Funds for European sanctuary for retired elephants

EHEES Quarterly Report - August – November

Overview

During this quarter, Delhi and Gandhi continued their journey at EHEES, marked by birthdays, health monitoring, evolving social dynamics, and important progress in the expansion of the sanctuary. Below is a monthly overview of key moments and developments.

August

On 24 August, we celebrated Delhi’s 42nd birthday, as well as her third anniversary at EHEES. We remain deeply grateful to Zoo Ústí nad Labem for trusting EHEES as Delhi’s forever home.

Delhi is now fully adapted to her new environment. She remains curious and alert, immediately noticing even the smallest changes. If something new can be played with—or eventually broken—she is always the first to investigate. She greatly enjoys her walks and her favourite “splash moments” in the clay bath.

Although Delhi and Gandhi have very different personalities, they quickly developed a friendship. Recently, both elephants have shown a need for more personal space, yet it is clear that their bond remains. We are confident that, in their own way, they continue to share a deep connection and celebrated Delhi’s birthday together in a manner that suits them best.

Both elephants would like to thank everyone for the continued support they receive.

September

Delhi and Gandhi remain two very distinct individuals who have nevertheless built a strong bond over time. As mentioned in previous updates, they are currently having a “time-out” in their relationship. This period allows each elephant to recover and progress at her own pace.

They still have constant access to one another, both indoors and outdoors, day and night, through the fences. Interactions vary greatly—from vocal communication and physical contact to moments of complete distance. Sometimes Gandhi calls out to Delhi, while at other times she moves away. Delhi may approach Gandhi energetically and then gently touch her with her trunk, or they may simply stand quietly near one another.

Despite this variability, there are many signs that their friendship has not disappeared. A touching moment was observed when Gandhi brought hay to Delhi and placed it between them so they could eat together. When Delhi wakes up, she often looks for Gandhi, and brief interactions occur when they are close.

Health & Monitoring

We weigh both elephants monthly to monitor their general condition.

- Delhi: 3,780 kg
- Gandhi: 3,016 kg

Both weights remained stable compared to the previous month.

Gandhi is experiencing some muscle loss due to increased discomfort, particularly related to her right hind foot and left hip. We are awaiting the specialist veterinarian to perform additional X-rays. With the support of The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee (TES), a protective X-ray box has been constructed, allowing for improved imaging. Gandhi is responding very well to the training required to place her foot on the box.

Did you know?
The name Gandhi is of Indian (Sanskrit) origin and means Sun.

October

On 14 October, we celebrated Gandhi’s 56th birthday, as well as her fourth anniversary at EHEES. We are extremely thankful to Pontscorff Zoo for allowing Gandhi to come to the sanctuary.

Over the past four years, Gandhi has experienced many changes, including the arrival of Delhi three years ago. After a period of adjustment, a beautiful friendship developed. Although Gandhi’s health is currently experiencing a slight setback, and her relationship with Delhi remains in a quieter phase, encouraging signs show that their bond continues.

Gandhi benefits from having time to rest, helping her heal and process past experiences. We are confident that, despite everything, Gandhi and Delhi found their own way to mark this special occasion together.

Both elephants once again extend their heartfelt thanks to all supporters.

Infrastructure Update

A construction kit for a Frisomat storage hangar has safely arrived at EHEES. This hangar will be used for future storage and represents an important step in the expansion of the sanctuary.

We would like to sincerely thank:

- Frisomat, represented by Guy Somers, for donating the hangar
- Transport Stynen for transportation
- Marc Van Grootel for coordinating the project

This achievement brings EHEES one step closer to welcoming more elephants.

November

Delhi and Gandhi, the first two elephants to call EHEES their forever home, continue to live peacefully in the green heart of France. Their days are filled with grazing, exploring, enjoying mud and clay pools, and being cared for by a dedicated team.

As EHEES is frequently contacted to provide retirement homes for elephants from European zoos and circuses, the need for expansion has become increasingly urgent. Significant progress has been made: nearly all required authorisations have been obtained, and construction of the first outdoor enclosures and connecting passages is well underway.

Plans include building a second barn and additional enclosures so more elephants can join the sanctuary and enjoy a life of peace and dignity.

A Light-Hearted Moment

A small smile from daily life at EHEES:
Sometimes elephants prefer to come inside to relieve themselves—especially right after the barn has been freshly cleaned. Recently, one of the ladies showed impressive accuracy by aiming perfectly into a car tyre they usually enjoy playing with!

Thanks again to all for your continued support, from Gandhi, Delhi and all the EHEES team.
And... see you next report!

Links:

• EHEES website