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Sad farewell: Elephants Rani and Savani leave Leipzig Zoo!
Leipzig Zoo gives elephants Rani and Savani to Munich. The animals are transported and acclimated carefully.
Sad farewell: Elephants Rani and Savani leave Leipzig Zoo!
Leipzig Zoo is celebrating its 147th birthday today, but overshadowed by a sad event: the two elephants Rani and her daughter Savani have had to leave the zoo. A large crane was visible at the zoo on May 20 to transport a large green container containing the two elephants. The transport was announced to spare Rani the difficulties she had in the existing herd. Their integration into the Leipzig elephant herd has recently been marked by conflicts, particularly with the elephants Kewa and Astra. This led to frequent separations from Rani, which ultimately led to the decision to give the animals to the Munich Zoo. According to Tag24, the move was a recommendation of the European Endangered Species Breeding Program (EEP) to give Rani and Savani the opportunity to build their own family line.
The transport itself went smoothly and both animals were able to explore their new quarters after their arrival. Two trusted keepers from Leipzig accompanied Rani and Savani and will remain on site to help the elephants settle in. Zoo director Rasem Baban from Munich emphasizes the importance of a careful transition phase. The two elephants should be gradually acclimated to their new roommates Otto, Temi, Mangala and Gajendra in order to avoid tension and allow them to adapt gently.
Background and breeding programs
The decision to give up Rani and Savani is also related to the requirements and objectives of the European Conservation Breeding Program. This program was created to ensure genetic diversity in zoos after the “Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species” came into force in 1975. As a result, zoos had to care for their own offspring in order to avoid inbreeding and prevent genetic defects. This has led to increased cooperation between European zoos, which exchange animals and develop breeding programs.
Today's structure and standards for keeping zoo animals are based on more than 100 instructions established by the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA). These standards are critical for species conservation, research and visitor education. Zoos must adhere to strict EAZA guidelines to ensure responsible animal handling and welfare, which is particularly important in cases like Rani and Savani to ensure the animals' well-being and support their integration into new communities.