KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Edie is getting ready to head to her new home at The Elephant Sanctuary of Tennessee.
Zoo Knoxville announced they will host a public farewell for Edie the elephant on Saturday, Nov. 11 through Sunday, Nov. 12. The zoo said the community can share their favorite photos of Edie to commemorate her time in Knoxville.
In 2022, Zoo Knoxville announced that its African elephants will be moving to The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee as part of their end-of-life care plan. The zoo said they made this decision to make sure the elephant's individual and unique social needs would be met for the remainder of their lives.
“Our elephants have thrived here at Zoo Knoxville, but it is time for the next chapter of their lives,” Lisa New, Zoo Knoxville president and CEO, said. “Transitioning to the care of our AZA colleagues at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, where they are assured the companionship each of them is accustomed to for the remainder of their lives, is part of the commitment we made to care for them from birth to death. It is a decision we did not take lightly, but we know ultimately it is the right one.”
The zoo said elephant caretakers have been working with Edie to voluntarily enter and stand in a travel crate with positive reinforcement.
Now that Edie is comfortable with this routine, she will make the move accompanied by her care staff and veterinarians and be followed later by male Tonka, according to the zoo.