Florida’s Top Elephant Riding Locations
In Williston, Florida, a unique opportunity awaits for those looking to have a close encounter with elephants without having to leave the country. Two Tails Ranch, located just south of Gainesville, is the proud home of multiple Asian elephants under the care of ranch owner Patricia Zerbini. Zerbini utilizes the ranch as an educational platform to enlighten visitors about these majestic animals, offering them the chance to feed, photograph, and even ride the elephants during their visit.
To partake in this extraordinary 1 1/2 to 2-hour experience, interested individuals must visit the ranch’s website to make the necessary arrangements. Despite the exclusivity of the encounter, a quick glance at the ticketing page reveals that the investment required is considerably more affordable compared to other attractions in Central Florida. Admission prices stand at $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 3-9, while children under two years old are granted free entry. Additional costs for feeding the elephants, photo opportunities, and riding the elephants are priced at $5, $25, and $40 per person respectively.
Upon visiting Two Tails Ranch, visitors will immediately sense Zerbini’s deep affection for these gentle giants. Coming from a lineage that spans nine generations of exotic animal handlers, Zerbini’s affinity for elephants stands out amongst her family members who primarily focus on big cats. She explained, “In my family, we all work with a multitude of species and at some point, your characteristics click with a species better than others. That’s usually the species you are going to go with because everything you do with them comes naturally.”
Zerbini’s passion for elephants is palpable as she strives to foster a similar connection between these animals and the public. Describing the allure of Williston for Asian elephants due to its hot and humid climate, she emphasized the importance of educating individuals about these magnificent creatures. During an interview on Florida’s Fourth Estate, Zerbini shared insights about the elephants’ unique trunk anatomy and their dietary habits, shedding light on their daily consumption of 250 to 400 pounds of food.
For those intrigued to learn more about elephants, their dietary preferences, and the enriching experience awaiting at Two Tails Ranch, a comprehensive exploration is encouraged through Florida’s Fourth Estate. This podcast delves into the intricacies of elephant care and offers a glimpse into the dedication of individuals like Zerbini who devote their lives to the well-being of these remarkable animals. Whether through podcast downloads or video streams on News 6+, the opportunity to engage with these fascinating creatures is just a click away.
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