National Zoo's Male Elephant Kandula Departs for New Home

PHOTO: Kandula photo courtesy of National Zoo

____________

On Tuesday, the National Zoo’s Asian elephant Kandula departed for his new home at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, the zoo said on its Web site and Facebook page.

A team of keepers and veterinarians are traveling with Kandula, the zoo noted. En route, they will observe him via live video monitors and will stop frequently to care for his needs. The zoo said they will let elephant fans know when Kandula has safely arrived.

”Although it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, male elephants become increasingly independent as they mature,” the zoo said, in explaining the popular elephant’s departure. “At 14, it’s time for him to separate and be with females he’s not related to. This move supports his natural development and his genes will contribute to the genetic diversity within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Asian Elephant population.”

More about Kandula

Born: Nov. 25, 2001

Sex: Male

Weight: Approximately 7,400 pounds. He weighed 324 pounds when he was born.

Name: Kandula was named for the most famous elephant in Sri Lanka’s history. The original Kandula was a gift to an infant prince 2,150 years ago. The future king and his elephant grew up together. The elephant was known for his courage, strength and loyalty.

History at the Zoo: Kandula is Shanthi’s son and was born at the National Zoo.

Watch this video released this year by the Zoo about Kandula: