Elephants dying and continue at risk

I am absolutely heartbroken about the devastation in northern Thailand these past few weeks. Numerous lives have been lost, including during the latest flash flooding that has seen two confirmed elephant deaths and some 30 missing from a ‘sanctuary’ in Chiang Mai. I don’t know the whole reason for so many elephants needing rescue, but that is only in one of many shelters for protecting elephants in the country. Although, I do not claim to understand how tourists swimming with elephants aids in their recovery. In my opinion, donations without disturbance should be a priority.

What I do know is that humans have brought about these disasters that continue to impact not only our own species, but that of numerous others. My heart aches for the people of Thailand who have such a strong connection to elephants, and many of whom have not only lost their homes and loved ones, but the loss of any elephant (their national animal) must also be extraordinarily painful.

During my recent visit to Chiang Mai, I was struck with how present elephants are in Thai life. These majestic animals permeate every aspect of their art and culture. I include below a few of my photos of elephants captured in the past two weeks in Chiang Mai.

We all need to do better! If you can afford to donate to Thailand to help them recover, I hope you will do so.