Global Rumblings Podcast: Episode 55 - Transparency in Elephant Relocation

Release Date: April 29, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 55 of the Global Rumblings Podcast, host Nadia Mari engages in a candid and in-depth discussion with co-founders Kat and Scott Blais of the Global Sanctuary for Elephants (GSE). This episode delves into the complexities of relocating elephants to sanctuaries, highlighting the ethical, logistical, and emotional challenges involved. The conversation offers listeners a transparent look into the sanctuary's operations, emphasizing the importance of honesty and meticulous planning in elephant welfare.

The Challenge of Elephant Relocation

Scott Blais begins by addressing the growing concerns and questions from supporters about the sanctuary's relocation efforts. He explains that many rescues are prolonged, often spanning over a decade, which contrasts with the public perception of swift actions.

Scott (01:22): "People often don't understand why it takes so long when they feel like it's already been a couple of years."

He emphasizes the intricate nature of elephant rescues, which involve navigating complex relationships, bureaucratic hurdles, and political dynamics. The prolonged timeline often leads to frustration among supporters who anticipate quicker outcomes.

Chain Training and Transparency

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the use of chain training as a tool for safely relocating elephants. Scott addresses the criticisms surrounding this method, advocating for transparency in their practices.

Scott (07:03): "Sanctuaries in the US also use it. So it's not like places aren't doing exactly what we're doing."

He clarifies that the chains used are subtle and do not resemble the harsh, visible chains commonly associated with elephant captivity in places like Thailand. Instead, they serve as a practical tool to ensure the safety of both the elephants and the handlers during the relocation process.

Scott (08:13): "It's really subtle... the transparency we offer actually creates an opportunity to be ridiculed or judged because we're telling you everything."

Kat adds to the discussion, highlighting that the chains used are minimal and do not impose significant restrictions on the elephants, countering the stereotypical image of chained elephants.

Kat (08:38): "It's actually more of a bracelet connected to a subtle chain, not the gigantic chains you often see in images of elephants in captivity."

This openness about their methods sometimes leads to misunderstandings among supporters, but Scott defends the necessity and legality of their practices.

The Cases of Kenya and Pupi

Scott provides detailed updates on two elephants, Kenya and Pupi, currently undergoing the relocation process.

Kenya

Kenya is portrayed as an emotionally expressive and playful elephant. Scott notes the delicate balance required to gain her trust, as she is highly sensitive and can quickly lose trust with minor missteps.

Scott (03:03): "She has so much expression and much more vocal and playful and silly. It takes a lot to gain her trust."

Kenya's diet, which is not fully balanced, limits the efficacy of food-based reinforcement, making emotional reinforcement a critical component of her training.

Pupi

In contrast, Pupi is described as more reserved and reclusive, likely processing grief after the loss of another elephant named Cookie.

Scott (05:03): "She's losing her trust can take nothing. A little misstep, and she's like, I'm out of here and walking away."

Scott reflects on the differing emotional states of Kenya and Pupi, contemplating how their eventual integration at the sanctuary might benefit both elephants.

The Situation with Tammy

A significant portion of the conversation shifts to Tammy, a male elephant in Mendoza, Argentina, and the complexities surrounding his potential relocation.

Scott expresses deep affection for Tammy, emphasizing the challenges of securing his transfer due to stringent local restrictions and the elephant's health issues.

Scott (17:03): "Tammy is lovely, he's soft... he's got these tiny little ears that make him so charming."

Kat elaborates on the environmental and logistical obstacles preventing Tammy's relocation, including the necessity for extensive trust-building and the unsuitable conditions of his current enclosure.

Kat (18:23): "You need somebody to go down there for two or three months... Any elephant trainers out there who want to spend two or three months building a bond with Tammy."

The duo discusses the urgent need for specialized training environments and the impending winter conditions in Mendoza, which exacerbate Tammy's health concerns.

Scott (20:44): "The level of difficulty and complexity is really unimaginable."

Logistical and Bureaucratic Hurdles

Scott and Kat delve into the myriad of bureaucratic challenges that impede the swift relocation of elephants. These include obtaining necessary permits, redesigning training facilities, and securing funding for construction projects essential for the safe transfer of elephants like Tammy.

Scott (23:35): "We are very much trying to push that forward as much as we can."

Kat questions the prolonged timelines associated with constructing necessary facilities, prompting Scott to acknowledge the unpredictable nature of bureaucratic processes.

Scott (25:41): "We never know. Sometimes things happen right away, and sometimes we're still fighting to get things done four months later."

The conversation highlights the critical need for on-the-ground presence and support to expedite the relocation processes.

Future Steps and Call for Support

As the episode progresses towards its conclusion, Kat and Scott emphasize the importance of community support in overcoming the challenges faced by the sanctuary. They call for elephant trainers willing to commit time to build trust with elephants like Tammy and support for fundraising efforts necessary to finance essential infrastructure projects.

Scott (26:24): "Once she gets here, what we're probably going to need to do is to raise funds to pay for the construction in Mendoza."

Kat reinforces the urgency of these efforts, highlighting the health and well-being of Tammy as a priority.

Kat (31:08): "It's a firm statement... get your act together because time is of essence."

Conclusion

Episode 55 of Global Rumblings offers a transparent and heartfelt exploration of the challenges involved in elephant relocation. Through the honest dialogue between Nadia, Kat, and Scott, listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of sanctuary life, the ethical considerations of using training tools like chains, and the relentless dedication required to ensure the welfare of rescued elephants. The episode serves as both an informative discourse and a poignant call to action for the global community to support the noble mission of the Global Sanctuary for Elephants.

Notable Quotes:

• Scott (01:22): "People often don't understand why it takes so long when they feel like it's already been a couple of years."

• Scott (07:03): "Sanctuaries in the US also use it. So it's not like places aren't doing exactly what we're doing."

• Scott (15:38): "The, the... the evolution within the mindset of the team, you know, the evolution within the mindset of the politicians... is so much more dynamic."

• Kat (18:23): "Any elephant trainers out there who want to spend two or three months building a bond with Tammy the male Asian elephant, to bring him to sanctuary? Write to podcast@global elephants.org."

• Kat (31:08): "It's a firm statement... get your act together because time is of essence."

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