{"id":1869,"date":"2025-06-24T03:48:13","date_gmt":"2025-06-24T03:48:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/elephantforestphitsanulok.com\/conservation-efforts\/"},"modified":"2026-01-22T09:53:05","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T09:53:05","slug":"conservation-efforts","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/elephantforestphitsanulok.com\/th\/conservation-efforts\/","title":{"rendered":"Conservation Efforts"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Elephant<\/span> Forest Phitsanulok<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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About Us<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Conservation Efforts<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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Creating a Forever Home: For Elephants Who Can\u2019t Go Back to the Wild<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhen\u202fpeople\u202fhear\u202fthe\u202fword\u202f”elephant\u202fcamp”\u202for \u201celephant sanctuary\u201d they\u202fmight\u202fwonder\u202fwhy\u202fthese\u202flarge\u202fwild\u202fanimals\u202faren\u2019t\u202fliving\u202ffreely\u202fin\u202fthe\u202fforest.\nIsn\u2019t\u202fit\u202funnatural\u202fto\u202fkeep\u202fthem\u202fin\u202fhuman-made\u202fplaces?\u202fWouldn\u2019t\u202fthey\u202fbe\u202fhappier\u202fin\u202fthe\u202fwild?\u202fThe\u202fanswer\u202flies\u202fin\u202fThailand\u2019s\u202fhistory\u202fwith\u202fthe\u202flogging\u202findustry.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tDuring the reign of King Rama V, Thailand allowed foreign companies, such as the British Borneo Company, to operate logging concessions in Thai forests. Wild elephants were captured from the forests, trained, and used as the main workforce to transport logs out of the forest, as they are both strong and intelligent.\u00a0\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOver time, widespread logging caused serious deforestation. By 1989, forest area in Thailand had dropped to just 27.95% of the country\u2019s land. The Thai government then decided to stop all logging activities and canceled every logging concession. As a result, these captive elephants that had worked in the logging industry suddenly lost their jobs.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tReleasing these captive elephants back into the wild wasn\u2019t possible. Many of them had already become dependent on humans. Most importantly, the remaining forests were not enough to support them. At the same time, wild elephants were already struggling \u2013 many didn\u2019t have enough food and started entering farmland, where they were at risk of being injured or killed. Adding more captive elephants into these pressured habitats would only increase the human-elephant conflict.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTo provide care and a new purpose for captive elephants, many were brought into the tourism industry. They worked by giving rides and performing shows. Because elephants are intelligent and trainable, they were able to adapt to this new role. In fact, most captive elephants over the age of 40 today once worked in logging.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAt Elephant Forest Phitsanulok, we focus on giving these captive elephants a safe and peaceful life. We provide food, medical care, and a caring environment so they can live happily and comfortably for the rest of their lives.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThese captive elephants cannot return to the forest. This is their final home, and we are committed to giving them the best life possible.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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Forest Preservation Initiatives<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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A living forest for elephants, wildlife, and people
at Elephant Forest Phitsanulok, our forest is not just a place of beauty- it is a vital source of life.<\/p>

Covering 360 acres of native landscape, our sanctuary is home to tens of thousands of trees. These trees form a complex ecosystem that sustains soil, protects water cycles, and nurtures biodiversity\u2014everything from butterflies and birds to elephants and people.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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But our commitment goes deeper than just preserving trees. Here\u2019s how:\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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The Forest as a Natural Pharmacy\nand Dining Table for Elephants\u00a0<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tIn the wild, elephants walk an average of several kilometers a day to forage for food. A diverse forest like ours allows them to rediscover those instincts\u2014browsing bark, leaves, roots, and seasonal fruits as they roam.\u00a0\nExperts have identified dozens of wild herbs and medicinal plants growing naturally here\u2014many of which elephants instinctively seek when they feel unwell.\u00a0\u2028For example, an elephant with an upset stomach may chew on specific bark as\na natural remedy. This self-healing behavior is only possible in a forest rich in plant diversity.\u00a0\nHaving a forest filled with natural nutrients, minerals, and medicinal plants is a cornerstone in helping rescued elephants regain their health, instincts, and independence.\u00a0\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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\nA Forest That Feeds People Too\u00a0<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Our forest doesn\u2019t only support elephants. It also provides seasonal wild foods and herbs for our local staff and mahouts.
From edible ferns and mushrooms to traditional medicinal plants used to stop bleeding or soothe bee stings\u2014this forest is deeply connected to the way of life for the people who care for it. \u2028Preserving the forest is also about preserving wisdom, culture, and food security for our team and their families.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Thoughtful Tree Care<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWe avoid cutting trees unless absolutely necessary. When we must intervene, we do so with care\u2014trimming only to promote health or safety, and encouraging natural regeneration wherever possible.\u00a0\nWe see every tree as a guardian of the ecosystem, and we let the forest shape itself with time.\u00a0\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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Carbon Capture and Climate Action<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Though quiet, trees are powerful allies in the fight against climate change.
By protecting our forest, we help absorb carbon, reduce heat, and maintain ecological balance\u2014with every tree, one day at a time.
Our forest contributes meaningfully to a global movement toward sustainability.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Biodiversity in Every Root and Branch<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe rich biodiversity of Elephant Forest is no accident\u2014it is a result of careful protection and a commitment to native flora.\u00a0\nEvery tree, vine, and shrub plays a role in maintaining balance. The forest is alive with birdsong, butterflies, insects, and wild herbs\u2014forming a resilient web of life.\u00a0\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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Community Participation and Reforestation\u00a0<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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We work with local communities, volunteers, and students to plant and protect trees\u2014not for profit, but for restoration.\u00a0 Through seed banks, native saplings, and mindful reforestation, we continue to grow the forest together\u2014tree by tree.
Each tree we protect or plant is a promise\u2014to the land, to future generations, and to the elephants who call this forest home.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Sustainable Elephant Food Systems<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAt Elephant Forest Phitsanulok, we are surrounded by 360 acres of natural forest. The forest provides shade, wild herbs, and natural foraging opportunities\u2014but it\u2019s not enough.\nEach elephant eats around 200 to 300 kilograms of food per day. A forest of this size cannot fully meet that need, so we must find additional food sources.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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In the past, we relied on pineapple leaves and banana stalks from nearby farms, as well as seasonal fruits. However, these sources have become less reliable\u2014some farmers no longer grow pineapple, and there are growing concerns about chemical use.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we joined the ‘Build Back Better’ project
by World Animal Protection World Animal Protection (WAP), which helped us begin growing our own food on-site. With their support, we installed a solar-powered irrigation system and started planting napier grass and bananas.
This system now helps reduce our dependence on external crops.
We are continuing to expand our planting areas and improve food security for our elephants.
We are grateful to World Animal Protection (WAP) for their support and for helping us take an important step toward a more sustainable future.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPartner with World Animal Protection (WAP)\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Wildlife Habitat Protection Sanctuary for Deer, Wild Boar and Animals in Need<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAt Elephant Forest Phitsanulok, we care for more than just elephants. Over the years, people have brought us animals like deer and wild boars, asking for our help in giving them a safe place to live. These animals now live within fenced areas\u2014not for entertainment, but for protection.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOur forest is also home to many wild species that live freely. We strictly prohibit all forms of wildlife hunting on our land.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEven in this small forest, we\u2019ve observed surprising biodiversity: wild deer, jungle rabbits, flying squirrels, monitor lizards, civets, turtles, softshell turtles, snakes, geckos, frogs, fish, and over 50 species of birds. We also see many insects and butterflies that thrive in this natural environment.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Having a forest means having an ecosystem\u2014one where many different species can find food, shelter, and safety. This is becoming rare as natural spaces disappear. We hope that this forest will remain a safe refuge for wildlife: not just today, but for generations to come.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Community Involvement<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAt Elephant Forest Phitsanulok, we see our role not only as caretakers of elephants and forests\u2014but also as neighbors in the local community.\u00a0\nOver the years, we\u2019ve tried to take part in ways that feel meaningful. Some projects are small and simple, others ongoing. But the intention is always the same: to contribute where we can.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
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Here are some of the ways we\u2019ve been involved<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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