Topeka Zoo honors movie star elephant with birthday celebration

TOPEKA (KSNT) - The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center is celebrating the birthday of one of its largest and oldest residents this month.

The Topeka Zoo posted to social media on Wednesday, Aug. 7 inviting locals to visit the zoo on Aug. 10 for resident elephant Cora's 66th birthday. The day will also mark World Elephant Day.

Cora arrived in Topeka in 2016 where she could enjoy her golden years in the company of local zookeepers and other animals. She previously appeared in the movie "Smokey and the Bandit II" as the elephant Charlotte.

"While she is not the oldest elephant, living to 66 is nothing to scoff at. After all, the median life expectancy is only around 48 years. Taking care of elephants is not easy work, but taking care of older elephants is even harder."

Topeka Zoo social media statement excerpt

The zoo said Cora has a few health problems which are common among older elephants but receives special care from staff and veterinarians. This includes making sure her hay is run through a hay chipper so she can eat it easily and the recent installation of a head rest in her enclosure.

To help celebrate her birthday, the zoo is holding a raffle for a lucky winner to give Cora a bath this year. People can buy tickets, ranging from $5 to $20, on the zoo's website. A drawing will be held at the end of August.

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