Rare Twin Elephant Birth Stuns Thailand's Ayutthaya Elephant Palace

An Asian elephant in Ayutthaya, Thailand, has given birth to a rare set of twins, sparking awe and celebration among caretakers and visitors alike.

Jun 14, 2024 - 08:14
Rare Twin Elephant Birth Stuns Thailand's Ayutthaya Elephant Palace

An extraordinary event unfolded at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal in central Thailand as a 36-year-old Asian elephant named Chamchuri gave birth to a set of twins, a rarity in the animal kingdom that left caretakers in awe.

The birth initially appeared routine when Chamchuri delivered a healthy male calf. However, moments later, to the surprise of onlooking caretakers, a second calf, a female, made a sudden appearance, intensifying the already remarkable event. The unexpected twin birth sent Chamchuri into a protective panic, necessitating swift action from the caretakers to ensure both calves' safety.

"We were all cheering because it’s a miracle," shared veterinarian Lardthongtare Meepan in an interview with the BBC. "Elephant twins are a phenomenon not everyone gets to witness."

Amid the chaos of the birth, one of the caretakers, 31-year-old Charin Somwang, sustained injuries while trying to protect the newborns from Chamchuri's protective instincts. "I was so happy, I couldn’t feel the pain," Charin recounted, highlighting the dedication of those involved in the elephants' care.

Elephants hold a revered status in Thailand, where they are not only symbols of national pride but also deeply respected for their cultural significance in Buddhism. The birth of these twins has captured the hearts of many, prompting the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace to showcase the newborns through live streams on social media and controlled visits for park visitors.

The female calf, slightly smaller than average at 55kg (121lb), requires assistance during feedings, standing on a stool to reach her mother. In contrast, her brother, weighing 60kg, is robust and developing well under the watchful eyes of caretakers.

Beyond the joyous occasion, the birth highlights ongoing efforts in elephant conservation. Once widely used in logging and entertainment industries, elephants in Thailand now face threats primarily from poaching and habitat loss. The country hosts over 3,000 elephants, mostly privately owned, with initiatives like those at Ayutthaya focusing on rescue, rehabilitation, and responsible tourism practices.

Conservationists caution against exploiting elephants for tourist entertainment, advocating instead for ethical interactions that respect the animals' welfare. Initiatives such as those at Ayutthaya offer visitors the opportunity to observe elephants in natural settings, fostering appreciation and support for conservation efforts.

As the newborn twins await their names, bestowed in accordance with Thai custom seven days after birth, visitors continue to flock to Ayutthaya, eager to witness the joyful sight of elephant calves rolling playfully under their mother's watchful eye. In the words of Charin Somwang, still recovering from his injuries but filled with happiness, "Elephant babies always bring joy.







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