TANZANIA

Among so many interesting trips in our passport, the one we took to Tanzania, in Africa, is, without a doubt, the one that transported me to what I can call my true natural habitat. Isolated from the world, disconnected from the cyber world and surrounded by magnificent animals, it was the perfect equation for me. All of this combined with the immensity of the ochre-colored savannas, the calm and absolute silence of the day – only interrupted by the splendid fauna that passes by – give a welcoming sensation of pure tranquility.

During our visit, the highlight was visiting the sanctuary that welcomes elephants from all over the world, victims of mistreatment or illegal hunting for their ivory.

Although they are considered the largest animal in the world, they are remarkably subtle. Through the savannahs, their steps are soft and majestic, like a walking dance.

Total euphoria at having the privilege of interacting with such admirable creatures. Their trunks tickle us as they inspect us for treats and we are enveloped by them as if in an affectionate hug. When I offer them peanuts, my hand feels a special sensation in contact with that enormous, wet, warm tongue. They are all very friendly and curious. Further on, a group of them were having fun playing with their trunks, squirting water or getting covered in mud, all to the unmistakable sound they make.

As we walked around the property, I was delighted with the presence of these adorable creatures that accompanied us, while the keepers were ecstatic to discover that we were from the land of King Pelé. They asked my husband everything they could about football, and their joy in the conversation was clear.

Between one chat and another, we discovered that elephants are quite affectionate, sensitive and intelligent; they have the ability to demonstrate sadness, joy and feelings of grief through body language. Socialization is essential for well-being and health. For this reason, each herd has around one hundred elephants, always led by the oldest and most experienced females. The contrast is with the males, who when they reach puberty around the age of thirteen, leave and begin to lead a life of long periods of solitude.

Who hasn't heard the expression, Elephant Memory? It amazes me how they are able to store memories! In times of drought, matriarchs lead their herd for kilometers to regions where they know they will find water.

Today, they are facing extinction not only due to mistreatment, life in captivity such as in circuses and loss of habitat, but mainly due to predatory hunting in search of their ivory. With China as the largest consumer, this practice has led to shocking changes, where it can be seen that some of these animals have reached adulthood without developing tusks or have them, but 21% smaller. A sad setback in the evolution of the species.

Playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem, their drastic population decline has a disastrous impact on biodiversity. In an attempt to curb the effect of human intervention, WORLD ELEPHANT DAY was created on August 12th, with the aim of raising awareness about the conservation of species, creating a sense of responsibility, and mobilizing society to support the protection of herds.