CFA News

HOPE, Maine (WABI) - An elephant that once called Maine home has died.

Rosie and another elephant, Opal, came to Hope in 2012 through the work of Jim Laurita. The veterinarian had worked with the elephants when they were in a circus.

Laurita created Hope Elephants, inviting schools and the public to visit the sanctuary in Midcoast, Maine.

Sadly, two years later, Laurita was killed and both elephants returned to Oklahoma.

The Endangered Ark Foundation says Rosie was the first official resident of the Endangered Ark Foundation, calling her a staff favorite for 31 years.

They note during the past few weeks, Rosie was showing signs of decline and increased pain levels. A decision was made Monday to put her down.



Rosie was 55 years old.

Her companion in Maine, Opal passed away in 2017.