The former Stardust Circus drawcard, reported to have caused the “blunt trauma” death of one of its workers, is now one of the ‘bingo ladies’ at the zoo where she is living while her future is decided.

“They remind us of old ladies enjoying each other’s company,” elephant unit supervisor Linda Gardiner told the Daily Liberal yesterday.

The elephant previously labelled a “killer” is now part of a firm set of friends completed by Gigi, also surrendered by the circus, and long-time zoo resident Burma.

In their 50s, the “girls” are making their mark in the hearts and minds of zoo workers and paying customers.

In the few weeks since she was deposited with Gigi at the zoo, Arna has left behind initial nervousness to be a “more relaxed” elephant. “She’s enjoying the routine,” Ms Gardiner said.

Each member of the elephant trio, able to sleep inside or out at night, are checked first thing of a morning to make sure they’re still “happy, healthy, bright and alert”.

Then, Ms Gardiner said, they’re separated and fed healthy and appetising mash.

“They each individually have a bath that begins with us hosing them with warm water,” she said.

Next comes “a little bit of training” that produces co-operative behaviour including “walking forward and stopping”.

“They seem to really enjoy the training,” the supervisor said.

“One-by-one” Arna, Gigi and Burma step onto the weight scales before heading into their paddock to lap up a constant supply of hay and grass, and play in a pool, sand pile and mud puddle.

Zoo workers “interact” with the elephants throughout the day from behind a barrier or fence, encouraging them to use their toys including tyres on ropes.

The supervisor insists they each are revealing distinct and special personalities as they settle into the zoo.

“Arna very quickly established herself as the matriarch, she’s very level-headed, very regal,” Ms Gardiner said. “Gigi is very mischievous and cheeky...and Burma’s come out of her shell since the others arrived.”

The Australasian Regional Association of Zoological and Aquaria will decide where to place Arna and Gigi in the long term.

kim.bartley@ruralpress.co m