The second African elephant born in the Valencian Community was a new milestone in the important role played by the park and the BIOPARC Foundation in the international conservation program for this emblematic endangered species, whose population has declined by 95% in the last century. The animal care team surprised the little birthday boy, his inseparable 2-year-old sister, Makena, and the entire herd with a moving commemoration, complete with a colorful and enormous cake. These activities, which encourage play and fun, represent an environmental enrichment within the framework of animal welfare protocols.

Today Friday a year ago that at BIOPARC Valencia the nerves about the imminent birth of the elephant Maja were turning into a enormous satisfaction with the arrival of Malik, the second African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana) Born in the animal conservation park and in the Valencian Community.

The joy was double because it also represents hope for the European Programme for the Conservation of Endangered Species (EEP) and the actions promoted by the BIOPARC Foundation that have as aim to ensure the survival of this species declared in danger of extinction by the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Special environmental enrichment to commemorate the anniversary of Malik the elephant.

The light rain this morning didn't present any impediment, on the contrary, since the elephants love it. So, from early in the morning, the staff in charge of their care were busy preparing what was shaping up to be a "real birthday party" complete with a cake, of course, the size of a real elephant. largest land animal that exists.

La showy decoration, gifts and other items had as objective to surprise the entire pack, especially the babies, 2-year-old Makena and her brother. Once again, the celebration was a success, as the pachyderms' amazement was evident, and they began playing and searching for their favorite foods. giant cake Made with pumpkins, carrots and lettuce at the base, and several layers of kale, oranges, tomatoes, and celery, it has been a delight and has allowed us to contemplate the combination of incredible skill of the trunks and immense strength of the pachyderms to choose their favorite "sweets."

Video: Malik the elephant turns 1 year old.

This year has been non-stop for Malik. From the very beginning, he was very active, has grown optimally to 340 kg He has now discovered and is now walking around the different areas of the elephant sanctuary, accompanied by his mother and the other five females: the palm grove, the baobab forest, and the lake. It's especially endearing to watch his interaction with his sister, and it's very important to see how he follows and observes the imposing Tooth, from whom he learns the natural behavior of a male of his species.

FOR the technical team It has been revealing his conduct in one of the most important and unknown works directed to the maintenance of the animal health, the so-called veterinary trainingUsing positive reinforcement techniques and entirely on a voluntary basis, the elephants facilitate the non-invasive treatment of certain animals (including blood draws). Maja is accustomed to these practices, and little Malik has begun to imitate her intuitively, which has enabled the specialized department to treat the typical scratches the elephants receive while running around.

The importance of raising awareness about elephant conservation.

The special activities organized on the occasion of these anniversaries allow us to delve into the animal welfare protocols Applying routine diversification techniques that provide environmental enrichment and foster their instincts. Institutions like BIOPARC make it a top priority not only to promote elephant preservation but also to raise awareness among society, including their characteristics and alarming threat situation.

Today, it is estimated that There are only 350.000 African elephants left on the planet., 95% of its population having become extinct in the last centuryFurthermore, they only inhabit 15% of their historical range, which spanned the entire African continent. They are currently found in only 24 countries and are considered extinct in Burundi and Mauritania.