Umoya with her son, Emanti, last year.
Today the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and its African elephant herd are mourning the death of the spirited Umoya. As the mother of two calves, Phakamile and Emanti, she will be missed not only by these two but by the entire herd and the keepers who have worked so closely with her since she arrived at the Park in 2003.
Moya, as we called her, was 21 years old. She was born in Kruger National Park and was one of the original seven African elephants rescued from Swaziland from being culled because of an elephant overpopulation. She could often be seen walking backward in the exhibit, making her quick to identify among the females. Moya enjoyed training sessions with the keepers and was a very quick learner. Most importantly, she was a good mother.
Phakamile, or Kami for short, was born in 2007. Moya immediately cared for her first calf, keeping her close and making sure she grew healthy and strong. In 2010, Moya gave birth to Emanti, a male who is now 18 months old and just at the weaning stage. He will surely miss the caring reach of his mother’s trunk and her protective instincts, but he will have his big sister by his side. Kami has always been a good sister and even a good cousin, reaching out to all the younger calves.
Because the elephants live a natural herd structure, we believe their social interactions will keep Emanti and Kami safe and cared for. Their “aunties”—the other adult females—have always been known to care for each other’s calves, even encircling the calves when they think there is a problem. Some calves have even been seen nursing from their lactating aunts. Emanti should no longer need his mother’s milk. He has been eating solids for quite some time, and if this morning was any indication, he should progress well among the social unit that is the Park’s African elephant herd.
As they do in the wild, the herd was offered an opportunity to mourn Moya. The elephants came to see Moya after she died—some touched her with their trunks and others simply stood by her. By her side were Kami and Emanti, but once the others began to walk away, the two youngsters followed their aunts to an adjoining yard.
Animal care staff discovered Umoya lying down with injuries when they arrived at the Safari Park early Thursday morning. The injuries indicated there might have been an aggressive interaction with another elephant. We thank you in advance for all your well wishes and know that you, too, will feel this loss.
Yadira Galindo is a senior public relations specialist for San Diego Zoo Global. Read her previous post, Valentine’s Day, Mammoth Style.
my heart is broken…i’m sure not as bad as yours…she was second dominant and i hope you can let us know what happened…i hope the little guys will be ok too…lots of tears here…
So sad to hear this news! We JUST had the pleasure of spending a lot of time with the elephants during our Roar ‘n Snore overnight just days before. . . We’ve got great shots of Umoya, her two calves and some of the keepers hand-feeding them. Sorry for the loss.
-Karen, John & Brooke
How sad! I hope Emanti is ok.
Tears here, too, as I type, and I am at the office. I can’t believe it. Please let us know more – who the other elephant was and if it was injured.. That had to have been a dreadful fight for her to die of her injuries, a healthy young female. Maybe it is good some of the elephants will be leaving, maybe not enough space for this many to live peacefully. We have plans to spend this week end in San Diego and visit the park to see the new baby. We shall still visit, I just will have to bring lots of kleenex. I am simply crushed!
First, let me give you my condolences. She will be missed.
Out of curiosity, does this death affect the selection of animals going to the Reid Park zoo?
San Diego Zoo Global responds: We are still considering which elephants would move.
My heart goes out to all the keepers who do a wonderful job, God bless you all at this difficult time, i know her babies will be well looked after. I’ve been watching the elephants for a good while via the cam as i’ in the UK , i’m up with them as they get their breakfast and the elephants brighten my day, we’re all alot sadder today, RIP Amoya.
So sad! The ellie’s give me such joy, I am so sorry for your loss.
I hope there were cameras on the elephants during the night to give you some idea as to what happened. My thoughts are with all of the staff. Please take care.
You sure as shooting should ask Daphne Sheldrick about what Emanti should or should not eat since it is apparent the zoo does not know how to take care of orphans since it is printing that a baby that young does not need milk. Please tell me you are contacting DSWT to find out the formula they use.
*tears* So very sad. So sorry for your loss. RIP Umoya. You will be missed.
Moya was my favorite. Emanti was my first calf born that I watched on the cam. I’m very sad for all the keepers and SP…RIP Moya… you will be missed…
My heart breaks for your loss. I cannot imagine how devastated the keepers are today. Moya had a wonderful life at the park and I am hopeful her calves will carry on her spirited, kind nature. Thank you to all the keepers for the dedication and care you give these magnificant creatures. Rest in peace Moya.
I am so sad….breaks my heart. I am reading a book now called Zoo Life all about the Swazi elephants coming to the US – how coincidental to be reading about her and the others that came over with her. Is this common for elephants to fight so hard like that that one dies? My condolences to all of her keepers there – I know how much you love her and the rest of the ele group there.
Such heartbreaking news. I can’t imagine how devastated you all must be. So sad for her little ones, I very much hope they will be alright with their surrounding family. Do these types of aggressive interactions happen often and is there any reason to think that something like this might occur again? What could have caused this to happen? Sounds like she must’ve taken a quite a beating to have succumbed to her injuries. My thoughts and prayers are with the staff and the elephants, such a tough day for you all.
My thoughts are with the staff. As a keeper myself I understand how much our animals in our care mean to us.
Thank you Yadira for your beautiful words. My heart goes out to all of the other elephants, the keepers, the volunteers and the faithful guests who have enjoyed Moya’s quirky backward’s walk all of these years. I will miss her dearly.
I am so sorry to hear this sad, sad news. RIP Moya. She was a wonderful mama to her calves. I do hope Kami can in some way replace her for Emanti. Thankfully he was ready to be weaned.
I can only imagine how very hard this was for the keepers who not only cared for Moya, but discovered her this morning. My heart goes out to you all. I hope you can determine what happened just so you can know.
I didn’t realize that they would injure each other mortally like this, what a tragedy. Will the children be safe from whomever did this? This is so terribly sad
My condolences to all our wonderful, hard-working, dedicated elephant keepers. This is a big loss for you. Moya will be missed.
WOA!!! You have got to be kidding me!! I just now read this update about Umoya, and I am shocked, stunned, surprised, upset, and sad all at once!
This has got to be a huge loss for this ellie herd because they are all so close to each other mentally and psychologically. I only hope that she was not pregnant when she passed away and if she was, that would have been a double loss for all of you and the ellie herd. My heartfelt condolences to all of the ellie keepers, staff, and volunteers at WAP in the loss of this lovely mother of two, and condolences to the ellie herd. Since Kami is 4 years old, she is already well on her way towards being independent, but I am concerned about Emanti since he is only 18 months old and just starting the weaning process. Hopefully, his aunts will help him get thru this process without too many problems. I loved your way of letting the ellie herd honor and mourn Umoya in their traditional African way. They all needed that time to do this in their own way, and that was special for them. I’m sure that all of you were doing the same thing today. Please let all of us know what Umoya died of as soon as you get the necropsy report back. All of the ellie fans would like to know because by knowing the cause of death, we as humans can go forward to celebrate these ellies that are still together. Plus, we have 2 more baby ellie calves coming soon! The circle of life still goes on! 
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
So tragic. Thank goodness for the village of elephants!
I don’t know what to say. I’m so confused amidst all my sadness. I can’t imagine who could have done this to poor Moya. And I can’t imagine how painful this must be for all of you who loved and cared for her, and how devastating this must be for Kami and Emanti. Could Msholo have done this? I saw him shove Litsemba yesterday. But I don’t know who Moya was with last night, so I shouldn’t speculate. I just can’t understand it. None of this makes any sense to me. Please do try to let us know what happened, when you know and when you can….
What a sad news! I’m crying, I can not help. I only see them for the live camera, but I feel great affection for them! I understand there will not last that apparently attacked another elephant, and the guards did not feel noise! The inner chambers have to watch! Perhaps there could have been saved!
I am so sorry for your loss of Umoya. Condolences to the staff and zoo. I believe it’s going to be interesting to see how her offspring and family react after this sad news. What would cause an elephant to get so aggressive and attack one of their family like this?
Devestating news. Not knowing what actually happened is very scary. Will you have a night watch, at least temporarily? I’ve always worried something could happen to a baby at night, never did I think the tragedy would befall an adult.
What kind of injuries did she have?
RIP Beautiful Lady….Blessings to all of your keepers in their grief….We are all so shocked and so sad….and we will miss you so……I am sure that your ‘family’ will care for Kami and Emanti….they are your wonderful gifts and carry your spirit with them into the future…you have been loved from the moment we saw you…and you will always be in our hearts…..
Blessed Be With Love, judy j
this is very shocking and sorrowful news. I’m sorry for your loss. I hope the kids of Moya and also remaining elephants will recover emotionally and be safe.
I am shocked to hear this terrible news!!! What happened to her and who attacked her?? I hope there will be an investigation so this doesn’t happen again! What about her calves? I am broken hearted over this news. Was there any signs of aggression between her and another Elephant before?
At 18 months Emanti is at least another year and a half from being weaned from his mothers milk. Dr. Daphne Sheldrick who has been raising orphaned African elephants for over 50 years in Africa, bottle feeds her babies elephants at least until they are between 3 and 4 years old. She is considered an expert in the field of raising baby African elephants and returning them to the wild. The Zoo would do well to contact her about the milk formula she developed to nurture these orphans.
I totally agree. Everything I have read suggests Emanti is too young to be completely weaned.
I am so sorry Umoya passed away, moreover she was so yound and killed by one of her fellows. I would have thought there was 24h surveillance and medical assistance. Nobody saw the tragic incidence? I don’t understand why other elephants didn’t intervened and helped her, may be it happened so suddenly they couldn’t. Condolences to the staff.
Oh I am so sorry for the loss. I remember her because of her walking backward. This was mentioned at one time and I could recognize her by this. So sad for the babies. And yes it does take a Village to get good results. God Bless you all. Keep us updated. I also had a dear friend pass away yesterday, maybe they could Meet.
Peace and Love,
i am so upset and sad to hear this. how could this happen? i didnt know the females would attack each other like that. are we sure it was an elephant? this is just awful. i know everyone at the park must be so distraught. my heart goes out to the caregivers and the children of our dear Moya.
I was so sad yesterday, that I could not compose myself sufficiently to send comments. I do pray that it is possible to determine what actually happened and develop some type of intervention to prevent such a tragedy in the future. Is there an infrared camera that monitors the elephants at night? Only on the brightest moonlit nights is at possible to see elephants on the cam at night. Strength to all of the keepers and thank you for the wonderful care you give these precious elephants.
I was totally shocked, saddened, and also confused about the tragic events surrounding the death of Umoya yesterday morning. My heartfelt condolences to all staff who must be devasted by her passing, especially so if it is ultimately determined to have been caused by a fatal confrontation with another member of the herd. I sincerely hope that both for Kami and more so regarding younger Emanti, that they will be well cared for by the rest of the herd. Please keep us updated about any new findings. Thank you.
God bless you and keep you until we meet again sweet Umoya. My prayers are with the remaining herd and their keepers. It’s tough to understand what could have caused another elephant to act in an aggressive manner to cause such injuries but with wild animals they can be unpredictable. May you find peace during this very difficult time.
I haven’t been able to stop crying since I learned of this news yesterday. I keep thinking of Kami and Emanti, how horrible and frightening it must have been for them. And standing with their mother while she lay dying. And their first night alone, without her. But I know that the rest of the herd and their keepers will take good care of them, maybe especially Lungile, who knows what it is to suffer a tragic loss like this. Every morning, watching the cam has been such joy, but today it is just sadness. But it is nice to see that the herd seems to be doing ok. Thank you for showing us the cam today.
I think everyone else has expressed what I am feeling. I had no idea that I would feel such an impact upon learning the news. Today is tough, as yesterday was, but at least the shock has worn off a bit. I wish keepers and all at Safari Park and the San Diego Zoo my heartfelt condolences. I guess it’s difficult to accept what we don’t understand. Research and discovery will help in cases like these, just as when research and discovery are mastered during moments of celebration and joy. May peace be with dear Umoya now and forever.
I am so sorry to hear of this death, it truley breaks my heart… i am sure her calfs will miss her terribly and that the aunties will help watch over them. GodSpeed
Elephants are special…as park members, my husband and I know all the elephants and spend most of our day at their exhibit when we come each month from LA.
I watch the cam daily and only two weeks ago, we had a wonderful behind-the-scenes tour with keeper, Mindy, and saw Umoya, Kami, Emanti and Mabu up-close. I will always treasure that experience. I am heartbroken like so many others. My heart goes out to the keepers and especially for Kami and Emanti. It really is difficult to understand and many tears have been shed.
First off, let me say Thanks to San Diego Global for being upfront and talking about this situation with us guests, visitors and fans. It isn’t always easy for a Zoo (or any organization) to share such sad news when there are many unanswered questions.
Second, I would like to let those who are wondering know that Yes, things like this happen in the wild as well. I watched a documentary recently that showed a turf war between two elephant herds and one elephant was killed in the process.
Finally, since we are unaware of what exactly happened, it is VERY possible that this was all an accident. Because of the size of elephants, if they fall or get knocked over, there can sometimes be significant damage to internal organs that may ultimately lead to death. There are many cases of this documented in Zoos and in the wild. It is possible that Umoya was knocked over and was injured and unable to regain her footing and succumbed to her injuries. The necropsy results may shed some light on this, but they may not. Results usually take 6-10 weeks, sometimes longer.
My thoughts are with keepers, staff and volunteers and to the elephants. RIP Umoya
You make some very good points. I hope the cause of death was an accidental injury, or perhaps a spontaneous injury, like an acute abdomen or something. Apparently something like that could cause severe abdominal bruising in humans, so maybe it could for animals as well. In any event, we haven’t heard yet what kinds of injuries she sustained, so this is all conjecture. But I hope they find that the injuries were caused by something other than another elephant.
Well said Jeremy. Thank you. Sharron
This is so sad. Was there any sign that there was a problem prior to this incident? You must know who the aggressor was? Will this change your protocols, especially to safeguard her calves?
Can anyone identify these calves? This was snapped today.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/387969_182000055220638_100002319346426_353956_655757287_n.jpg
I saw these calves this morning, before the keepers let Ndula, Litsemba, and Swazi (and their kids) over to the western yard. I think these are Sundzu and Luti. At the time, Kami and Emanti were in the small enclosed yard in the eastern yard, with Umngani and her kids. Khosi seemed to be acting as big sister to the whole lot – Kami, Emanti, Ingadze, and Baby. I am glad to see Kami and Emanti seem to be behaving normally.
They seem a bit too big to be Luti and Sundzu…. but I could be wrong.
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Moya and the fact that her youngsters had to witness this terrible tragedy. My deepest condolences to all.
Hi! Just writing to see how Kami and Emanti are doing after losing their mom yesterday. Just watched the whole herd on the elliecam, and they are doing their thing in 2 yards, roaming around, checking things out. I’m wondering something, tho. Have these ellies gone back to the spot where Umoya died at since yesterday? I’m curious about how their memories work in this kind of situation. In Africa whenever one of the elderly elephant dies, the herd pays their last respects and mourns their loss at the spot where the ellie died at, then they move on. They have a lot of room to roam there, but I can only imagine when they cross that area again that they will stop to check it out again. Hope I will get an answer to this from one of the ellie keepers. That will be an interesting conversation about how the ellies’ brains work.
Will be checking in every once in awhile to see how the 2 kids are doing.
Chari Mercier
St. Pete, FL
My heart breaks for the staff and Elephant Herd. I hope Kami and Emanti will continue to do well in the wake of their mother’s death. I’m glad the other elephants have been taking care of them, so to speak. As odd as this might sound, I’m glad I only learned of her passing today as November 17th is my dad’s birthday and we lost him to cancer last year so finding out the day after what was already an emotional day for me is a blessing.
My thoughts are with the Elephant keepers and everyone who knew and loved Umoya.
I feel like someone punched me in the stomach. Poor Moya! Sad, shocked, and my tears flow as well. I can’t imagine how the keepers feel. I am so sorry.
Sending thoughts to keepers, her elephant family and all those who loved her. It is a very sad day.
This is so sad and there are questions running through my mind. I have not seen aggressive behavior on a fatal scale among this herd. Do coyotes ever enter the yards, and could have the adult elephants been protecting the young? This is just a question, but it seems that aggression by an elephant may not have been the cause. Hopefully all areas are filmed 24/7 and there will be accounting of what did happen. Headlines in the news indicating a fight may not be correct, and it seems that injury due to another cause could be possible and hopefully is being completely investigated. In any case, this is the saddest news, such beautiful elephants, and the loss of any one of them is tragic. Will anyone be monitoring the herd around the clock for the next year or more? Every death at any zoo is a loss to all of us, and Umoya’s two babies will be the silent sufferers in the days ahead. Such a terrible loss.
http://www.sdzsafaripark.org/video/elephant_cam.html
NOW:
is Emanti? I see very sad! than sadness!
I sense her sadness! It is very still and do nothing NOW 1:06 PM
does aggresion towards other elephants happen often? It is such a sad thing to have happen, there is no one to monitor them overnight?
We hope that you know the exact cause of death Umoya. I keep thinking that if it was a fight, another elephant would have to be injured and not according to the note I read
Just had a chance to read about this today — what a shock! I feel so sorry for the little ones, but I am sure that with the care of the rest of the herd along with special attention from the keepers, these little ones will grow and thrive. Warm regards and loving thoughts to all of you at Safari Park — how sad you all must be…
This is very sad news and I would like more information too,
does this kind of thing happen often, what caused it to happen?
How are Kami and Emanti doing?
Please accept and share my deepest condolences of sympathy and prayers for support. I just read about Moya’s passing in the SD UT this morning. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the SD Safari Park Elephant Keepers for all that they do for the entire herd. Especially for the little ones, who are the next generation of beautiful African Elephants. As each elephant is so special and wonderful to observe, I take heart in knowing that the herd was given the opportunity to honor and mourn Moya in their special way. God Bless Moya and her loving memory always.
I am so sad for both the elephant and human family in San Deigo. When Ruby (Phoenix Zoo) passed away years ago, I cried for days. As the news sprends at the Phoenix Zoo, there will be lots of tears. The Zoo posted your story on facebook. Thank you for letting us know, and as many others have asked, please keep us posted on what happened and how everyone is coping. My prayers are with all of you.
My deepest condolences to the keepers and staff of the Park. As much as Kami and Emanti have their other family members around them to comfort them, it is still a time of grieving and for elephants that takes time to overcome.
I have read many accounts of the “attack” and Moya’s injuries being cited as being caused by one of the others. Another said her injuries only appeared as scrapes, which makes me wonder if she had some internal problem and when she went down perhaps one of the other elllies attempted to assist her to her feet causing the scrapes.I hope the necropsy will give answers to all the questions surrounding her death.
I have observed on the cam, the other calves born around the same time as Emanti still nursing from their mothers. If he does need to nurse longer and because female elephants don’t always allow other calves besides their own to nurse, will the Park have to bottle feed him for a time?
Prayers and good thoughts for the future to all.
Such a terrible thing to happen at our park! I saw the report on the local news and still feel such sadness about Moya’s passing. My condolences are extended to everyone who took such good care of these wonderful creatures. The elephants also must be terribly sad, and hopefully, Kami and little Emanti will be okay and continue to thrive. Those who care for them on a daily basis — please give them extra special hugs from all of us. XOXOXOXO
Please let’s everyone put their differences aside and realize that if the elephants could speak for themselves they would rather be in this loving caring environment than being culled. Without knowing what happened yet we should not jump to any conclusions. We should have a memorial service for her and stop fighting. Moya would never want this. Please have some respect for the entire family, herd and friends as we mourn this sad day.Let’s spend our time, treasures and talent finding out how we can help or even expand the wonderful area they have. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park is awesome and we should all consider ourselves fortunate to have such a great place to come that does such a superb job in re-creating the wild. RISP UMOYA! Love to all the elephants!
I just heard the news on the local station. I am so sad and wish to send my prayers for the staff. Please keep us posted since I watch the live cam as often as I can – what a shame. I hope her young ones are ok
So sad to hear this news. When we visited in June, I noticed that Emanti shares a birthday with my own son. I cannot even imagine if something happened to me and he and his sister were left without their mother, especially at such a young age. My heart breaks for those babies.
RIP Umoya. Next time I come to the zoo, I’ll bring lots of tissues.
We’ll never forget you, Dear Moya!! You will live on in your children and our hearts!
I just learned of the death of this magnificent animal today when I went to the Park. They have Park Rangers keeping an eye on things as they do not yet know what occurred. I am saddened by the loss of her, and hope that her children and the rest of the herd will soon come to terms with the loss. Any loss is a sad thing. Both for the rest of the herd, and all the Keepers and other Staff that have come to know and love her. Maybe the Park can set up a Memorial to her and allow visitors to leave condolences? My prayers are with everyone.
This is absolutely terrible news!
I was absolutely stunned to read this. I’ve really gotten to know these elephants through the cam ever since I discovered it back in May. It seems like they all have gotten along so well.:( I really hope this was just an accident. I just can’t believe this! I know the elephant caretakers are deeply saddened!
My deepest condolences to all the keepers at the Safari Park on the death of beautiful Moya. In reading the blogs, there are many theories concerning how Moya died. I believe that it is possible that it was a tragic accident and she just fell and injured herself. We will know for certain when the necropsy is completed. Rest in Peace Moya.
Great news! Umngani has been caring for Kami and Emanti (Moya’s kids) all morning and seems to be enjoying her enlarged family (from 3 kids to 5 kids). It’s been fun watching Umngani’s latest and Emanti playing together especially while they were racing around in the yard this morning, just the 5 kids and Umngani.
Don, I enjoy reading all your ellie posts but I really appreciate this one. Thank you so much for sharing this comforting news.
Thats wonderful. It seems like a good decision to put those two with Umngani and her young ones. I like that Emanti is around two great mother-figures:Umngani and Khosi.
Don: Thanks for letting us know the update. You seem to know the elephants best. Keep us posted.
Thanks Don for the uplifting news. I was hoping that another elephant would adopt ” Kami and Emanti. It is wonderful to hear the Umngani has taken up the responsibility. What a relief!
Such good news! Thank you Don.
probably the baby doesn’t realize that Emanti is moody b/c of losing his mom. altho Emanti pushes away the baby, the baby still wants to play and tries to side mount Emanti. I find this amusing. maybe it is helpful for someone to interact w/ Emanti in a natural way (to elephants).
also it seems like Lungile is kept together with Umngani’s family and Emanti and Kami. Lungile to me appears a little complex and sensitive. it would be nice for her to become a little less bachelor-like and a little more maternal towards Emanti. but it probably takes time to grasp what her role could be.
My heart aches for all the people in the zoo who loved and dealt with beautiful Moya every day, my deepest condolences. I can only imagine what youare feeling, if I, who only knew her through the camera, couldn’t even sleep last night thinking about her. I am happy, however, that this morning I have gotten to see her family with Umngani and hers… they make a gorgeous bunch. Somebody mentioned fighting before? It’s understandable that people might react in different ways when mourning. Don’t anybody take it personally, please. I am also very anxious to hear what actually happened, but I do not want to believe it was aggression… I lean more towards some sort of accident. I count on the wonderful people from the zoo to keep us informed. Please update us often as to how Emanti and Phakamile are doing?
Is there a way to enlarge the cam viewing to full screen on my computer? Would love to have that.
Moderator’s note: Not that I know of, but you can enlarge the overall view of the page through your browser.
I use Windows 7 which has a magnifier and this will enlarge the picture and brings everything closer.
Thank you. I will try all these suggestions!
If you raise your zoom level to 150% or 200 % you get a larger picture especially if the cam operator zooms in for a close up
You will have to leave the Zoo website and go to camzone.com. That camera enlarges nicely the elephants plus the apes and polar bears in the sdz.
Thank you Patricia! camzone.com is doing just what I was looking for, and so easy! Great viewing!
It’s nice to see Umngani with Moya’s youngsters. Seems the two little ones don’t want to leave Umngani’s side. Hope her three youngsters don’t mind the additions to the family.
As sad as I am about Moya, the baby playing with Emanti and Kami brought a smile to my face. I loved how they were all huddled up together in the upper yard.
I have been watching the cam all day and at times Emanti does want to play with the youngest till Umngani or his siblings come along to break it up. I have also noticed that Kami and Emanti shy away at times from Umngani, now that their status in the herd has become undetermined iwth Moya’s passing.
As to Lungile, I think she want to be a good aunt/mother figure but having the lowest status within the herd, makes it difficult for her to fulfill that role. Perhaps more so with Kami and Emanti wanting to tag along with Umngani’s family, which is only natural with Khosi and Kami being the only girls, plus Emanti being used to playing with Luti and eMacembe
I think it may take some time to find the right mix for everyone to have complete harmony within the herd again.
I am so sad to hear that Moya has passed away this week! I just saw her not a month ago and she looked great! I’m very shocked! On the bright side she has gave us two wonderful healthy elephants Kami and Emanti that will bring great memories of her. We should all be thankful for them! I’m glad to hear the two elephants are doing alright without there mother thanks to Umngani and the others. I hope to see them all soon. Rest in peace Moya you will be missed by all but forgot by none. Thank you San Diego Zoo and Safari Park for making it possible for us to see all these beautiful creatures so close.
So sorry for your loss…what a shock..i thought there was harmony among the herd. i also hope the aunts will take care of the youngsters and the staff can find a cause and maybe prevent such incidents in the future.
Dear elephant care takers and staff,
I am very sad to hear that Umoya has passed away. She was a beautiful elephant lady. She will be missed greatly by everyone who knew her. Please know I am thinking of her and her two beautiful calves, Kami and Emanti during this difficult time.
RIP Beautiful Umoya
oops …. I posted in the panda blog and then saw this blog … sorry … and very, very sorry for the loss of this magnificent animal … (posted with a lump in my throat and heaviness of heart!)
I have a question about the calves status. What happens now that Moya is gone? She was second in the herd and as such my understanding is her children would share that status and have certain privelages that come with that, yes? So do they now have no status and/or they slip to the lowest of status?
I’m curious about that too Kathy…
I was very upset when I heard of Moyas death. I know if she wasn’t taken in by the the park she wouldn’t have had her two calves. Her life and legacy will live on through them. I give my condolences to the keepers. Some days my grandsons and I go early in the morning and watch how the herd and keepers interact. It’s really something to see. My kids make fun of me because I enjoy watching the herd on web cam. I will miss Moyas backwards walks. She was a special soul.
namaste, sweet moya.
joan
It’s always heartbreaking to hear such sad news when it involves children, human or animal. I would like to think that Umoya fell after being stricken with something and that her other herd mates tried unsuccessfully to help her. That would account for her injuries. My prayers to her keepers and the staff that made her short life the best it could be.
Can you say with certainty that no bull was involved (and that includes Moose)? When do you anticipate you will be able to provide the public with a better picture of what might of happened? I know the necropsy will take a while so we must be patient. I would like to know if she died as a result of being knocked over or from her wounds. I am sure the staff has narrowed the list down as to who could have done this. I know animals can hurt each other in zoos, but usually action is taken (animals separated, etc.) I am sure USDA/AZA will want to know what happened. An elephant killing another elephant is a pretty big deal whether in a zoo or in the wild. Please remember we have grown to love these elephants as much you (I see them more than I see some of my own family). I know the staff is taking all the necessary steps to make sure the herd is safe, but there are so many questions that need to be answered. This whole thing makes no sense to me. The females push and shove but never anything so aggressive as to kill. My main concern is if a bull was involved. That opens a whole can of worms in my opinion. Thanks.
I think I read in one of the news stories that Mabu was in the same yard as Umoya at the time. So if a bull was involved, it would have been Mabu. As much as I love Mabu, I am a bit concerned about him. He is so big and strong. Is it really natural for an adult bull to spend so much time with a herd?
I miss seeing Umoya and her perfect, leaf-shaped tail fur. I saw Macembe nursing the other day, and it makes me so sad for poor little Emanti.
I wonder if Umngani would let him nurse if he tried?
Loss is so hard. I lost my 20 1/2 old cat on Friday. We are blessed to have known Moya and watched her. Her legacy will live on. I’m sure we’ll find out more, but it really doesn’t matter how she died – it is how she lived! I’m sure the herd or the keepers will make sure the little guy gets all he needs to eat.
Mary Kay, your comment about celebrating Moya’s life is so appropriate. I have seen numerous articles from animal rights groups making innuendos about the size of the herd, Mabu throwing his weight around and the general care for the elephants. For goodness sake, this herd has thrived and grown because of the excellent care they receive. The Park is working hard to ensure the calves are cared for and Umigani has stepped up to help rear the babies. If they had not left Africa they may not have fared as well.
I have trust the Park and keepers are taking the appropriate steps to fully investigate this and will make the necessary changes should anything be discovered. We all are very sad about her passing but it may be discovered this was an accident or that Moya was felled by a medical issue that could not have been foreseen.
It is important that we celebrate her life, that quirky backwards walk and enjoy the legacy she left behind in Kami and Emanti. Between the aunts and the keepers I believe these two will continue to thrive too.
The two Bulls are obviously aware of each others presence. I wonder if being aware of the females mating with another bull could up the aggression.
On another note : I just read that Reid Park Zoo will be seperating their Asian and African Elephants that have been together fo 30 years. Carol the Asian will be sent to SD zoo. They will try to integate Shaba into the herd being sent from the Safari Park ( 2 females, calves and Bull). I find so much about this upsetting and unsettling.
Separating these two bonded females may make sense scientifically, but neither may recover from the experience. It is indeed heartbreaking to contemplate. I hope it doesn’t happen…
When to necropsy Umoya to know what caused his death. You are not informed and we all want to know!
A necropsy can take several weeks to complete. I think it’s obvious that the zoo has told us everything they know about the situation. Patience, please.
It is heartbreaking to find a beloved animal hurt or dead – my sincere condolescenes to all. Is it at all possible that Umoya’s injuries were incurred after she went down – were the other ellies trying to help her? Please let everyone know what the necropsy results are. RIP Umoya.
My heart breaks for this precious loss. To the staff, HUGE HUGS and my deepest condolences!!! This is truely a sad time for all including her precious little ones. Can you tell me if any of the other female Elephants have adopted her calves and what is their status now amungst the herd? So many questions are being asked but I am sure it’s hard for them to be answered. GOD BLESS you Umoya and RIP you beautiful animal and mother!
After watching these ellies on camera for 3 years, I just cannot believe that Moya’s death was due to aggression in this largely peaceful herd. Of course there has to be a thorough investigation but it’s not going to be an easy task, as the herd can’t just tell us what happened. I just personally haven’t seen a lot of aggressive or nasty shoving in this herd at all, at least on camera. Perhaps Moya WAS shoved and pushed (since it is very crowded in both yards these days) and she lost her balance and fell on a log or a spike (cemented in the rocks) or else when she was down a male tried to have his way with unfortunate results. It’s human nature to want to know what happened and too heartbreaking, I can only imagine the emotions of the poor keepers who found her. My sympathies to you all, but at least her babies are doing well under Umngani’s care. Please let us know what happened if you find out. Perhaps we could discover that a move to Arizona could be a beneficial move for some of the herd after all.
On this Thanksgiving eve I’d like to say Thank you to the Safari Park Staff. You all must be heartbroken over Moya. She was a beautiful mother and the loss to Paki and Emanti is to sad beyond words. They will grieve like any other caring, loving animal along with the rest of us.
I am so Thankful that they are here at the San Diego Safari Park and get the love and attention from the staff and the public who love them so much.
Bless you Moya for giving us 2 beautiful ellies and that we may take as good of care of them as you would have.
Rest in Peace Momma. Love to you all. Allie
This could be comparing apples and oranges but our farm animals go thru a depression about 10 days out from a loss like this one. An example would be when a couple of long term stable buddies are permanently seperated. (Remember Tara and Bella the dog in Tennessee when Bella had some hip problems? Tara was very affected during Bella’s recovery and would not leave the paddock). These keepers know what they are doing so the outcome should be solid. I agree with blogger Barlow and am grateful for the zoo’s transparency and communication.
So sorry to hear this sad news – my heart goes out to you all who care for these beautiful intelligent animals. Thank you for informing us and for your wonderful care you give the elephants.
I just found out about this today and it’s such a shock!
I wonder if the injuries that killed Umoya were caused by someone jumping the fence when no one was looking (technically speaking, if mule deer can jump in then so can humans including humans with terrible motives…). Even if you don’t have webcams up at night, do you have security cameras? If you don’t have security cameras, do you have anyone watching at night, just in case? If you didn’t, do you now?
All who worship elephants, we are awaiting the cause of death UMOYA, loved her, so we deserve an answer.
Todos los que adoramos a los elefantes, estamos esperando la causa de la muerte de UMOYA, La queríamos mucho, por eso merecemos una respuesta.
You will be missed, my dear Umoya. Thank you… for being you.
Tears are still running down my face so I can only imagine how the caring staff there must feel at this great loss. I was caught off guard by the well of sadness I felt when I heard this news. Shows how attached we become to these wonderful creatures. I hope there will be answers for you all there about what happened. I know Umoya will be greatly missed by all of us.
What is happening with Paki and Emanti? Are they being accepted and cared for by the others in the herd or are they being handled and cared for by the keepers?
We do worry about them especially since Emanti was so young when orphaned.
I watch the elephant cam regularly and Umngani and family seem to have acquired two new members, Kami and Emanti. Kami is almost always found with them but Emanti, being a boy, is quite often found playing with one or a group of other boys. When moving between fields, the keepers seem to keep Kami and Emanti together, but when Khosi, Ingadze, and baby U get to the other field, it’s not long before Kami and Emanti join them.
I think it is so amazing that Umngani seems to be fine with 2 more in her “family”. She seems to be an amazing mom. Thanks for the update.
What is the cage in the West yard for????????
San Diego Zoo Global responds: Transport crates have been placed in the elephant habitat at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to allow elephants to become acclimated to them. A group of elephants is expected to move to the Reid Park Zoo’s new elephant habitat sometime in 2012. Offering animals access to these crates is an important part of the long-term process of preparing for any move.
After the necropsy, what will they do with Umoya’s body?
San Diego Zoo Global responds: When any animal dies at one of our facilities, a necropsy (autopsy) is performed to determine the cause of death as well as to give us insight to any potential disease patterns that might help us improve animal care. The necropsy helps us better describe the disease process that might affect wild animals, which means that we may be able to help in controlling such diseases.
The bodies of most animals are subject to reductive cremation, which is a process that accelerates the natural degradation of the body as it would occur if it were to be buried in the ground. Zoos in general use a variety of methods to dispose of animals at their death, from burial to rendering to cremation. Reductive cremation is an environmentally friendly new tool being looked at by other zoos.
Could you tell me if any of the elephants that we see on the webcam are the ones that are moving to the Reid Park zoo? If so, which ones are we going to miss?
Moderator’s note: No decision has been made yet about which elephants will be moving to the Reid Park Zoo.
glad to see that the youngsters are being cared for by their aunt. I remember when the National Zoo in DC kept a cage in the hippo enclosure before transport. im sure that is a good approach for all animals awaiting transport. im sure you will miss any animal that is ?transferred? traded? to another zoo but know that they are safe and will bring joy to other zoo goers.
I read in yesterday’s LA Times that both Cookie and Cha Cha died at the Zoo last week. My heart is broken, and goes out to the elephant keepers at both the Zoo and Safari Park, since they all would have known and worked with these two. Cookie and Cha Cha were members of the Zoo/Park family for 30 and 40 years, and touched the lives of countless keepers, zoo personnel, members, visitors, and the other elephants that shared their home, particiularly Ranchipur and Mary. I would love to see an obituary for Cookie and Mary, and read about how they came to the Park, what their lives were like before coming to the Park, learn funny stories from their keepers. They gave us so much, for so long, and I will miss them both.