The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) has announced it is looking at options for the retirement of Charley, an elephant at the Pretoria National Zoological Garden.
Picture: Pretoria National Zoological Garden
‘This decision follows a number of considerations, among others, the elephant’s advanced age. The retirement may include giving Charley the opportunity to have a partner following the death of his late partner Landa, in 2019. Charley the elephant (aged 42) has been at the National Zoological Gardens for over 22 years after being exposed to a circus environment for about 20 years,’ the statement reads.
A comprehensive medical assessment was done on Charley which covered hematological and blood chemistry analyses, fecal glucocorticoid metabolites analysis, bronchoalveolar lavage and a trunk wash, radiology of distal extremities, a dental and eye examination, as well as screening for tuberculosis (TB). The assessment showed that the elephant is in good health.
‘SANBI is working on a suitable retirement venue option for a sanctuary and would benefit from cooperation and support from stakeholders and partners to ensure the continued welfare of the elephant. The requisite pre-release protocols including but not limited to psychological and behavioural assessment are being facilitated,’ SANBI adds.
The date for retirement will be announced once all processes have been finalised.
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