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Elephant mom Rani and daughter Savani: A new life in Munich!
Rani and Savani, elephants from Leipzig Zoo, are moving to Hellabrunn in Munich for a better herd situation.
Elephant mom Rani and daughter Savani: A new life in Munich!
The female elephant Rani and her daughter Savani recently left Leipzig Zoo and now live in Hellabrunn Zoo in Munich. The move took place on May 20, 2025, when the two Asian elephants were safely brought to Munich in a special transporter. The transport went smoothly and both Rani and Savani explored their new quarters at their leisure upon arrival. Trusted carers accompanied the elephants and stayed on site for the first few days to ensure safety and security.
The release of Rani and Savani was based on the recommendation of the European Endangered Species Program (EEP). This program aims to establish a separate matriline for the two elephants. According to Thueringen24.de, it was not possible for Rani to be permanently integrated into the existing herd structure in Leipzig under the leadership of lead cow Kewa. This led to tensions with other elephants, particularly Kewa and Astra, which often resulted in separation from the herd. A permanently unsatisfactory situation for the social herd animals had to be avoided.
New life in Hellabrunn Zoo
Rani and Savani seem to be doing well in their new home in Munich. They will be gradually accustomed to the Hellabrunn elephant group, with the acclimatization taking place in quiet stages and under strict observation by the animal care team. Zoo director Rasem Baban emphasizes that the careful acclimatization of the two elephants is a top priority. Bull Gajendra is also showing interest in Rani, which gives rise to hope for a new herd structure.
When she arrives in Munich, Rani has the opportunity to look after her children again. The new circumstances allow her to take on responsibility within the herd, as in elephant families all females are responsible for the young. Rani now has two children, and the Munich carers are optimistic that one day she will also be able to live as a grandmother when Savani has children of her own.
Documentation in MDR
The transition period for elephants is also documented in the MDR documentary soap “Elefant, Tiger & Co”. In particular, episode 1131, which aired on June 6, 2025, will show bull Otto approaching the new female. New episodes of the documentary soap can be seen every Friday at 7:50 p.m. on 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 welfare of the animals comes first and the move is an important step in providing the two elephants with an optimal living environment.