Could these elephants be any happier? The young elephant calf, Chaba, now lives freely at Elephant Nature Park (ENP), enjoying the care and nursing of his mother, Bunma.
Lek Chailert, the founder of ENP, was contacted by an elephant camp owner who requested help in rescuing the mother and baby and bringing them to live under the park’s care.
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The camp owner, ill for nearly a year, could no longer care for his elephants.
Bunma, the mother elephant, is 16 years old. She gave birth to Chaba in May of this year. When rescued, Chaba was in poor condition, but the journey to ENP was uneventful, with Bunma only showing concern at the sound of passing cars. Now, they are home and no longer need to be chained.
ENP expressed gratitude to Noelle Weiss for assisting in their release, along with everyone who contributed to Bunma and Chaba’s daily care.
The mother and baby celebrated their first day at ENP on August 12, which coincides with Thai Mother’s Day and World Elephant Day.
Within just one day of arriving, Bunma had milk to nurse Chaba, thanks to the love, supplements, and delicious vegetables and fruits provided. Both are now more relaxed and discovering the beautiful life they could have at their forever home.
Elephant Nature Park, located in Mae Taeng District, about 60 kilometers north of Chiang Mai City, is an elephant sanctuary and rescue center co-founded in 1995 by Thai animal rights activist Sangduen “Lek” Chailert, who remains the park’s primary spokesperson.
The 101-hectare facility houses over 35 elephants, most rescued from the tourist and illegal logging industries.
This sanctuary was established to provide a haven for elephants who are no longer in service to humans.
Conservation efforts help keep these majestic creatures safe and happy. Visitors can see these efforts firsthand at the elephant rescue and rehabilitation center in Northern Thailand.
Elephant Nature Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chiang Mai. The reserve is also dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating dogs, cats, buffaloes, and various other animals. Those who wish to get close to the elephants are invited to learn how to feed and bathe them.
Lek Chailert’s work with elephants has earned her numerous awards, including being named one of six Women Heroes of Global Conservation by Hillary Clinton. Thanks to Lek’s efforts, Elephant Nature Park has truly transformed into a “heaven for elephants.”
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