Today is National Elephant Appreciation Day, and we’re honoring African elephant Lulu, who at 54 years old is the oldest African elephant in North America.
She may be the smallest of the African elephants at PAWS, but Lulu’s transformation is one of our biggest success stories and a testament to the transformative powers of true sanctuaries.
Lulu was kidnapped from her family in Swaziland at age two and sent to the San Francisco Zoo, where life was difficult. Another elephant dominated Lulu for years, often trapping her in a corner or blocking access to food. When Lulu arrived at PAWS in 2005, she was so anxious around other elephants she would literally crawl on her elbows and knees when in their presence. It was both the most unusual and saddest behavior we had ever seen in an elephant.
PAWS co-founders Ed Stewart and the late Pat Derby gently worked with Lulu until she was comfortable with her new companions. Today Lulu roams the grassy hills of her spacious natural habitat with friends Maggie and Toka, who consider her to be their “leader”! At PAWS Lulu was able to find her true self and regain her dignity.
In honor of National Elephant Appreciation Day, and to help with Lulu's ongoing care, won’t you make a donation today? Click on the "donate" link below.
Thank you!
