Elephant update: Ruby finds a good home in Northern California

No doubt, Ruby--with her fabled elephant's memory--has not forgotten that this is her first anniversary at PAWS sanctuary in San Andreas.

One year ago today, the Los Angeles Zoo's female African elephant, Ruby, left behind her solitary off-exhibit barn, and controversy over her fate, for retirement at the bucolic northern California sanctuary. From all reports, the move was a success.

"Ruby is the most delightful elephant," said Pat Derby, co-founder of PAWS. "And she's been a catalyst for harmony among the elephants. One of our really neurotic little elephants from San Francisco--Lulu--just fell in love with Ruby." Now, they ''stall" together.

Five female Africans--formerly from circuses, zoos, even private hands--enjoy the 75 rolling acres of shrubs and grasses. (Easy on the feet.) Ruby, above, so flipped for the verdant grass of February that she overindulged and ended up with a bout of colic. "She has now learned to eat grass in moderation," said Derby.

But an anniversary is no time for moderation.

Bob Barker, the TV game show host and Ruby's biggest benefactor (he donated $300,000 for her upkeep), is visiting. And there will be carrot cake--sugarless. "We try to limit their intake of sweets," said Derby. Try to catch Ruby on a sanctuary web cam. "She's like a tank," said Derby. "She's the widest elephant on screen."

-- Carla Hall

Photo courtesy of PAWS