In the heart of Thailand, where tradition, culture, and natural beauty converge, there exists a majestic white elephant whose life unfolds in a manner befitting royalty. We delve into the astonishing world of this 900kg behemoth, exploring the regal lifestyle, cultural significance, and the special place this magnificent creature holds in the hearts of the Thai people.
Long revered in Thai culture, the white elephant symbolizes grace, power, and divine connections. Historically, these magnificent creatures were considered sacred, often associated with the monarchy and believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. In modern times, the tradition of keeping white elephants endures, and one particular pachyderm stands out for its sheer size and regal bearing.
Whilst the first mention of ‘white elephant’ may bring visions of entirely albino elephants, the white elephant is in fact far from that. The elephant is of significant cultural value here in Thailand so it comes as no surprise that such a rare genetic fault is considered to be fit for royalty only, with legal ramifications if you’re lucky enough to find yourself with a baby white elephant. ‘White elephants’ are a form of albinism but the mutation seems to be more prevalent in Asian elephants than their African relatives.
Asian ‘white elephants’ appear to be more light brown or pink, compared to
the typical dark grey as seen, for example, in the elephants at Phang Nga Elephant Park.
In Thailand, there are critical tests that must be conducted by Royal appointed Governors and experts to determine whether an elephant has the correct physical and behavioural attributes of a ‘white elephant’. If the elephant is deemed to have appropriate attributes, it will then be ranked hierarchically based on seven criteria:
- The colour of the eyes must be white or pink
- The hard palate (the roof of the mouth) must be pink
- The toenails must be white
- The penis must be pink or white
- The tail hair must be white
- The body hair must be white
Being in love with “White Tusk” means more than just love of nature and wildlife; It also shows a spirit of unity and ѕoсіаɩ awareness in environmental protection. This elephant has become a living symbol that embodies resilience and determination to safeguard our planet.
In conclusion, the nearly 900kg “white tusk” elephant is captivating and commands immense respect from an entire community in Thailand. The аffeсtіoп and care directed at this elephant extends beyond the aesthetics of nature; They underline the importance of safeguarding the environment and preserving wіɩd ѕрeсіeѕ in an increasingly changing world.
