The SPCA and Weber Brothers Circus are pondering what to do with a retired elephant.

After a 28 year career in the circus, Jumbo the elephant is about to put her feet up, but the experts are not sure where. Her most recent role has been touring with the Loritz Circus, a subsidiary of Weber Brothers for the past 12 months.

Weber Bros says the 36-year-old African elephant has been a real crowd favourite.

"It's always been our intention to ensure she has the opportunity to enjoy the second half of her life at a less hectic pace and out of the public eye.

"Being on the road with the circus can be tiring for animals and their health and well-being is always our main priority. The care and transport of

an animal of this size is also a big undertaking for any organisation."

Weber Brothers has been on a break over winter and Jumbo has already been put into a temporary care facility to start her transition process into retirement.

The SPCA is helping with plans for her future, saying the elephant is very bright eyed and will be able to easily manage a change in environment.

It is asking for public donations to help pay for ongoing costs in looking after her while she is in temporary care.