Rani and Savani: A new life in Munich's Hellabrunn Zoo!

Rani and Savani: A new life in Munich's Hellabrunn Zoo!

The elephant Rani and her daughter Savani have found a new home in Munich. After being released from Leipzig Zoo on May 20, 2025, the two now live in Hellabrunn Zoo. The decision to relocate Rani and Savani was made on the recommendation of the European Endangered Species Program (EEP), which coordinates the conservation and breeding of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus).

The situation in Leipzig became increasingly tense for Rani and Savani, especially dealing with the lead cow Kewa and the female elephant Astra caused difficulties for the elephant herd. Rani could not be permanently integrated into the existing herd structure, so the decision was made to donate her to the Hellabrunn Zoo. There, the nurses hope, Rani will build her own matriline with her daughter and experience happy times.

A new living environment

When they arrived in Munich, Rani and Savani were able to quietly immerse themselves in their new environment. Both elephants had time to explore their quarters in peace while trusted keepers accompanied them. “The acclimatization takes place in quiet stages and under close observation by the animal care team,” reports the team from Hellabrunn. Zoo director Rasem Baban emphasizes that careful acclimatization has the highest priority.

Rani and Savani are expected in their new herd by the bull Otto and the elephants Temi, Mangala and Gajendra. The bull Gajendra's interest in Rani is particularly interesting. The animal care team sees this dynamic as the possibility that Rani will one day become the grandmother of Savani's offspring. Until then, Rani will take care of her two children, Savani and her new step-siblings.

Documentary on television

Exciting for all elephant and animal lovers who want to follow the changes in the lives of Rani and Savani: The MDR documentary soap “Elephant, Tiger & Co” follows the two elephants and shows them getting used to the new herd. For example, in episode 1131, which aired on June 6, 2025, it was documented how bull Otto gets closer to the newly arrived females. Every Friday at 7:50 p.m., fans of the documentary soap can find out how life in the elephant group continues to develop.

The journey to Munich could be the beginning of a new adventure for Rani and Savani. Expectations are high and the keepers are excited to see how the two elephants will fit into their new home and what little miracles the future has in store for them.