A New Elephant Sanctuary Opens on an Orange Grove in Florida

asian elephant

CURATED BY NIKI DE WITT

Once a private citrus grove, the 225-acre property has been transformed into the National Elephant Center, a sanctuary for elephants in Florida. Upon discovering the oranges, the elephants feasted on nearly 300 oranges a day until they were all gone.

FROM TREEHUGGER

The National Elephant Center in Fellsmere, Florida welcomed its first pachyderms in May this year. The group consisted of two adult females and two adolescent males. The National Elephant center is the first elephant sanctuary of its kind, created to by members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to help ensure the long-term survival of both the Asian and African species. African elephants are considered to be vulnerable, and Asian elephants are endangered.

According to the center’s website, the 225-acre property has been outfitted with four barns, watering holes, and large meanders for the elephants to explore. The property was once a private citrus grove, and it didn’t take long for the new residents to discover the fruit, executive director John Lehnhardt told the AP’s Suzette Laboy:”…Continue Reading

ABOUT THE CURATOR

Niki is currently exploring Asia while working on a children’s book series about travel. As a child, she traveled and moved often for her parents’ jobs. As a result of this, she has always felt most at home when she’s off and away. She is interested in international films, working on building an impressive tea collection, and can often be found with her camera in hand. You can have a look-see at her blog and follow her on Twitter @nikidding.

Photo by ArranET

 

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