The scheduled relocation of Perth Zoo’s last remaining elephant, Putra Mas, to South Australia’s Monarto Safari Park has been postponed. This delay arises as the park continues to integrate four female elephants that arrived earlier this year.
Originally planned for June or July, the move of the male Asian elephant has been deferred, with expectations now set for later in the year. According to John Lemon, Perth Zoo’s Acting Director of Life Sciences, “Monarto is still managing the introductions of the females.” He elaborated that they are undertaking “fence-line contact” to help the four elephants form a cohesive herd or at least share the same habitat.
Challenges in Elephant Integration
The delay in Putra Mas’s move follows the earlier relocation of the female elephant Permai from Perth Zoo to Monarto in January. Permai joined another elephant, Burma, from Auckland Zoo, and two additional females from Taronga Zoo. The integration process is crucial, as it ensures the elephants can coexist peacefully.
Additionally, Putra Mas’s move was contingent upon him completing a period of musth—a hormonal condition that can lead to aggressive behavior in male elephants. Delays in completing necessary habitat works at Monarto Safari Park have also contributed to the postponement. However, Lemon remains optimistic that Putra Mas will be in South Australia by the end of the year, stating, “We’re just on elephant time.”
“There’s still the introductions, they won’t hold us up. If they’re not together, we’ll still look at moving our boy, but there is also some facility works that need to be finished.” – John Lemon
Implications for Perth Zoo’s Future Plans
Meanwhile, Perth Zoo’s plans to introduce two southern white rhinos have also hit a snag due to health concerns. The female rhinos intended for transfer have encountered unexpected health issues, rendering them unsuitable for transportation. Consequently, these rhinos will remain at Werribee’s Open Range Zoo.
The arrival of the rhinos was initially intended to coincide with the departure of male rhino Bakari, who was to join a regional breeding program. However, Bakari will stay in Perth as alternative breeding options are explored. Lemon emphasized the importance of genetic diversity in breeding programs, stating, “There is quite a lot of science that goes into what his genetics can contribute to the regional program.”
Ongoing Developments at Perth Zoo
Despite these setbacks, Perth Zoo is moving forward with its ambitious plans for a $30 million upgrade to the African Savanna exhibit. Lemon assured that the delay in Putra Mas’s move would not affect the timing of this redevelopment. The zoo has been undergoing significant construction in recent years, with new enclosures, such as the recently opened gibbon habitat, enhancing visitor experiences.
The zoo’s efforts to modernize and expand its facilities reflect a broader trend in zoological parks worldwide, where emphasis is placed on creating environments that closely mimic natural habitats, thereby improving animal welfare and visitor engagement.
As the situation progresses, Perth Zoo remains committed to ensuring the well-being of its animals while advancing its conservation and educational missions. The community eagerly anticipates the successful relocation of Putra Mas and the continued development of the zoo’s exhibits.
