Seneca Park Zoo has added a female African elephant to its herd.
Felix, 43, was transferred from the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore and arrived at the Rochester zoo Aug. 25, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Seneca Park Zoo officials announced Aug. 26.
Why Felix moved to Seneca Park Zoo
The Maryland Zoo is home to two male African elephants: 43-year-old Tuffy and Samson, who was born at the zoo in 2008.
When zoo officials decided to transition to a bachelor herd, they began looking for a new home for Felix. The zoo said it sought a facility with expertise in caring for geriatric elephants and determined Seneca Park Zoo was the best fit.
Felix was born in Zimbabwe and had lived at the Maryland Zoo for nearly 20 years.
“We chose Seneca Park Zoo because they have a great elephant program
that will continue Felix’s excellent care within a herd of similarly aged females that will provide many social opportunities for Felix," said Erin Cantwell Grimm, mammal curator at the Maryland Zoo.
Felix joins Seneca Park Zoo's 'Golden Girls'
Seneca Park Zoo is home to three other female African elephants, all considered geriatric and affectionately known as the "Golden Girls."
Genny C and Lilac are both about 48 years old, while Moki is 44.
The median life expectancy for a female African elephant in captivity is 39.4 years, according to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Studies have shown African elephants can live longer, sometimes by many years, in the wild.
“Felix has a great temperament and is easy to work with,” said Seneca Park Zoo veterinarian Dr. Chris McKinney, who traveled to Baltimore before the transfer to meet Felix and review her medical history.
“I was able to discuss her medical history with Maryland’s veterinary staff, and Felix is in good health overall,” McKinney said. “She does have a cataract in one eye and is blind on that side, but she has learned how to still monitor her surroundings.”
When can visitors see Felix?
Felix and the other elephants will be introduced gradually over the next several weeks, zoo officials said.
Visitors may be able to catch a glimpse of Felix as she settles into her new surroundings and begins getting acquainted with her new herd.
Reporter Marcia Greenwood primarily covers the grocery business and consumer-focused grocery news, as well as retail development, openings and closings. Send story tips to mgreenwo@rocheste.gannett.com. Follow her on X @MarciaGreenwood.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Seneca Park Zoo's 'Golden Girls' welcome a new member: Meet Felix the elephant
