Australian Asian Elephant Population 2025

[marmolady]

The most recent update is certainly more encouraging. When I visited the other day, the two elephants had been interacting through the fence, and I watched Permai taking a brief venture into the enclosure.

I put a few photos of her in the gallery— I’ll admit to feeling a bit emotional seeing her stepping out. It’s all small steps… it’s huge what she’s adjusting to.

 

[Zoofan15]

The most recent update is certainly more encouraging. When I visited the other day, the two elephants had been interacting through the fence, and I watched Permai taking a brief venture into the enclosure.

I put a few photos of her in the gallery— I’ll admit to feeling a bit emotional seeing her stepping out. It’s all small steps… it’s huge what she’s adjusting to.

It’s been a huge adjustment for her. Considering she arrived in Australia as a three year old, she’d have very little memory (if any) of her life prior to Perth Zoo. Tricia was her security from early on and while she grieved for Teduh, who Perth lost in 2007, her grief for Tricia was far more intense. From there she made a mammoth journey to an open range zoo where she’s encountered a new elephant for the first time in 33 years!

It’s been interesting to hear Monarto’s comments about wanting Burma to establish as the matriarch. All along, I’ve predicted Pak Boon to be the biggest source of conflict if she’s met with any resistance in assuming this role; but it’s entirely possible she’ll accept Burma’s leadership, which presumably Monarto are anticipating.

 

[Jambo]

It’s been interesting to hear Monarto’s comments about wanting Burma to establish as the matriarch. All along, I’ve predicted Pak Boon to be the biggest source of conflict if she’s met with any resistance in assuming this role; but it’s entirely possible she’ll accept Burma’s leadership, which presumably Monarto are anticipating.

It's entirely possible given Pak Boon essentially served as the second in command behind Porntip all of those years. Although she is a 'dominant' female, she isn't necessarily a 'natural matriarch' personality wise which I think a lot of the keepers see in Burma.

 

[Zoofan15]

Monarto Safari Park - Elephant Update

From Monarto’s socials:

Permai arrived at Monarto Safari Park two months ago today, and we’re so proud of how far she’s come in such a small amount of time!

While she’s understandably still settling into her new home and adjusting to this big life change, there’s plenty of meaningful progress to celebrate as we reflect on Permai’s first few weeks after her mammoth move from Perth Zoo.

Keepers share that Permai is beginning to appreciate what’s on offer for her here at Monarto Safari Park – the varied spaces and open habitat she can explore, an abundance of mud that she loves to play in, big sand mounds to sleep in, watching local wildlife bounce by at night time, lovely foot soaks, the comfort of trusted keeper Jody from Perth Zoo plus some new keepers she’s beginning to work with, and always plenty of food!

And of course, there’s one other big addition to Permai’s world, with her and Burma spending quite a bit of time interacting and gradually building towards a higher level of companionship and trust. Our overnight cameras show the girls check in with one another after either one has spent some time away exploring their habitat, or after a sleep. These are all promising signs, but like with people, companionship and trust takes time to build, and consistency is key.

As mature elephants, what we hope to see for Permai and Burma is that they peacefully coexist, and eventually find security in one another in times of uncertainty. We’re confident that this will continue to evolve, but of course it will only happen on elephant time!

 

[Zoofan15]

Video of Werribee Elephants/Complex

Great video which starts with the three calves. Roi-Yim (the one roaring) is now looking noticeably larger than the female calves, as you’d expect to see given he’s a bull.

As the keeper explains, Roi-Yim is bellowing because Mali is out of sight. Considering he’s grown up in a 2ha complex and is now in a 21ha complex, it’s easy to see how that’s something he’s getting used to. As you’d expect, the matiachal herd support him - including Kulab, who comes running over.

Mali eventually follows, but continues walking - crossing the overpass at 2.00 minutes in.

 

[ZCChip]

Video of Werribee Elephants/Complex

Great video which starts with the three calves. Roi-Yim (the one roaring) is now looking noticeably larger than the female calves, as you’d expect to see given he’s a bull.

As the keeper explains, Roi-Yim is bellowing because Mali is out of sight. Considering he’s grown up in a 2ha complex and is now in a 21ha complex, it’s easy to see how that’s something he’s getting used to. As you’d expect, the matiachal herd support him - including Kulab, who comes running over.

Mali eventually follows, but continues walking - crossing the overpass at 2.00 minutes in.

That is really neat. Thanks for sharing. I am amazed on how much different the elephant exhibit is different from many others that I have seen (in person and virtually).

 

[Zoofan15]

That is really neat. Thanks for sharing. I am amazed on how much different the elephant exhibit is different from many others that I have seen (in person and virtually).

I’ve been really impressed with the complex and its great to see so much thought has been given to succession in the herd in that the starting population of nine elephants is only a fraction of what it’s capable of holding.

One of the best internal features of the barns is the moveable walls, which will allow separation of herd members as required - including facilitating the transition out of the matriarchal herd of the young bull Roi-Yim in the coming years.

It’ll also be interesting to see the finished product at Monarto with working continuing throughout this year. Like Werribee, they also have a fidget spinner shaped paddock. It’ll be interesting to see if this similarly serves as the focal point for activities and visitor viewing.

From Zoos SA:

 

[Jaiden]

A update of Permai Perth Zoo | Perth WA

 

[Zoofan15]

Trail Of The Elephants - A New Home For The Herd (Episode 1):

Episode 1 of Zoos Victoria’s elephant documentary is now available:

 

[Jambo]

Trail Of The Elephants - A New Home For The Herd (Episode 1):

Episode 1 of Zoos Victoria’s elephant documentary is now available:

Really enjoyed watching this.

It was really touching to see footage of Bong Su, and the keepers tributes of him. He really was a wonderful elephant and you can see the huge impact he had on a lot of the keepers.

It was also intriguing to hear the move was planned as far back as 2013. That same year Melbourne would welcome two calves and I'd imagine the issue of space was perhaps part of the reason was ultimately decided upon.

It was also no surprise to hear Dokkoon and Kulab (Dokkoon especially) were the most interested in Luk Chai following his arrival, with Mali and Num Oi a little slower in taking to him. Whilst Dokkoon is a bit of a wanderer, she's still very social when she wants to be and has supported Mek Kapah with the matriarchal role well over the years.

The Roi and Bong Su comparisons were also quite heartwarming. They showed two photos of both when they were younger and it's crazy how alike they look. Now that I think of it, they have very similar demeanors too - both being very quiet individuals. Roi has the characteristic long legs of Bong Su too.

Also very touching to see tribute on Man Jai. One of the few elephants that I feel like I knew well - I'll personally never forget the bond he had with Luk Chai. Two really wonderful elephants - it's so sad he's not here with us today and not able to experience the new complex at Werribee. I certainly believe he would've loved everything about it.

Overall, a really heartfelt episode; I'm especially glad that all the hard work the elephant team has put in over the years in regards to the elephants has finally paid off with this new complex at Werribee. It's a testament to their effort and strong desire to see change that the elephants are now enjoying a world class lifestyle and we're seeing the elephant program being a huge success thus far.

 

[Zoofan15]

Trail Of The Elephants - A New Home For The Herd (Episode 1):

Episode 1 of Zoos Victoria’s elephant documentary is now available:

Wow!

Zoos Victoria have historically produced some astounding documentaries and this did not disappoint. The integration of archival photographs with footage from the 2010’s through to now was seamless and gave such a comprehensive account of the herd.

I had the privilege of meeting Lucy Truelson and her team on my trip to Melbourne in late 2023 and was in awe of their knowledge of elephants and their passion for providing the herd with the best life possible. This same passion really came across in this video and serves as an example of what all zoo keepers should aspire to be.

Summary of key points:

The significance of elephants to Melbourne Zoo’s visitors was discussed. They were held at Melbourne Zoo continuously from 1883-2025 and were undoubtedly the zoo’s most iconic animals. It was mentioned that people had tattoos of Mali, had named their children after Mali etc. During that time, the exhibit standards have undergone monumental changes - from the opening of the state of the art Trail of the Elephant complex in 2003; to the opening of 21ha Werribee complex in 2025.

In the last two decades, the significance of bulls in a herd has gained recognition - particularly in their role as mentors. It was mentioned that Man Jai was allowed in with the cows to watch Luk Chai mating them to assist his own development (a new experience for him to observe given his father was not a natural breeder).

The Werribee complex commenced planning in 2013, with construction beginning in 2022. The zoo recognised the importance of avoiding long delays in breeding from cows and so in 2019, enquiries began to source a bull, with Luk Chai being put forward as an option. One of Luk Chai’s biggest advantages was he was a well socialised bull and indeed, quickly formed a rapport with the herd. It was interesting to hear how the bonding of Luk Chai and Man Jai was near instant; and that Dokoon took an interest in Luk Chai early on. Num-Oi and Mali were more hesitant.

Zoos Victoria’s herd is of course the only herd in Australia with three generations (Dokkoon, Mali and Aiyara) and the aim of the Werribee complex was to support a natural herd structure. Luk Chai has gone to Werribee to acts as a mentor for young bulls coming through (such as Roi-Yim) and will hopefully breed again (I’ve been previously advised the plan is for him to sire a second cohort of calves).

All three elephant cows conceived in three months, which the staff suspected through visual observation; but was confirmed via ultrasound. The keepers spoke how in contrast to previous births, the emphasis was put on the elephants this time to support each other. Dokkoon gave birth first and had a very rapid, smooth birth with Aiyara proving confident from the beginning. Mek Kepah and Mali were present for the birth. Mali gave birth (early) nine days later to Roi-Yim. It was a more challenging birth, but the first time mother demonstrated strong maternal instincts and within 10 minutes of the birth, was responding to him, showing strong maternal behaviour. Staff noted that from early on, Roi-Yim recognised Mali as his safety figure in the herd he would run to - something I observed as recently as this week during their temporary separation in the new complex. Num-Oi was the last to give birth and the keepers expressed their joy she had delivered a female calf. Num-Oi was “born to be a mum” and all going well, she will have the company of her daughter in the herd for life.

The loss of Man Jai in August 2023 was unexpected and devastating, though the keepers were prepared for an EEHV event and immediately activated a treatment plan. Sadly Man Jai died while receiving treatment three days in. The keepers celebrated the life of the curious, friendly adolescent by creating a tribute on one of his favourite dirt mounds, where his name was spelled out with flowers. They expressed their intentions to learn from the loss for the benefit of the captive population, including the current cohort of calves.

 

[Zorro]

Really enjoyed watching this.

It was really touching to see footage of Bong Su, and the keepers tributes of him. He really was a wonderful elephant and you can see the huge impact he had on a lot of the keepers.

It was also intriguing to hear the move was planned as far back as 2013. That same year Melbourne would welcome two calves and I'd imagine the issue of space was perhaps part of the reason was ultimately decided upon.

It was also no surprise to hear Dokkoon and Kulab (Dokkoon especially) were the most interested in Luk Chai following his arrival, with Mali and Num Oi a little slower in taking to him. Whilst Dokkoon is a bit of a wanderer, she's still very social when she wants to be and has supported Mek Kapah with the matriarchal role well over the years.

The Roi and Bong Su comparisons were also quite heartwarming. They showed two photos of both when they were younger and it's crazy how alike they look. Now that I think of it, they have very similar demeanors too - both being very quiet individuals. Roi has the characteristic long legs of Bong Su too.

Also very touching to see tribute on Man Jai. One of the few elephants that I feel like I knew well - I'll personally never forget the bond he had with Luk Chai. Two really wonderful elephants - it's so sad he's not here with us today and not able to experience the new complex at Werribee. I certainly believe he would've loved everything about it.

Overall, a really heartfelt episode; I'm especially glad that all the hard work the elephant team has put in over the years in regards to the elephants has finally paid off with this new complex at Werribee. It's a testament to their effort and strong desire to see change that the elephants are now enjoying a world class lifestyle and we're seeing the elephant program being a huge success thus far.

I take my hat off to the elephant team all the hard work they put into them really paid off very well. Now they are in this new world class elephant complex/habitat they have the chance to build this into a very special herd indeed which looks good into the future. My concern now is for the Dubbo herd I am hoping they don't fall to far behind, in the scope of things, It would concern me the lack of calfs in resent years and the lack of female calfs born to date, I wish them all the very best hopefully they can have more success!

 

[Zoofan15]

I take my hat off to the elephant team all the hard work they put into them really paid off very well. Now they are in this new world class elephant complex/habitat they have the chance to build this into a very special herd indeed which looks good into the future. My concern now is for the Dubbo herd I am hoping they don't fall to far behind, in the scope of things, It would concern me the lack of calfs in resent years and the lack of female calfs born to date, I wish them all the very best hopefully they can have more success!

Taronga Western Plains Zoo will welcome an elephant calf the end of this year. We’d all like to see more regular breeding but the fact remains capacity is the limiting factor at this point - with three bulls on site and the possibility Anjalee’s unborn calf will be the fourth.

With regards to succession in the herd, the last calf was female. The current plan is for her to conceive around the age of 12, delivering her first calf at 14 years. Presumably this is to align with Anjalee having a birth interval of seven years between her first and second calf. The matriarchal herd barn will hopefully be completed by then, allowing the births to be synchronised.

 

[Zorro]

I was wondering if any of the forum members have seen the two Dublin elephant bulls currently at the Sydney zoo or had even taken any pics of them. I believe their sire was quite a large bull himself so if one or both are used in the future as a sire it would be interesting to see what one might expect of them size and body type wise?

 

[Zoofan15]

I was wondering if any of the forum members have seen the two Dublin elephant bulls currently at the Sydney zoo or had even taken any pics of them. I believe their sire was quite a large bull himself so if one or both are used in the future as a sire it would be interesting to see what one might expect of them size and body type wise?

I visited them in November 2024 with @steveroberts and @Abbey and I took these photos:

Kavi:



Ashoka:



Considering their age (10 years), I thought their overall size and tusk development was impressive for their age. Their sire Upali was 5.2 tonnes at 24 years of age, though his tusks were nothing to write home about. His frame reminds me a little of Heman.

It wouldn’t surprise me to see one of Sydney Zoo’s bulls loaned to Werribee a decade from now to sire a cohort of calves.

 

[Zorro]

I visited them in November 2024 with @steveroberts and @Abbey and I took these photos:

Kavi:

View attachment 781098

Ashoka:

View attachment 781099

Considering their age (10 years), I thought their overall size and tusk development was impressive for their age. Their sire Upali was 5.2 tonnes at 24 years of age, though his tusks were nothing to write home about. His frame reminds me a little of Heman.

It wouldn’t surprise me to see one of Sydney Zoo’s bulls loaned to Werribee a decade from now to sire a cohort of calves.

I agree with you they are impressive for their age!
I had wondered if Sydney zoo could/would perhaps expand their elephant area so in effect could become a hub for future possible bull elephants that could be sent out to other zoos for breeding as needed!

 

[Zoofan15]

I agree with you they are impressive for their age!
I had wondered if Sydney zoo could/would perhaps expand their elephant area so in effect could become a hub for future possible bull elephants that could be sent out to other zoos for breeding as needed!

That’s certainly a possibility. I’m of the opinion that Sydney Zoo will continue to function as a bull hub as while there’s been pressures on city zoos to phase out elephants, the strongest argument for this has been the space constraints around housing a multigenerational herd. By accomodating a pair of bulls (or more if they choose to expand), Sydney Zoo can provide them with space and social opportunities (interactions with other bulls).

Sydney’s two exhibits are ideal for managing the maturing of two bulls (allowing separation if needed). It wouldn’t surprise me if Werribee’s next cohort was male heavy (2/3 calves male; or 3/3 calves male) to see Roi-Yim and one or two of them go to Sydney Zoo; and their bulls (by then heading for their prime) go to Werribee or Monarto for breeding.

 

[Jambo]

I visited them in November 2024 with @steveroberts and @Abbey and I took these photos:

Kavi:

View attachment 781098

Ashoka:

View attachment 781099

Considering their age (10 years), I thought their overall size and tusk development was impressive for their age. Their sire Upali was 5.2 tonnes at 24 years of age, though his tusks were nothing to write home about. His frame reminds me a little of Heman.

It wouldn’t surprise me to see one of Sydney Zoo’s bulls loaned to Werribee a decade from now to sire a cohort of calves.

Upali is quite a big bull - his father, Maxi also reached 5.6 tonnes and was also a very bulky bull (much like his son). Interestingly, Ashoka's maternal grandfather (Alexander) is also one of the biggest bulls ever in captivity - standing at over 3.3 meters tall and weighing in at over 6 tonnes.

 

[Zoofan15]

Upali is quite a big bull - his father, Maxi also reached 5.6 tonnes and was also a very bulky bull (much like his son). Interestingly, Ashoka's maternal grandfather (Alexander) is also one of the biggest bulls ever in captivity - standing at over 3.3 meters tall and weighing in at over 6 tonnes.

This photo shows Upali’s size quite well:


Source: Upali the Bull Elephant Has a New Home - Dublin Zoo

He’s a very bulky bull compared to more slender bulls we’ve had in the region such as Bong Su and Luk Chai. As previously mentioned, Upali reminds of Heman in that regard, minus Heman’s impressive tusk (acknowledging he lost the other falling into the dry moat).

 

[Jambo]

This photo shows Upali’s size quite well:

View attachment 781106
Source: Upali the Bull Elephant Has a New Home - Dublin Zoo

He’s a very bulky bull compared to more slender bulls we’ve had in the region such as Bong Su and Luk Chai. As previously mentioned, Upali reminds of Heman in that regard, minus Heman’s impressive tusk (acknowledging he lost the other falling into the dry moat).

I can see the comparison with Heman - from photos, both bulls certainly look like more 'compact' bulls. And you can see here, Upali is barely taller than the cows. Compare this to Bong Su, who always dwarfed the cows.

Here's an interesting photo I found of Bong Su and Mek Kapah presumably taken in the 90's;