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Elephants Run To Greeting A New Rescued Baby Elephant - ElephantNews
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Observe KhamLa’s family during a gentle rain when the weather is delightfully cool. KhamNgern, KhamLa, and Pookie know that joyful times have returned. While the rest of their family enjoys an abundance of food, these three have opted to frolic in the mud pit. What you witness isn't solely the elephants having fun; it’s a celebration of their freedom. They have the liberty to choose whether to eat, walk, or play in the mud. This is the lifestyle of the elephants at Elephant Nature Park. Learn More: saveelephant.org
Delight in observing Kaavan's journey at the Cambodia Wildlife Sanctuary, where he now roams freely. With each step, he savors the exploration of his vibrant surroundings. Our hearts are filled with joy as we witness him rediscover his true essence as an elephant once more. Learn More: saveelephant.org
KhunDej, once a wild elephant, was discovered by forestry officials caught in a poacher's snare, battling a severe leg infection. In 2014, he was rescued and brought to Elephant Nature Park, where he received prompt medical care. His remarkable recovery and current happiness underscore the invaluable and meaningful lives of elephants, urging us to treasure every moment they inhabit alongside us. Just listen to his cheerful trumpets! Learn More: saveelephant.org
Suparp, a gentle elephant, now basks in the tranquility of Elephant Nature Park. Once tied to a life of relentless labor, she has found a sanctuary where she can relax and live freely. Each day, Suparp explores the park, delighting in the camaraderie of other rescued elephants, especially her close friend, DokMai. In this haven, she embraces the simple joys of life and finally experiences the peace and comfort she has always deserved.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
In the heart of the rainy season, the grounds become a mucky haven for baby elephants after each rainfall. SaNgae, Muay Lek, and Chompu dive headfirst into the mud, their playful antics reminiscent of carefree children. Soon, Chana excitedly joins the fun, while Ploythong keeps a vigilant eye on them, gently ensuring they don't get too carried away with their muddy adventures.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Cool weather, gentle rain, and a fresh pile of sand—what could be more delightful? Whenever a new mound of sand appears, elephants eagerly gather to play. Chompu and Muay Lek, the playful duo, romp and revel in the sandy playground under a drizzly sky. It seems their fun knows no bounds. This joyous frolic is a quintessential part of their natural upbringing, allowing them to thrive and grow with each playful interaction.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Elephants, known for their remarkable intelligence and social nature, possess strong memories and the ability to recognize familiar voices. The Chana family often spends leisurely hours playing in the jungle across the river. Despite their mahout's repeated calls to return, they remain absorbed in their games for hours on end. Eventually, the mahout seeks Darrick's assistance. The moment Darrick arrives and calls out, the family responds promptly, especially Chana—the youngest and most astute elephant in the group—who leads them to reunite with their favorite person. The bond between Darrick and Chana's family at Elephant Nature Park is truly extraordinary.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
During the rainy season, the river's waters swell and rush with intensity. Sao Yai and Mae Lanna prepared to cross the river as they will do so daily. However, Mae Lanna, who is blind, hesitated, holding back at the riverbank. Noticing her friend's reluctance, Sao Yai, nearly at the other side, turned back. She swam to Mae Lanna, offering comfort and assurance, and together they crossed the turbulent waters. The deep love and bond between elephants are truly profound. They care for one another and show concern just as we do.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Elephants are naturally social creatures, living in matriarchal herds in the wild. At Elephant Nature Park, we strive to integrate rescued elephants into herds where they can thrive and heal from past traumas. This process can be challenging, but the joy of seeing a herd come together makes it all worthwhile.
Today, we witnessed a heartwarming moment as Chana, Kabu, Ploy Thong, Chom Pu, Muay Lek, Lek Lek, Thong Ae, and Fah Mai gathered to play together. It's a beautiful reminder of the power of connection and the healing environment we provide at the sanctuary.
Watch this incredible display of unity and playfulness among our beloved elephants!
Learn More: saveelephant.org
While our staff were driving to serve food to our elephants, they had to pass through a herd of our rescued cows. Many cows immediately started chasing the truck without relent. Eventually, the staff had to drop off some food to deter them from following. Ask and you shall receive.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
It’s not only the youngsters who love to play—moms do too!
Watch as BunMa, a loving elephant mother, inspires her babies LekLek, ChaBa, and Pyi Mai for some rambunctious fun. Their joyful energy is contagious!
BunMa’s transformation since her rescue, especially with her baby ChaBa, is truly heartwarming. It’s a beautiful reminder that love heals, and at Elephant Nature Park, every day brings new moments of happiness and freedom.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Play is not a common experience of the working elephant, but it is a natural expression of their being. In a life without chains and hooks and forced behaviors, an elephant will begin to play again, whether young or old.
TangMo is curious about a ball recently brought to her. She uses a wooden stick to hit and scratch the ball, creating rhythmic beats, and investigating the orb. At first, both TangMo and her companion, Rumroi, roar upon encountering the unfamiliar object. However, once they realize it is a toy, they enthusiastically explore it and learn how to have fun with it at Elephant Nature Park.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Another wonderful day in the river - high water and exuberant happiness !
The Chorus Girls together with Rumroi and Tangmo - what a loving and bonded friendship ! Disparate lives and hardships shared and brought together at a single point. Where else, other than at Elephant Nature Park !
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Raya once endured a life of hardship, working in elephant riding and logging, which left her with a severely injured right back leg. Her existence was fraught with challenges, a reality for many captive working elephants. However, after being rescued and brought to Elephant Nature Park, her life transformed beautifully. Now, Raya thrives in happiness and peace, spending her days bathing in the river, playing in the mud, and relishing the freedom she never knew. Raya's journey is a testament to how love and care can truly transform a life.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Get ready to laugh out loud with the top 10 cutest moments featuring baby elephants rescued at Elephant Nature Park! These playful little giants are full of energy, curiosity, and mischief, and their antics never fail to bring a smile to our faces.
From cheeky mud baths to playful chases, these baby elephants show us the lighter side of life at the sanctuary. Each moment is a reminder of the joy and freedom they've found after their rescue.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Elephants are intelligent animals, and baby elephants that stay with their mothers are particularly adept at learning. Curious about their surroundings, these young elephants exhibit strong emotional development. SaNgae, like all baby elephants, loves to explore nature freely. Often seen swimming in the river and exploring his environment, SaNgae thrives under the watchful eyes of his mother, Moh Jae, and his nanny, Sook Sai.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
BuaThong is so excited. What will happen when a big ball is placed in front of her? Elephants, with their intelligence, immediately recognize a toy when they see one, and BuaThong is no different. The story begins when BuaThong starts playing with the ball in her area, with her family following her. These adorable reactions occur when elephants experience happiness and freedom. Whenever these two things are present, natural joy is always expressed openly.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Mae Mai, a resilient elephant, struggling with pain, faced a challenging past. Her early years were spent at an elephant riding camp, followed by the grueling tasks at a logging camp. During a tragic accident while pulling logs, she suffered a terrible knee injury that forced her into retirement.
Upon her rescue and relocation to Elephant Nature Park, Mae Mai's struggle to walk was heart-wrenching. However, with the generosity of Gentle Giants and a prosthetic from Bionic Pets, her mobility saw a significant enhancement. A knee brace provided crucial support, easing her pain and helping her move more comfortably.
Now, after three years at the park, Mae Mai continues to thrive independently. Her improved walking ability is a testament to the extensive care and therapies she received. This video showcases her inspiring journey and the positive transformations she's experienced during these years.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Jumpaa endured a lifetime of chains, subjected to both harsh treatment in the logging industry and relentless toil in the trekking business. However, over the past two years, we have aided her and her companions in overcoming the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 crisis. Now, at Elephant Nature Park, she experiences the joy of living free from chains and abuse, relishing a peaceful life filled with plentiful food and newfound freedom, away from the hardships she once knew.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
These girls are called the Chorus Girls because of their expressive trumpeting, roars and bellows. Their names are HomNuan, AungKham, and RattanaKham, often seen with their other close friends, Tangmo and Rumroi. Their lively music brings joy to everyone.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Vana, a female elephant, endured repeated forced breeding. During one such ordeal, a bull attacked and broke her leg. The stress from her pregnancy and the injuries prevented the delivery of her calf, necessitating surgery to remove the stillborn baby. Unfortunately, her surgical wound did not heal properly, putting her life at risk.
Vana now resides at ENP, where she recently befriended DaoThong, another rescued elephant mourning the loss of her best friend, NoiNah. Vana and DaoThong have formed a close bond, enjoying activities like bathing, playing in the mud, and trumpeting together. This growing friendship symbolizes hope and healing for both elephants. After all Vana has endured, we hope this companionship will help her recover and find happiness once more.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Amidst the serene beauty of the rainy season, a beautiful family of rescued elephants joyfully plays in the mud. Rain is vital for elephants; it provides them with enjoyment, reduces the temperature, and raises their excitement all in one breath. Watch as FaaSai, FaaMai, ThongAe, Jenny, Lucky, and SriNuan revel in the heavy rain at Elephant Nature Park. In the final scene, Jenny naps on a mud pile while ThongAe stays close by, patiently waiting for her to wake up.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Janny, a female elephant, is early to nap. She lies down on a sand bed after finishing a full meal, just before entering her shelter. She covers herself with sand, creating a makeshift blanket. Watch hearth warming moment As she is falling asleep, her dear friend Thong Ae is always by her side, ensuring her safety.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Moh Go Nar and her baby girl, Jun, were rescued from Omkoi province in northern Thailand. The mother, once burdened by the logging industry and forced into breeding, endured a life of unimaginable pain. Baby Jun, Moh Go Nar's fourth offspring, will remain with her forever.
Today, they both experience freedom and care at Elephant Highlands project, where they receive proper food and attention. This marks the beginning of their journey to the freedom and happiness every elephant deserves.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
This afternoon, heavy clouds rolled in from beyond the mountains, promising relief from the scorching sun. Long before the first raindrop fell, the elephants sensed the shifting weather. They gathered by the riverbank—Faa Mai, Jenny, ThongAe, and SriNuan. Their excitement was palpable as they welcomed the relief imminent on the wind. With low rumbles and trumpets, their camaraderie and kinship echoed throughout the park in the misty air.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
When an elephant, or any animal, feels safe, its playful nature emerges. Any object can become a source of amusement, even a tractor tire. Despite DokGeau's size, he retains a childlike playfulness, delighting in pushing the tire along in front of him. This simple, endless activity brings him joy. The enjoyment of life for animals at Elephant Nature Park is a profoundly healing experience. Learn More: saveelephant.org
HomNuan, Aungkham, and Rattanakham are having a wonderful time in the river which is swollen with heavy rain. They call for others to join them. Tangmo and Rumroi rush to the scene, and partake in this festival of friends.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Today, a heavy rainstorm drenched the land, prompting most animals to seek shelter. But not Wan Mai, the spirited baby elephant, and her playful family. Instead of hiding, they embraced the rain, delighting in its refreshing cascade. Wan Mai, ever the playful one, brought along her cherished big ball, splashing joyfully in the pool. This beautiful family scene, a testament to their carefree spirit, captures how critical it is for an elephant, whether young or old, to be able to exhibit natural behaviors in the tourist industry, in the company of those whom they love.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
PloyThong, an elephant who was blinded, worked as diligently as any other elephant in the logging and trekking industries despite her condition. In 2018, she was rescued from a riding camp in Pattaya, Thailand.
At Elephant Nature Park, PloyThong experienced various challenges and formed potential friendships. Over time, she developed a profound bond with Chana and Kabu, becoming the senior nanny of a growing family. She dotes on Chana, providing her with constant, unwavering support.
As of 2024, PloyThong is in excellent health, giving and receiving love within her family. Her dedication to caring for the young ones she has embraced is truly exemplary. Learn More: saveelephant.org
During the rainy season, grasses and trees grow abundantly, enticing our elephants to cross the river and explore the jungle. You can often see our Pyi Mai and Chaba families on these journeys. While the adults will typically focus on eating, the young ones delight in rolling in the wet mud, exploring the jungle, and playing together in the river. This is their natural expression, free from harm and without a chain at Elephant Nature Park - let them be elephants ! Learn More: saveelephant.org
KhamLa’s family has a beautiful place to spend their day in lush grass fields and close to a fast flowing river. On their way home today they met up with Lek, and, together in homage, they all gathered round to rumble kindnesses to one another. They know and are grateful to the one who gave them this new life.
Every evening, the Khamla herd makes their way back to the main sanctuary where they stay together overnight. It's a beautiful sight to witness as they gracefully come down the hill and then wander in harmony along the river.
Tonight, as they were making their way back, they smelled our founder Lek Chailert and immediately enveloped her into the herd. They greeted Lek like seeing one of their best friends, touching her and chattering away.
After catching up, Lek leads the herd back to Elephant Nature Park, where tasty snacks await before they head to their night shelters.
Learn more: saveelephant.org
LekLek, Pyi Mai, and Chaba often play together. Today, while they were having fun in the river, they found a jackfruit floating by in the water. The playful trio soon competed for it, each trying to get a piece, but eventually shared it happily amongst themselves. They splashed around with childlike abandon until the thunder overhead signaled them to return to their mothers and nannies.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Doa Thong has stayed solitary since the passing of her friend NoiNah despite efforts to introduce her to other rescued elephants at her sanctuary. She clearly needed time to grieve the loss and wasn't ready for companionship. Over the last few days, VaNa, who has also been solitary since her rescue to Elephant Nature Park, decided to introduce herself to Doa Thong. We were delighted to see these advances were welcomed.
Today, watch how they are already bonded, moving together, and communicating with excitement as the rain falls. They became friends just a few days ago. Their bond is deep already. During a heavy thunderstorm, these two shared their concerns, united in emotion, running and trumpeting about until their cause for concern was alleviated by calmer reasoning. Learn More: saveelephant.org
Baby boy Sa Ngae found one of our rescued buffalo roaming in his area and immediately wanted to play! Watch his playful antics as he tries to check out the buffalo and make a new playmate. Despite the buffalo focusing on grazing, Sa Ngae tries many different ways to engage in play at Elephant Nature Park. Learn More: saveelephant.org
Malee, the younger elephant in this clip, was once chained under a bridge with her companions during the Covid-19 crisis, having previously been involved in elephant riding activities. For the past two years, they have been cared for by the Save Elephant Foundation. They adjusted swiftly to their new life, free from chains and hooks, enjoying the peaceful life at Elephant Nature Park with no work, just freedom and abundant food. Malee delights in mud baths and swimming in the river with her friends. Learn more: saveelephant.org
After playing in the river every day, Namthip walks over to the mud pool. While she's playing in the mud, she often sings. However, today it seems there are other elephants nearby who are interested in her calls, and they walk over to find Namthip. This is an important moment; friendships between Namthip and her friends are growing stronger every day, and this might be the beginning of a larger family in the future at Elephant Nature Park. Learn More: saveelephant.org
This is the first time Tiktok and Mae Kheaw have encountered a large ball. They were quite surprised and curious about what it was and what it could do. We will see them learning about something they have never experienced before. Elephants are intelligent animals, and when they discovered that the ball could roll harmlessly, they figured out how to play with it for fun and with such delight !
Learn More: saveelephant.org
How beautiful are these images of a playful family joyfully climbing up a mound and sliding down during heavy rain. Among them are Chompu, MuayLek, Sa - Ngae, and his nanny, SookSai. There's nothing more special than their playful antics during rainy days at Elephant Nature Park. Learn more: saveelephant.org
Watch this hilarious moment captured by a mahout as his dog, Ahh-Da, decides to steal a sunhat, much to everyone's delight!
Ahh-Da, the rescue dog, brings joy and mischief to the elephant caretakers at Elephant Nature Park. He's not only a wonderful companion but also a playful playmate to baby elephants Pyi Mai and ChaBa.
At Elephant Nature Park, you'll encounter not only our rescued elephant herd but also other rescued animals living harmoniously together.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Our herd is always thrilled to receive a fresh delivery of sand, which they can use as their own personal playground.
In this heartwarming video, witness the baby elephants and their families eagerly rushing to the newly delivered sand pile, eager to be the first ones to play.
The sheer joy and excitement it brings to the herd is truly heartening to see!
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Happy 15th Birthday to our handsome boy, Chang Yim! Celebrating his special day with a beautifully crafted birthday cake. We love you, Chang Yim. Happy Birthday!. Chang Yim is the bull elephant who born free at Elephant Nature Park on 12 July 2009. Learn More: saveelephant.org
Children are always at the heart of an elephant family. Let's take a look at the freedom enjoyed by the young ones in the family of Chaba and Pyi Mai.
When it's time to go home, many elephants will walk back steadily without stopping. However, this isn't the case for every family or friendship group, especially those with young, curious children. These families allow their children time to explore, even if it's only briefly. We can see the whole family walking together, following Chaba and Pyi Mai.
These are precious moments for their families.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Moh Go Nar, a 36-year-old elephant, has given birth to her fourth calf. Her first and second calves, both males, were sold, while her third succumbed to EEHV, a deadly virus that can kill baby elephants within three days.
Her latest calf, Jun, is not yet a year old and is anxious about everything new. Driven by maternal instinct, Moh Go Nar keeps Jun close at all times, not wanting to lose another baby.
Throughout their journey, Moh Go Nar stayed very close to Jun, calming her down. Due to a landslide, they were unable to reach their destination that day and spent the night in a temporary shelter at Elephant Nature Park.
The following day, they were brought to Elephant Highlands, a Save Elephant Foundation project about 1 hour away from Elephant Nature Park, where they can stay together forever.
Learn more: saveelephant.org
And so, the rainy season returns once again, washing away the heat and smoke. The air is fresh and cool in the morning and so humid each afternoon. The new soil we bring to the elephants transforms into mud with the rain. Dry soil becomes a playful medium for the elephants—soft, slippery, and fun !
In this clip, Chana's family revels in the mud as the rain pours down. It begins with three family members enjoying themselves, soon joined by the rest.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Witness the generosity of both mahout and elephants as the family enjoys an elephant cake and fruit just brought to them. Nearby, two white dogs, keen on the rice in the elephant's cake, couldn't resist some extra food. They eagerly ran over, standing attentively to express their desire to partake. Without hesitation, the elephant handler shared the food with the dogs. As they received the food, both the dogs and the elephants ate together in harmony, the dogs developing an appetite for melon as well.
However, this warm and seemingly ordinary scene also brings to mind the many animals that do not receive such love and understanding from humans. Outside our project, numerous animals suffer harm from people simply due to their hunger.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
♥️Sa Ngae is a playful boy of 3 years. The world is on fire with so many things to fascinate and compel engagement, even a flock of birds who landed near his family. It seems that the excitement and curiosity sparked many thoughts in the little elephant's mind. As he walked towards the birds, they all flew away but not far. Enough was the enticement to a new game at Elephant Nature Park♥️
Learn More: saveelephant.org
As closeness and intimacy deepen, the bond between MalaiThong and NamThip reflects a profound trust and love. The sight of them playing in the mud pool, with MalaiThong closing her eyes and NamThip standing faithfully nearby, beautifully captures their comfort and connection at Elephant Nature Park.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Do you think fun or tranquility holds more value? The answer often changes at different stages of life.
Today at Elephant Nature Park, the elephant KhamSan offers a perspective from that of a blind and solitary adult. As the rainy season enhances the atmosphere in our park, the elephants gradually begin to play in the water. Young elephants joyfully splash around, reflecting their playful nature. In contrast, KhamSan chooses to lie quietly in the water, peaceful and content.
While we can't fully understand her thoughts, we believe that tranquility, freedom, and the absence of forced labor ultimately bring happiness to all the animals in our care.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Every day, we deliver fruit to all the elephants. They recognize the sound of the truck like a Pavlovian bell. Some elephants get so excited that it's hard to contain their enthusiasm and anticipation. Take Lek Lek, for example. This young elephant often creates a challenge by chasing the truck, even when the food isn't for her. She finds great joy in pursuing the fruit truck, and her eyes sparkle with a child's determination to win the prize. In this video, you’ll witness her adorable persistence and charm at Elephant Nature Park.
Learn More: saveelephant.org
Elephants have very sensitive senses and excellent instincts to protect their families. Today, while baby elephant Pyi Mai was playing in the mud, the sound of gunfire echoed from the forest. It must have been from the villagers‘ guns. The gunfire caused the mother elephant and the nanny elephant, who were standing nearby, to rush to protect the baby elephant. Seem Pyi Mai react 1 second before human heard the sound of the gun fire. Elephants are the most incredible animals at Elephant Nature Park. Learn More: saveelephant.org