"Unchained - The Elephants of Bandung Zoological Gardens
We are extraordinarily happy to announce that
The enclosure and holding dens of the elephants had decayed after years of exposure to the natural elements and lack of maintenance. The fencing of the enclosure had fallen down in sections and the holding area had numerous broken poles.
This caused the elephants to be chained and restricted all movement. Although Selma and Ira remained very healthy, it was obviously not humane to have these intelligent beings chained 24/7. While work began on the enclosure approximately 4 months ago, we worked to have the heavy chaining removed (3 feet chained) and to get Selma and Ira walking daily for long distances. Bullhooks that were used daily have been put aside and only available under emergency situations. (Bullhooks were originally designed only to be used in emergency situations. In some places, bullhooks became a tool of utter abuse). This was achieved by education and training. Under Veterinary supervision, the diet of the elephants was also up-scaled. With increased physical activity and dietary changes, the physical appearance of Selma and Ira began to change to a more positive healthy definition and their demeanor became more relaxed. They began to express positive behaviors and became more “joyful”. However, the goal was always to get both female elephants completely off their chains.
This was achieved by replacing the old outside enclosure fencing with electrical fencing and the holding dens had to be completely rebuilt. Some of the equipment was sourced in Bandung and some of the sourced and brought from Melbourne, Australia. New roofing and drainage was added, plus the over grown outside enclosure was landscaped.
New fencing on side barriers L & R
The pool inside the elephants enclosure has been cleared of debris and objects. This is an ongoing part of the project with filtration and drainage still in progress, however the elephants can bath whenever they want. A mud/dirt patch is also available for them to roll around in.
Selma and Ira’s journey has been one of compassion and kindness, determination to provide a humane life for these elephants that must remain in captivity.
In conjunction with Indonesian Zoos and Aquariums, Taman Safari Bogor, Cee4life and the wonderful open hearts of the staff of Bandung Zoological Gardens, Selma and Ira are unchained. This is a spectacular outcome for the zoo that has battled so hard to provide correct care for the animals under their care. The Bandung Zoological Gardens was been subjected to very unfair and defamatory attacks caused by false information of starving sun-bears. No animal has ever been subjected to starvation inside the zoo, however the living standards always needed upgrading. This is happening now.
Please stay with us on the journey of Bandung Zoological Gardens that aims to set a high standard with the hope that other zoos will see this amazing act of humanity and love for the animals in captive situations. The sun-bears are next!
We would like to say a special thankyou to Isa and Paula Mckenzie Mun’in for their support, who carried equipment from Melbourne to Jakarta, plus all other contributors.
If you would like to support this extraordinary project, please go to http://www.cee4life.org/supporters
Thankyou for staying with us on this journey for compassion to the animals who must be in captivity
The only things that are impossible is if you say they are.
Never Give Up"
