At the Opel Zoo in Kronberg, Germany, an elderly elephant named Lilak, who is 55 years old, was found lying on the ground by zookeepers on Rosenmontag. Unable to rise by herself, her rescue required the assistance of the local fire brigade. Utilizing air cushions and hoses, the firefighters worked alongside the zoo staff to help Lilak get back on her feet, showcasing effective teamwork between the zoo and emergency services.

The following morning, after the dramatic rescue, zoo director Thomas Kauffels was anxious about Lilak's condition. He was the first to arrive at the elephant house and was relieved to find that Lilak was in good spirits, having greeted him at the gate and taken food as usual. This indicated that she had coped well with the stressful situation and recovery. The incident reflects the strong bond and care that is provided for the animals at the Opel Zoo.

This event highlights not only the operational challenges that older animals can face but also the community's role in animal welfare. The quick response from the fire brigade demonstrates the effective collaboration between local services and the zoo to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. As ambulatory need becomes a common concern in wildlife conservation, such collaborative efforts can serve as a model for similar cases in the future.