I sat the dinosaurs down and explained the 365 Toys' theme of the week -- explained how African and Asian elephants are endangered because of a number of contributing factors -- one of the chief being the slaughter of the elephants for their ivory tusks. Since they didn't understand what ivory is, I brought them down from the top of the piano, where they have been hanging out, to get a closer view of the keys.
"It's an old piano," I explained, "almost 100 years old, and in the past the white keys often had a veneer of ivory. In fact, playing the piano is sometimes referred to as 'tickling the ivories'". I told them there are strict laws now regarding ivory and things made from it -- importing, exporting, or selling within the US. The complex laws are in place to try to stop the killing of elephants for their valuable tusks, but it still happens. Until people all around the world stop buying illegal ivory goods, the killing will continue.
This photo captures the moment the horrible reality hit their little dino brains. They had been having a good time on the top of the piano, blissfully unaware of what elephants were facing -- brought home by the knowledge that the white veneer on the piano keys was once part of a living elephant. Once the dinosaurs understood that, they wanted to do everything they could to save the elephants from extinction. Believe me, no one understands extinction better than dinosaurs.
I told them they could help -- could start by letting me post this picture. They wanted to title the picture "Never again!" but I thought "Save the Elephants" was more immediately understandable -- and anyway, is the theme the 365 Toys chose.
It's so sad. I just read another article where the last male White Rhino is being guarded 24/7 in Kenya on the reserve. White Rhino's existed for 50 million years and along with the male, there are only 4-5 females left. They, like elephants for tusks, are hunted for the horns. It is truly sad to see. Wonderful shot and story, Mary.
Bravo to the dinosaurs for listening and then sharing with all of us what they've learned! I know Ellie and her friends are "tickled pink" (instead of the ivory!). A great addition to our theme!
