Elephants Jana and Praya, rescued from a circus and housed at Amiens Zoo until 2017, are preparing to head for Morocco on July 22. They will find their new home in the Aïn Sebaa park, near Casablanca, where they will benefit from improved living conditions.
Claire Gilissen, spokeswoman for the Pairi Daiza park in Belgium, where they have been staying for the past seven years, explained that this relocation is necessary because of their advanced age and care needs. «It's an opportunity that has arisen for these old ladies», she told France 3.
While initially intended as a temporary home, Pairi Daiza park is no longer the most suitable environment for the 47-year-old elephants. The two elephants, who were suffering from behavioral problems due to their years spent in circuses, have seen their condition improve thanks to specific care and herbal food supplements. Despite a marked improvement in their health, they now require a more suitable environment.
The elephants' transport to Morocco was meticulously prepared to ensure their comfort and minimize stress. They have undergone health checks and have familiarized themselves with their transport crate. A caretaker will accompany them, while another will already be on site to check the reception conditions. Coordination between the Belgian and Moroccan caretakers will continue for several months to ensure a smooth transition.
*On average, elephants have a lifespan of 60 years.