Terra Natura Benidorm pioneers cooperative training techniques with its elephants

Terra Natura Benidorm has implemented cutting-edge cooperative training techniques with its Asian elephants, aiming to improve veterinary care while ensuring the animals remain calm and stress-free. These techniques, unprecedented in Spain, are part of the park’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare and preventive medicine.

During a specialized training session led by expert ethologist Ana Alejandra Arroyo, elephants participated in two key exercises: voluntarily offering a foot through a special opening for cleaning and inspection, and leaning against a protective bar to facilitate safe and precise blood extraction. These exercises use visual cues, verbal signals, and positive reinforcement—like pieces of fruit—allowing the animals to engage voluntarily at their own pace.

This modern approach to wildlife care not only reduces the stress of clinical procedures but also boosts the effectiveness of veterinary treatments. Terra Natura Benidorm has been developing this animal-centered philosophy for years, based on scientific knowledge, empathy, and respect.

In parallel, the park’s team of veterinarians and animal keepers is taking part in an advanced training program covering behavioral management and animal welfare. The sessions include species-specific protocols for animals like storks, gibbons, dholes, marmosets, rhinos, tigers, clouded leopards, and macaws.

With over 150 species, many of them endangered, Terra Natura Benidorm offers visitors an immersive zoo experience where hidden barriers and recreated ecosystems allow for a deep connection with nature. The park continues to champion professional development and ethical care as the foundation of its operations.