Elephantastic

Introductions, captured by Four Paws International

November 30th, 2020

Have you heard the news? The world’s biggest traveler has arrived in Cambodia.

Kaavan, known as “the world’s loneliest elephant” was transported yesterday from a zoo in Pakistan to a wildlife sanctuary outside Siem Reap. After decades of neglect and eight years of loneliness following the death of his female companion in 2012, officials in Pakistan agreed to his release to a more suitable environment. Helping secure his release was… Cher — world-famous singer and actress, and co-founder of Free the Wild.

Yesterday, Kaavan flew first class on a chartered flight in a large metal crate after months of diet, exercise, rehabilitation and “crate training” with a personal veterinarian. Dr. Amir Khalil began his relationship with Kaavan by singing to him and has since developed a close and trusting bond — a bond that led Kaavan into his crate, onto the airplane and over to Cambodia without issue.

Today was Kaavan’s first full day in his new environment and already he’s making friends with his female neighbors on the other side of the fence.

The photo I’ve included above is taken from the internet — something I never, ever do without asking permission. But in this case, the photo has been shared worldwide by Four Paws International (part of the rescue) and I think it’s probably safe to say that whoever captured the moment must be quite happy to have shared it with a world in such desperate need of some good news.

If you’re interested in reading more, here’s the story from the AP or… just google him. Kaavan is now an internet celebrity.

Cheers to Kaavan, his perseverance, his travel savvy and his new life in beautiful Cambodia.

More tomorrow,
Kelly

Post of the Day: Adding a bit of light to the darkness as we get through the pandemic together. This series features travel photos from my archives, shared with you while staying close to home.