Assorted Elephant pictures #3--Bertram Mills Circus-- Continued

The post below was sent to Buckles Blog on 4/10/08 under the picture Elephant pictures #3 in an effort to understand the elephant trunk issue that has been raised often, but not addressed to well. It goes without saying that for some reason it was censored and not posted. Somebody else answer why? I don't know.



Buckles and Johnny
On 12/24/06 there was a mention of "paralyzed beaks" again, in reference to "English" elephants, which Darryl seemed to confirm. I think a lot of people learned from that, and are grateful Johnny brought it up again, as his credentials were verified by Jimmy Cole, and Jimmy Hall in 2006, and I assume they haven't "expired" in 2008. Yet I have asked him for his thoughts 6 or 7 times, and even you Buckles suggested he elaborate. Well here is another opportunity. I also note there was no mention of a "vitamin deficiency" in the 06 discussion. Is that a new conclusion/finding?

Jimmy Cole said...

As a circus photographer I will have to comment that it is totally possible that who ever took this picture was either early or late in catching the trick on film. Many a good circus act has had "off time" photos make them look bad. I have a whole box of them that I have taken that I never show anyone.

On the other hand, I can only respect the observations of a great animal trainer like John Herriott. His years in the circus ring, and observing other trainers with a professional eye, certainly give his views a lot of credibility.

25 December, 2006 07:00

Anonymous johnny said...

I count 4 out 6 trunked up but would have to give a 50-50 on the one with her back to us.

johnny said...

I will note that in photos of European elephant acts that we see more Paralized beaks than American circus elephants. Why is that? I have no idea.

25 December, 2006 08:49

anonymous said....
This is the great thing about this blog, we hear comments from both the fans and the pro's. We are all 100% circus, regardless of our opinions. Looking forward to the 2007 season of Buckles Blog.... The Greatest Blog Site on Earth! (shit, can I say that?)

25 December, 2006 09:10

Darryl said...

Johnny, in Europe the animal rights groups caught on faster than here. Many in England causing the outlawing of the use of an elephant hook. A stick with a sharp prod was the result which is a great detriment to the elephants. Another case of damage being done by unknowledgeable do gooders.

25 December, 2006 13:04

J C Hall said...

To Jimmiy Cole
It is quite admiral of you to hang paper for Mr Herriott. I never once ever felt that he needed it with his credencials,on the other hand maybe I should apologize?

Wade Burck