them, she had another canine companion—Bella. Author/photographer and EAI CEO/founder Carol Buckley shares their incredible story in the book Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends.

At the relatively young age of twenty-one, Tarra retired from performing to become the founding resident of the first elephant sanctuary Carol built. When other elephants moved in and developed close friendships, only Tarra failed to find a special friend — until the day she met a stray mixed-breed dog named Bella. From then on, the two were inseparable.

Color photographs of Tarra and Bella deftly illustrate this inspiring story of inter-species companionship, showing us that to an elephant, species does not matter.

Celebrate Tarra’s second anniversary at Elephant Refuge North America by learning more about her deep love of dogs.

As an added bonus, the book includes a special “Dear Reader” letter with an update on Tarra’s amazing life at the Refuge with Bo, Mundi, Mala, and Samie.

A Year in the Life of Tarra - Nov 18, 2022 to Nov 18, 2023

Click the image above to watch!