Ringling Brothers circus elephants retire to central Florida

POLK COUNTY, Fla - Former circus elephants are now getting the royal treatment.  The Ringling Brothers elephants completed their move to central Florida Thursday and now they're getting a big homecoming bash. 

The 11 new arrivals took center stage Friday at their new home at the Ringling Brothers Center for Elephant Conservation in Polk County. 

The elephants received a big buffet with all of their favorite foods at Friday morning's event.

The elephants performed in their final circus last weekend in Rhode Island. "It's bitter in the sense that after 145 years elephants will no longer be part of our traveling circus shows. It's the end of an era," said assistant animal superintendent Ryan Henning. "It's sweet in the sense ensuring these guys will be around for many generations to come.''

Scientists will study the elephants' blood, which contains a gene that suppresses tumor growth. Researchers hope they can use their findings to create cancer treatments for humans.