Craig, Amboseli National Park’s most recognisable elephant and one of Africa’s largest remaining tuskers, has died at the age of 54.
Dr. Johan Marais – Big Life/Facebook
His passing marks the end of an era for the landscape he roamed and the people who followed his life so closely.
According to conservation organisation Big Life Foundation, Craig died of age related natural causes. In recent months, the bull elephant had been struggling with digestive issues linked to severely worn molars. This condition is common in elderly elephants, whose teeth eventually erode to the point where they can no longer properly chew food. When this happens, there is no medical intervention available and the animal’s decline is inevitable. While a necropsy is still pending, this is believed to be the cause of death.
As Craig’s condition worsened in recent days, Big Life’s field team remained with him until the end, ensuring he was not alone. In a statement released after his death, the organisation described Craig as both an icon and a gentle giant.
He was known for his calm temperament around people and was likely one of the most photographed elephants in Africa. Despite carrying tusks of extraordinary size, Craig lived peacefully alongside the communities that share space with Amboseli’s wildlife. In a time when elephants with large tusks have become increasingly rare due to poaching and trophy hunting, his survival into old age was remarkable.
Craig was also significant beyond his physical presence. He represented hope for elephant conservation in East Africa, particularly in a region where human wildlife coexistence is critical. His ability to move through community land without conflict made him a powerful symbol of what is possible when conservation and local livelihoods work together.
“Craig was a huge presence in Amboseli and will be sorely missed,” Big Life said. “But he lived a long life and died a natural death, and no creature, human or elephant, could ask for much more.”
Amboseli is renowned for its big tuskers, but each loss is deeply felt. Craig’s death is a reminder of both the fragility of these giants and the importance of sustained conservation efforts to protect them. While he may be gone, his legacy will continue through the work of the organisations and communities committed to safeguarding elephants for future generations.
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