Go Green - Treating Elephants Ethically

OVERVIEW

Interact with rescued elephants that are now living with dignity and respect in an elephant sanctuary. As an introduction, the staff will describe the elephants’ prior lives, which often involved being exploited for labor in the logging industry. You will see firsthand how they are now treated ethically and humanely. You may watch these highly intelligent animals socializing, wading through water and rolling in the mud, which how elephants naturally cool down and protect their skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Elephants consume hundreds of pounds of food each day, and you will have the opportunity to prepare a meal for them with ingredients such as bananas, sugar cane and watermelons. In the wild, elephants eat a remarkably wide array of plants, but the sanctuary elephants must be fed vitamin balls to supplement their diets. While observing the animals, you will likely notice their individual personalities and the caring manner in which they relate to each other.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe rescued elephants in a sanctuary that is similar to their natural habitat.
• Take comfort in knowing that the elephants are now being treated ethically and humanely.
• Learn about elephant behavior, their diets and how they care for each other.
• Prepare a nutritious meal weighing hundreds of pounds for the elephants.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.