The Elephant Sanctuary welcomes Asian elephant

Female Asian elephant, Nichole, arrived safely at The Elephant Sanctuary from San Antonio Zoo early on Thursday, March 9, 2023 officially making her one of 11 elephants now living at The Sanctuary and the 30th elephant resident since The Sanctuary was founded in 1995.

Nichole arrived just as the sun was rising, with a beautiful pink and violet sky to welcome her to her new home. The Elephant Sanctuary's Care Staff and Vet Team greeted her with fresh water, favorite foods, and enrichment to make sure she was comfortable. She began to explore her surroundings inside the barn right away, intrigued by the enrichment, dusting herself with sand, and touching everything with her trunk.

"It has been an exciting year for The Sanctuary as our herd continues to grow! We are honored to have the opportunity to care for Nichole as she ages," says Janice Zeitlin, CEO of The Sanctuary. "We have been modifying facilities and cross-training staff to ensure a comfortable transition for her. Nichole will be provided with space and opportunity to explore her new surroundings at her own pace."