DNP to release ‘Si Daw Kaew’ elephant back into Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has announced plans to release ‘Si Daw Kaew’, a well-known male wild elephant, back into the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary during the upcoming rainy season, to ensure his smooth transition back to nature.

Sukee Boonsang, director of the Wildlife Conservation Office, revealed on April 27 that progress is being made in preparing the elephant for his full return to the wild. Si Daw Kaew is currently undergoing behavioral adjustment at the Chong Klam Bon Wildlife Breeding Centre.

The primary goal of the program is to encourage the elephant to rely on his natural instincts, reduce human dependency and to contribute to the long-term balance of the forest ecosystem.

According to Sukee, veterinarians and wildlife experts have been closely monitoring Si Daw Kaew’s progress. The rehabilitation process has focused on minimising human interaction, to decrease habituation, adjusting feeding patterns to mirror natural forest conditions and encouraging foraging behavior to ensure he can sustain himself in the deep forest.

The DNP has strategically chosen the rainy season for the release. During this period, the ecosystem is at its most fertile, with abundant water sources distributed throughout the sanctuary and a plentiful natural food supply.

These factors are considered crucial for increasing the elephant’s chances of survival and successful adaptation.

While the welfare of the elephant is a priority, the DNP is also emphasising the safety of local communities surrounding the sanctuary.

“Returning Si Daw Kaew to the forest is not just about changing his location; it is about restoring his right to live according to his instincts under careful management,” Sukee explained.

The DNP is currently coordinating with local networks and officials to establish a systematic monitoring and surveillance program following the release.

This measure is aimed at preventing human-elephant conflict and ensuring that the elephant remains within the designated protected zones, fostering a sustainable coexistence between wildlife and nearby residents.