When visiting the Wrocław Zoo, it’s definitely worth stopping by the Elephant House to see the oldest elephants in Europe. Birma and Toto arrived at the zoo many years ago, and thanks to the dedicated care they’ve received, they have transformed over the years. Discover their surprising story.
Wrocław: Attractions for Kids and Adults. Meet the Oldest Indian Elephants in Europe
On August 12, 2024, we celebrated World Elephant Day. To mark the occasion, the Wrocław Zoo organized a special event titled "Elephants Without Secrets". Visitors to the Elephant House had the chance to get up close and personal with the elderly Indian elephants, Toto and Birma. These animals are the oldest in Europe, as they are over 60 years old. In human years, the elephants would be approaching 90. Moreover, they are the only two elephants in this enclosure.
Birma came to us from a circus base in Julinek in 1981, and Toto in 2007. They now live in the Elephant House, which they once shared with other elephants. Currently, they are the only residents of the elephant enclosure
- reports Zoo Wrocław on its official Facebook page.
Wrocław Zoo: The Elephants Had a Hard Past. Birma and Toto Found Their Voice Thanks to Good Care
The illness in the Wrocław elephants manifested in swaying, and they also had a significant problem making sounds. The traumatized animals were likely tortured, as seen from the deformed bones in their legs and the numerous scars on their bodies.
For years after arriving at the zoo, both elephants didn’t trumpet. Luckily, fate has been kind to them—under the caring supervision of our staff, both elephants regained their voice: for Toto, it’s trumpeting, and for Birma, it’s roaring
- reveal the zoo staff in Wrocław. As we can see, it’s incredibly important not to contribute to the suffering of animals, which endure the consequences of human actions for the rest of their lives. On its Facebook page, the zoo particularly emphasizes awareness during trips to India and African countries.
On Elephant Day, we remind you of the importance of conscious travel. Please avoid elephant rides - every animal that allows this has gone through painful training. The same applies to bathing with elephants, which may seem harmless but often involves hidden suffering for these majestic creatures. Let’s firmly say 'no' to such attractions and help raise awareness in others
- reads the post. It’s worth remembering this, and instead of seeking brief entertainment and a souvenir photo, we can contribute, even in a small way, to improving the lives of elephants.
