The wait is almost over for Monarto Safari Park, as Perth Zoo’s beloved Asian elephant, Putra Mas, begins his historic journey to South Australia.
“The precious cargo will make his way across the Nullarbor, bound for his forever home at Monarto Safari Park,” Perth Zoo said.
The move marks a major milestone for both zoos. His departure signifies the end of a mammoth chapter in Perth Zoo’s 127-year history and a proud moment for everyone involved.
Construction of Monarto’s vast elephant habitat has been nearing completion for weeks, with an additional barn built especially for Putra Mas.
His arrival will complete the founding herd, joining females Permai, Burma, Pak Boon and Tang Mo.
Behind the scenes, both teams have been preparing for months.
On Monday morning, animal carers took Putra Mas through his regular crate training.
Just like every other day leading up to the zoo-to-zoo relocation, the 35-year-old bull elephant walked into his crate calmly and had his seatbelts fastened while munching on pears and apples. Except this time, it was for real.
He’s now on the road, accompanied by an experienced convoy of Perth Zoo keepers and veterinarians who will remain with him throughout the cross-country journey and assist during his early days at Monarto.
“Putra Mas’ move follows the successful transport of female elephant Permai earlier this year,” Perth Zoo added.
The transport has been meticulously designed for comfort and safety. In his custom-built, insulated crate, Putra Mas has reverse cycle air-conditioning, plenty of snacks and water, and, importantly, a live camera so his carers can watch him for the entire trip.
Putra Mas and his crate weigh a total of 10 tonnes. The road trip covers around 2700 kilometres across the Nullarbor and is one of the largest transports ever undertaken for a bull elephant.
Once he arrives, he’ll settle into Monarto’s purpose-built barn for quarantine and rest before slowly meeting the rest of the herd. Keepers say introductions will take place at the elephants’ own pace, with sound, scent and visual contact happening gradually.
Putra Mas’s relocation is a historic step for elephant welfare in Australia. A golden prince from the west is now heading east to the wide open plains of Monarto, where his new life and a new era for South Australia begins.
When can visitors expect to catch their first glimpse of Putra Mas? That will depend entirely on how quickly he settles. Initially, he will be off habitat during quarantine and as he adjusts to his new environment.
Once he is comfortable exploring the habitat, visitors may be able to see him from the Zu-loop bus.
For more information or to book your tickets, please visit monartosafari.com.au
