Asian Elephants

Elephants are an important symbol of Thailand. They have helped to develop the nation through heavy labour and protect its people, carrying Thai warriors into battle. Many Thai people may not be aware that the Asian elephant population of Thailand is approaching crisis. There are very few elephants living wild in Thailand and since the logging ban in the 1980s the elephants of Thailand have been unemployed. These huge animals are very expensive to feed. Traditionally, there would be a lifelong relationship between mahoot (elephant trainer) and elephant. But now many elephnats are sold to inexperienced owners. Some elephants are taken into the cities to provide entertainment. Many are overworked in the service of elephant rides at tourist venues. Fewer elephants are being born and of those that do arrive, fewer are surviving. A female elephant should ideally take six years of maternity leave! But these days not many can afford that kind of investment. If the elephants can't breed successfully they are going to die out. It is estimated that within a decade there will no longer be elephants in Thailand. To learn more and enjoy an incredible elephant experience visit the Elephant Nature Park close to Pai in Chiang Mai district. You can book through Gem's Travel in the night market in Chiang Mai centre.