Mia
Year of arrival: 2015
Age at the time of arrival: 42 years old
Sex: Female
Recognisable features: An even depigmentation down her trunk, on the edge of her ears and around her eyes
Health condition when rescued: Swollen limbs, cracked toenails, damaged foot pads, infected cuticles and severe abscesses
Facility: Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC)
Favourite food: Sugarcane
Closest to: Rhea
Favourite activities: Taking dust baths, rolling in the mud, playing with tyre enrichments
Background: Mia spent all of her life as a performing elephant in a circus before she was rescued by Wildlife SOS. Years of excessive work, abuse and neglect left this elephant physically frail and mentally distressed. Mia was introduced to dedicated veterinary treatment, regular pedicures, good food and plenty of love to help her recover from her brutal past. Today, she’s a happy, healthy elephant who loves to play with her best friend, Rhea. | READ MORE ABOUT MIA
MIA’S STORY
Mia was a circus elephant forced to carry out performances. She was beaten into submission and often left to starve, making her life miserable. Her plight was shared by Sita and Rhea, who were her companions at the circus and underwent pain and suffering as well.
In November 2015, Wildlife SOS managed to pull together all the paperwork required to bring the three to our rescue centre so that immediate medical attention could be given to them. When Mia arrived at the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre, veterinarians and caregivers dedicated their efforts towards her physical and mental well-being. Mia had sustained chronic foot injuries during her time at the circus, and therefore healing agents were used to provide her relief. We are glad to witness Mia experience comfort, peace, and love under our care.
While Sita is no more, Mia and Rhea remain close and spend most of their time together. We are glad to witness Mia experience comfort, peace, and love under our dedicated care.