A group of rehabilitated elephants in northern India is keeping warm, thanks to the bright idea of local craftspeople.
Earlier this year, near-freezing temperatures were threatening the elephants at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center in Mathura, India. Many of the elephants at the center—a sanctuary for abused and neglected wildlife—are elderly and recovering from injuries sustained by illegal trafficking or years in circuses. The animals’ frailty makes them particularly vulnerable to cold weather.
When word spread that the elephants were in need of help, nearby residents—many of whom are skilled in knitting and crocheting—sprang into action. Volunteers began weaving enormous sweaters to keep the elephants warm. The giant garments, which come in vivid colors and patterns, are large enough to cover the elephants’ huge backs, bellies, and legs.
Each sweater takes four weeks to make, but the knitters don’t plan to stop anytime soon. There are currently 20 elephants at the center, and the staff hopes to take in 50 more this year.
Says Geeta Seshamani, co-founder of Wildlife SOS: “We aim to provide [the animals] with a safe habitat where they can live like elephants.”