Meet Osh, The Newest Resident at the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee

Bunny the Elephant: An Evansville Icon

If you've lived in Evansville for a while, you’ve likely heard of Bunny the Elephant, a beloved resident of Mesker Zoo. Born in Asia, Bunny spent most of her life in Evansville before being relocated to the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee in her later years. The move was prompted by chronic pain conditions, and the sanctuary offered her the chance to live among other elephants and explore thousands of acres. Bunny passed away in 2009 after a decade of retirement, leaving behind a legacy cherished by the Evansville community.

The History of the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee

Founded in 1995 by former elephant trainer Carol Buckley, the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee (TES) began as a 113-acre haven for elephants. It was initially created to provide a safe retirement space for Carol's former elephant partner, Tara. Over the years, TES has grown significantly, gaining nonprofit status and expanding its mission to include elephant welfare and public education about the plight of elephants in the wild.

A Safe Haven for Elephants

Today, TES is home to multiple elephants from across the United States. I counted 13 on their website. The sanctuary provides care for both Indian and African elephants, some of whom were born as early as the 1960s. Elephants at TES enjoy a safe, enriching environment where they can roam freely and live in a herd.

Did you know?

According to the African Wildlife Foundation, bush elephants have a median lifespan of about 58 years, but they can live into their 70s! And studies show that wild elephants actually live longer than those in captivity.

Welcoming Osh: A New Addition to the Sanctuary

In October, TES welcomed a new resident, Osh, an African elephant born in captivity at Howletts Wild Animal Park in England in 1994. Osh lived at the Oakland Zoo in California for nearly two decades with companions Donna, M’Dunda, and Lisa. When his herd mates passed away, the zoo decided that TES would be the best place for Osh to thrive, especially since Donna had already been relocated to the sanctuary the previous year.

A Journey Across the Country

Osh's journey to Tennessee was no small feat. He traveled 46 hours by semi-truck, accompanied by two caretakers who monitored him via video feed and stopped every three hours for check-ins and snacks—watermelon was a favorite treat!

Adjusting to His New Home

Upon arrival, TES documented Osh's first interactions with his new surroundings. He explored the space, snacked on trees, and began getting to know his new herd mates. His transition marks another success story for TES in its mission to provide elephants with a safe and fulfilling life.

READ MORE: Hike with a Llama Deep in the Tennessee Woods

How to Get Involved with The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee

There are lots of ways to get involved with TES. If you are a hands-on learner, be sure to visit their Discovery Center in Hohenwald, TN. Admission is always free though donations are welcome. Their Education Staff is on hand during open hours to answer questions and guide your family through the exhibit space.

If you want to work with the elephants, they have a volunteer program - but don't get upset if you have to clean up elephant dung once in a while! They also offer volunteer days throughout the year. They also accept donations.