[Video] Mila the Elephant Finds Friendship After 37 Years of Solitude

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After spending 37 years in isolation, Mila, a 41-year-old elephant, has finally found companionship among her kind.

Recently introduced to the herd’s matriarch at the San Diego Zoo, Mila had been living a solitary life in a circus before her rescue.

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The rescue operation, led by the team at Franklin Zoo in New Zealand, brought Mila to safety, and she is now gradually warming up to her new environment and fellow elephants.

In a touching moment, Mila and the matriarch, Mary, were seen gently entwining their trunks—a familiar elephant gesture for expressing feelings and communication.

Experts explain that elephants use their trunks for more than just touching; they play a crucial role in smelling and connecting with other elephants in the group.

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Rubbing trunks serve as a greeting, allowing elephants to gather information about each other.

Mila’s former keeper, Helen Schofield, had always dreamed of seeing the elephant integrated with others of her kind.

Following a tragic accident at the Franklin Zoo, a fundraising campaign was launched, raising $1.5 million to facilitate Mila’s move to the San Diego Zoo. This significant contribution finally enabled Mila to join a group of African elephants.

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At her new home, zookeepers gradually introduced Mila to her new herd, starting with Mary, who was known for her calm and dominant nature.

The introduction proved successful, as Mary showed curiosity towards Mila, who was initially stunned to meet another elephant her size.

The San Diego Zoo is home to Indian and African elephants, ranging in age from 33 to 49 years, providing Mila with a diverse and supportive environment.

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The heartwarming scene of Mila and Mary’s first interaction marks the beginning of a hopeful new chapter in Mila’s life.

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