A team of animal care staff from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park went on the road this week with a 7,500-pound traveling companion named Vus’Musi. The 11-year-old male elephant—who is affectionately called “Moose” or “Moosey” by his keepers—was moved to a new home at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo on Thursday, August 20.
This move is part of a breeding loan recommended by the Species Survival Plan program, managed within zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Upon his arrival, Vus’Musi was placed in a holding area that allowed him to see his two new herd members, females Amy and Betts. He won’t have won’t have physical access until he has completed his quarantine at Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
This fall, all three elephants will be living in the multi-species African Adventure exhibit. Opening October 15, the area features savannas, pools and waterfalls. The other species included in the new African Adventure exhibit include lions, cheetahs, rhinos and meerkats.
