Tragedy Strikes as Thai Park Rangers Discover 5 More Elephants Dead, Death Toll Reaches 11

In a heartbreaking turn of events, park rangers in Thailand have discovered the bodies of five additional elephants, bringing the total death toll to 11. The elephants are believed to have perished while attempting to save a baby elephant that had fallen over a waterfall in Khao Yai National Park. The incident has left park officials and animal lovers devastated.

Park officials said all 11 elephants belonged to the same herd and were likely trying to save a 3-year-old calf when they died. Photo courtesy of EPA-EFE

The elephant deaths occurred near Haew Narok waterfall, aptly named Hell’s Abyss, in central Thailand. The first casualty was a 3-year-old calf found drowned on the first tier of the waterfall. Subsequently, park officials discovered five more elephants submerged below the waterfall, indicating a harrowing loss for the same herd.

5 con voi ngã chết khi cứu đồng loại ở thác tử thần - Ảnh 1.

5 con voi ngã chết khi cứu đồng loại ở thác tử thần - Ảnh 2.

5 con voi ngã chết khi cứu đồng loại ở thác tử thần - Ảnh 3.

Park officials suspect that the elephants were attempting to rescue the stranded baby elephant, displaying their remarkable social bonds and selfless nature. The forest-dwelling animals often come to the aid of distressed or vulnerable members within their group.

Using a drone for monitoring, park rangers made the heartbreaking discovery of five more elephant bodies downstream. These efforts are part of an ongoing mission to preserve the ecosystem and prevent the bodies from contaminating the water.

Kanchit Srinoppawan, the park’s director, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and shared the belief that the elephants died simultaneously while attempting to save the young calf. Their collective act of heroism highlights the strong sense of community and solidarity within elephant herds.

Rescuers are working diligently to safely remove the elephant carcasses using nets to prevent any further environmental contamination. This tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the need to protect and preserve wildlife habitats, ensuring the safety and well-being of these magnificent creatures.

The devastating loss of 11 elephants in the rescue attempt of a baby elephant at Khao Yai National Park has left a profound impact on both park officials and the public. It is a stark reminder of the remarkable empathy and selflessness displayed by these gentle giants. This tragedy emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard wildlife and their