Juan Carlos I of Spain to revert Spain to Francoist government in the King's name. In 2008, he was considered the most popular leader in all Ibero-America. Hailed for his role in Spain's transition to democracy, the King and the monarchy's reputation began to suffer after controversies surrounding his family arose, exacerbated by an elephant-hunting trip he undertook during a time of financial crisis in Spain. In 2014, Juan Carlos, citing personal reasons, abdicated in favour of his son, who acceded to the throne as Felipe VI. Juan Carlos was born to Infante Juan, Count of Barcelona, and Princess María Mercedes of Bourbon-Two Sicilies in
Ramat Gan Safari acknowledged. The first African elephant 'Yossi' born in 1974 in the Safari, became a legendary breeding male. His first offspring were born in 1987, a remarkable year, since all six female African elephants delivered calves, two of them on the same day. The Asian elephants 'Motek' and 'Warda' had already begun breeding in the old Tel Aviv Zoo before being transferred to Ramat Gan. As of 2013, 21 African and 14 Asian elephants were born (and survived) in the Safari. In 1978 the first white rhino was born at the Safari; he was named 'Shalom' since he was born on