Global Rumblings Podcast: Episode 43 - "Two Trunks, One Journey (Pocha & Guille Part III)"

Introduction

In Episode 43 of the Global Rumblings podcast, Nadia Mari engages in a heartfelt and in-depth conversation with Kat and Scott Blais, co-founders of the Global Sanctuary for Elephants (GSE). The episode, titled "Two Trunks, One Journey (Pocha & Guille Part III)," delves into the complexities and emotional journey of relocating two elephants, Pocha and Guille, from their existing sanctuary in Argentina to the GSE’s Elephant Sanctuary in Brazil. Released on September 24, 2024, this episode provides listeners with an intimate look into the logistical, emotional, and ethical considerations involved in elephant relocation.

Relocation Permits and Initial Challenges

The episode opens with Nadia inquiring about the status of export permits necessary for the relocation. Kat reflects on the tumultuous period following the issuance of new permits, noting:

“We couldn’t get to Argentina… multiple canceled flights because of COVID restrictions” ([01:51] Kat).

The Blais family faced significant hurdles due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including canceled flights and financial strains from purchasing multiple flights to ensure the elephants' safe transport. This segment underscores the unpredictability and logistical challenges that can arise during such large-scale animal relocations.

Crate Configuration and Behavioral Dynamics

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the configuration of the crates used for transporting Pocha and Guille. Initially, the crates were set up side by side, but this arrangement proved problematic. Kat explains the behavioral issues that emerged:

“Giza would just start walking forward quickly. And her mom had to then walk backwards quickly before she got pushed out” ([03:38] Kat).

This behavior highlighted the deep-seated behavioral patterns and hierarchy between the two elephants, complicating the relocation process. To address this, Kat and Scott modified the crates into a single corridor with two compartments, allowing one elephant to enter after the other. This adjustment aimed to mitigate aggression and ensure a smoother loading process.

Loading Process and Coordination

The loading day was filled with tension and meticulous coordination. Kat recounts the careful strategy employed to close the crates without causing undue stress to the elephants:

“We started making some noise and trying to set things up… sliding a temporary bar behind them” ([05:06] Kat).

Despite these precautions, the team had to navigate the elephants' natural instincts and ensure that neither Pocha nor Guille felt threatened during the process. The successful loading was marked by calm behavior from both elephants, despite initial concerns:

“Gija immediately started to push in front of her a little bit, but it was very subtle” ([09:03] Kat).

Journey Logistics and Unexpected Obstacles

The journey from Argentina to Brazil spanned approximately 3,400 kilometers (2,100 miles) over five to six days. Kat and Scott discuss the various logistical challenges encountered, including:

1. Fuel Shortage: As they approached the Argentine border, the team faced a significant fuel shortage. Kat narrates a serendipitous encounter:

   “A lovely… woman showed up with her bicycle, with her basket full of goodies and fresh coffee… she let us refuel… and did not accept payment” ([16:13] Kat).

   This act of kindness was a pivotal moment, showcasing the community’s support and generosity towards the sanctuary’s mission.

2. Border Crossing: The border crossing between Argentina and Brazil required extensive cleaning of the crates to remove all traces of Argentine origin, including hay and waste. The team had to endure a cold, rainy night waiting for the crossing to open, only to be aided unexpectedly by local residents.

Elephant Behavior During Transit

A critical aspect of the episode focuses on the elephants' behavior throughout the journey. Kat shares observations about Pocha and Guille adapting to their new environment inside the crates:

“They never really saw the horizon until we popped open the doors… seeing the world so completely different” ([25:12] Kat).

Scott compares the experience to taking a young child on a plane, highlighting the acceptable level of stress the elephants undergo:

“It would be similar to like the first time you take a really young child on a plane… it's an acceptable level of stress and what's on the other end makes it worth it” ([26:40] Scott).

Despite initial signs of discomfort, both Pocha and Guille acclimated well over the course of the journey, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

Human Interactions and Community Support

Throughout the relocation, the Blais family emphasized transparency and collaboration with local communities. Kat shares a memorable interaction at a gas station where locals eagerly participated in providing resources for the elephants:

“People were more excited about elephants eating the fruit trees than they are to see the elephant” ([23:29] Kat).

These interactions not only facilitated the relocation process but also fostered a sense of community involvement and support for elephant welfare.

Conclusion and Reflections

As the episode wraps up, Kat and Scott reflect on the emotional and physical toll of the relocation, underscoring the dedication required to ensure the well-being of the elephants. Kat highlights the beauty of witnessing the elephants' first interactions with their new environment:

“Here's this highly intelligent animals that get to see all these firsts… it's got to be intriguing and interesting” ([25:12] Kat).

Scott adds a comparative analogy to emphasize the balance between stress and reward:

“There's a level of stress that I'm assuming they go through not knowing but you know, it's an acceptable level of stress and what's on the other end makes it worth it” ([26:40] Scott).

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “We couldn't get to Argentina… multiple canceled flights because of COVID restrictions” ([01:51] Kat).
• “Giza would just start walking forward quickly. And her mom had to then walk backwards quickly before she got pushed out” ([03:38] Kat).
• “We started making some noise and trying to set things up… sliding a temporary bar behind them” ([05:06] Kat).
• “Gija immediately started to push in front of her a little bit, but it was very subtle” ([09:03] Kat).
• “A lovely… woman showed up with her bicycle, with her basket full of goodies and fresh coffee… she let us refuel… and did not accept payment” ([16:13] Kat).
• “They never really saw the horizon until we popped open the doors… seeing the world so completely different” ([25:12] Kat).
• “It would be similar to like the first time you take a really young child on a plane… it's an acceptable level of stress and what's on the other end makes it worth it” ([26:40] Scott).

Final Thoughts

Episode 43 of Global Rumblings offers a comprehensive and engaging narrative of the challenges and triumphs involved in relocating two beloved elephants, Pocha and Guille. Through candid discussions and personal anecdotes, Kat and Scott provide valuable insights into sanctuary operations, elephant behavior, and the profound impact of community support. This episode not only highlights the logistical intricacies of animal relocation but also celebrates the resilience and spirit of both the elephants and the dedicated team behind their care.

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