Lottie

Dear Friends, It is always difficult to have to pass along the news whenever we lose one of our beloved elephants—especially when their passing is so sudden. On the morning of October 10, Lottie was nowhere to be found when her caregiver headed out into the habitat to deliver the Girls their breakfast. Minnie was in Field 6 by herself, calmly grazing and offering us no hints on the whereabouts of her best friend. After organizing an expanded search, Lottie was finally discovered lying under a large cedar tree hidden behind some brush, with no sign of life. It was clear, based on Lottie's abnormal position and no evidence of struggle or distress, that she had passed away very quickly—as if she suddenly collapsed and passed in an instant. In the absence of any answers, we managed to find some solace in the final expression on Lottie's face; there was a peace beyond words. A necropsy was conducted on Tuesday, but the initial exam did not offer us anything immediately conclusive, so it may be many months before pathologists are able to analyze the lab reports and deliver their findings. Minnie is foremost in our thoughts right now. So far she has been calm, quiet and grounded. She continues to routinely graze and socialize with Debbie and Ronnie. At this stage, in many ways she seems to be handling Lottie's absence with more composure than the rest of us. We will continue to monitor her very closely and offer her any extra support should she need it. For us, Lottie's legacy will never be forgotten. A soft, quiet "mother figure" and peacemaker who seemed to have a calming, neutral influence among the Divas, especially when it came to Minnie. With long, lovely eyelashes and gentle eyes, we know Lottie continues to watch over the Sanctuary and her sisters in spirit. Namaste, sweet girl. ------------------------------------------- Visit Lottie's Memorial Page Leave a Tribute to Lottie Asian Diary Entries