Monarto Safari Park's two elephants come face to face

Monarto Safari Park's elephant herd is expanding with the arrival of female Asian Elephant Permai last Wednesday.

After a 40-hour, 2700km journey across the Nullarbor, 35-year-old Permai and her team of veterinarians and keeping staff arrived safely.

Permai is now resting in the elephant barn, joining Burma who was the first elephant to be welcomed into Monarto Safari Park late last year.

John Lemon, Perth Zoo acting director of life sciences said the epic trip went well, with plenty of peanut butter sandwiches and watermelon packed in her trunk to keep her content.

“It is certainly a relief to see Permai take her first steps into her new home at Monarto Safari Park,” he said.

“Understandably she was very tired when she arrived, and would have needed a good sleep in her beautiful new barn. 

“Her welfare has always been our absolute priority and I am exceptionally proud of the entire team for getting her to her forever home safely. 

“Now, we can't wait to see her start this new chapter and hopefully soon develop a bond with Burma,” he said.

During their first interaction, both elephants displayed curiosity and gentle behaviours towards each other, which is a great first step towards further interactions in the future.

The elephant barn provides a safe and secure space to recover and adapt to the new sights, sounds, and smells of the Mallee Plains.

Monarto Safari Park manager of elephants, Andrew Coers, said the team will then be guided by Permai herself as to when she feels comfortable to explore the wider habitat.

“We’re all very hopeful that Permai and Burma will forge a strong friendship as the two founding members of the new Monarto Safari Park herd,” he said.

“We will closely monitor both of the girl’s behaviour over the next period to gauge not only how Permai is adjusting to her new home."

In 2023 it was announced that elephants would be coming to Monarto with Pak Boon and Tang Mo from Taronga Zoo Sydney, and male Putra Mas from Perth Zoo to join later in the year.

Director of Monarto Safari Park, Peter Clark, said Permai’s arrival marks the next step in Zoos SA’s elephant journey.

“It takes more than one elephant to form a herd; so we are so excited for Permai to join Burma here at Monarto Safari Park,” he said.

“Bringing elephants to South Australia has been a jumbo journey and one that we’ve seen spark such an outpouring of love and support from the community."

Zoos SA will keep the public updated on when Permai will be visible on habitat.

Book your tickets before you visit

Non-members are encouraged to pre-book their date specific tickets, either online or through the Zoos SA bookings team.

Zoos SA members are not required to book, and will be able to enter the park on any day of their choosing by presenting valid membership card and photo ID.

• Tickets $49: https://www.monartosafari.com.au/tickets/