Elephant mom Rani and daughter Savani: A new life in Munich!

Elephant mom Rani and daughter Savani: A new life in Munich!

The elephant lady Rani and her daughter Savani recently left the Leipzig Zoo and now live in the Hellabrunn zoo in Munich. The move took place on May 20, 2025 when the two Asian elephants were safely brought to Munich with a special van. The transport went smoothly, and both Rani and Savani explored their new quarters in peace after arriving. Familiar carers accompanied the elephants and stayed on site in the first few days to ensure security and security.

The Submission of Ranis and Savanis was on the recommendation of the European Conservation Breeding Program (EEP). This program aims to establish its own matril line for the two elephants. According to [thueringen24.de] (https://www.thueringen24.de/umland/article300519412/zooleipzig-news-elefant- and-co-co-park-hellbrunn-muenchen- flop) it was not possible for Rani, permanently in the existing herd structure in Leipzig under the direction of Leipkuh KEWA to be integrated. This led to tensions with other elephants, especially with Kewa and Astra, which often resulted in separations from the herd. A permanently unsatisfactory situation for the social herd animals had to be avoided.

New life in the Hellabrunn zoo

Rani and Savani seem to be well arrived in their new home in Munich. They are gradually used to the Hellabrunner elephant group, with the acclimation in calm stages and with strict observation of the zoo team. Animal park director Rasem Baban emphasizes that the careful settlement of the two elephants has top priority. Bulle Gajendra also shows interest in Rani, which inspires the hope of a new herd structure.

With the arrival in Munich, Rani has the opportunity to take care of her children. The new circumstances enable her to take personal responsibility within the herd, since all females are responsible for the boys in elephant families. Rani now has two children, and the Munich carers are optimistic that one day she can also experience as a grandma when Savani has her own offspring.

documentation in the MDR

The transition period of the elephants is also documented in the MDR documentary soap "Elefant, Tiger & Co". Especially in episode 1131, which was broadcast on June 6, 2025, Bulle Otto will be seen on the new female. New episodes of the documentary soap can be seen every Friday at 7:50 p.m. in the MDR and in the ARD media library.

The story of Rani and Savani is another example of the challenges and opportunities in animal husbandry and breeding in zoos. The well -being of the animals comes first, and the move is an important step to offer the two elephants an optimal living environment.