Relocated Perth Zoo elephant settles into new South Australian home

The elephant moved from Perth Zoo to South Australia’s Monarto Safari Park has now arrived at her new home and has been pictured interacting with her new neighbour, Burma.

Heartwarming images show Permai locking trunks with Burma following keepers having successfully introduced the pair - the first of a new five-elephant strong herd to take up residence in South Australia.

After not having had elephant company for a while, both females were supported by their dedicated carers. Burma was a little shy at first, but they came together to say ‘hello’ through mesh contact in their barn. During their first interaction, both elephants displayed curiosity and gentle behaviours towards each other, which is a great first step and we are hopeful they will forge a strong friendship.

Permai arrived in South Australia after a gruelling 40-hour trip across the Nullarbor from Perth Zoo, with staff saying they were thrilled the relocation had been managed safely.

Monarto Safari Park Elephant Manager, Andrew Coers said the introduction on Wednesday evening had gone well, stating “you want them to come together. They link trunks, they put trunks over each other, and they give a little bit of push and shove.

“That’s all good stuff. They’re just trying to suss each other out.

“In the first instance, when she first arrived, we felt like Burma actually knew that there was another elephant in the area, and there was a bit of reluctance to come into the barn.”

Perth Zoo life sciences director John Lemon said the arrival was bittersweet for the WA team who travelled east with Permai.

Plans are underway to bring Permai’s former Perth neighbour - bull elephant Putra Mas - to the Monarto Safari Park in June or July, after his hormonal ‘musth’ period ends.

With female elephants living in matriarchal societies, the move for Permai was based on providing her with a herd social structure in which she can thrive.

Images: Former Perth Zoo elephant Permai meets new friend Burma at Monarto Safari Park. Credit: Perth Zoo.