Caring for Elephants

The Little Rock Zoo is proud to serve as a sanctuary for aging elephants, specializing in the care of geriatric females. With decades of experience and a strong commitment to animal welfare, the Zoo has established itself as a leader in providing extraordinary care for older elephants. Currently home to two residents, Babe and Zina, the Zoo’s facilities and expertise are uniquely tailored to meet the needs of elephants aged 45 and older.

An Elephant Retirement Home

Unlike many zoos, the Little Rock Zoo exclusively houses geriatric female elephants due to its enclosure design, featuring three separate yards. This setup provides a safe and enriching environment where older females can thrive. Male elephants and younger females often require specialized spaces for breeding and herd dynamics, but the Little Rock Zoo’s focus allows it to meet the distinct needs of elderly elephants. Kristin Grove, the Zoo's Curator of Hoofstock, likens the facility to a retirement home, explaining, “We consider ourselves like a nursing home for older female elephants.” This specialization has made the Zoo a preferred choice for elephants with unique health needs.

Comprehensive and Personalized Care

Caring for aging elephants requires more than routine feeding and habitat maintenance—it demands a multifaceted approach that addresses their physical, emotional, and social needs. Each elephant at the Zoo receives a personalized care plan designed to manage conditions common in elderly elephants, such as arthritis. These plans often include maintenance medications, physical therapy, and enrichment activities tailored to enhance their quality of life.

The elephants’ habitat is tailored to support their well-being. Soft, rolling hills offer spaces for rest and relaxation, while mud wallows provide cooling and skin care. A pool encourages swimming and gentle exercise to maintain muscle tone, and a variety of enrichment tools, such as puzzle feeders and hanging toys, keep the elephants mentally engaged. Inside their barn, the flooring features advanced cushioned materials, offering added comfort and support for aging joints.