Craig the beer-ambassador elephant dies aged 54

Craig, a majestic bull elephant renowned for his imposing tusks and gentle demeanor, has passed away at the venerable age of 54. The beloved pachyderm, a true icon of Kenya’s wildlife and a symbol of successful conservation efforts, died of natural causes on Saturday morning within the breathtaking expanse of Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya. His passing was confirmed by the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, a conservation organization dedicated to protecting these magnificent creatures.

"Craig had just turned 54 years old. He led a long life and no doubt fathered many calves," stated the Amboseli Trust for Elephants in a poignant farewell message, underscoring his significant contribution to the elephant population. Craig was not just an ordinary elephant; he was a living testament to the resilience of his species and a beacon of hope for conservationists worldwide. His exceptional longevity and peaceful existence are a direct result of the tireless efforts of numerous protectors and the supportive environment of Amboseli National Park, a sanctuary situated near the Tanzanian border.

Famed for his extraordinarily long and impressive tusks, which placed him among Africa’s largest male tuskers, Craig was a major draw for tourists visiting the park. These "super tuskers," characterized by tusks weighing over 45kg (100lb) each, are an increasingly rare sight in Africa, with fewer than a handful remaining today. Craig’s magnificent tusks, a hallmark of his lineage and health, made him a living monument to Africa’s rich natural heritage. His presence in Amboseli provided a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the grandeur of these ancient creatures up close, fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation.

In a unique and fitting tribute to his stature and popularity, Craig was named an ambassador for Tusker, a popular Kenyan lager brand, in 2021. The name "Tusker" itself is a colloquial term for adult male elephants with tusks, making the endorsement a natural and fitting association. This partnership not only brought attention to the elephant’s unique status but also highlighted the inextricable link between Kenyan culture, its wildlife, and its natural resources. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the challenges facing elephants and the need for their protection, leveraging Craig’s iconic status to advocate for conservation.

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) paid a heartfelt tribute to Craig, describing him as an "icon" of successful conservation. Their statement emphasized his role in demonstrating that with dedicated protection, these magnificent animals can thrive and live long, fulfilling lives. "Craig was one of the last remaining super tuskers in Africa – a rare class of bull elephants whose two tusks weigh over 45kg (100lb) each. Fewer than a handful remain today, making him a living monument to Africa’s natural heritage." The KWS further elaborated on Craig’s gentle nature, noting that he was "deeply loved for [his] remarkably calm nature," often "pausing patiently as visitors photographed and filmed him." This amiable disposition made him approachable and a favorite among rangers and tourists alike, further solidifying his beloved status.

The success of Craig’s life and the conservation efforts that protected him are intrinsically linked to Kenya’s thriving tourism sector. Last year alone, more than two million tourists flocked to Kenya, many with the primary goal of experiencing the country’s world-renowned wildlife. Amboseli National Park, with its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and abundant wildlife, including elephants like Craig, is a cornerstone of this tourism industry. The KWS acknowledged that Craig’s peaceful passing was "thanks to his many protectors," highlighting the crucial role of anti-poaching patrols, habitat preservation, and community engagement in safeguarding wildlife.

Kenya’s tourism sector is a vital component of the national economy, accounting for approximately 10% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to official figures. The presence of charismatic megafauna like Craig not only drives tourism revenue but also supports local communities through employment and the development of infrastructure. The loss of such a prominent figure is felt deeply, not just by conservationists and locals, but by the global community that has come to admire and support the preservation of Africa’s wildlife heritage.

Craig’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of ongoing conservation efforts. While he died of old age, many elephants, particularly those with valuable tusks, continue to fall victim to poaching. The continued existence of super tuskers like Craig is a testament to what can be achieved when dedicated conservationists, government agencies, and international partners work collaboratively. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to continue the fight for elephant survival, ensuring that these magnificent creatures remain a part of Africa’s landscape for centuries to come.

The Amboseli Trust for Elephants and the Kenya Wildlife Service will continue their vital work in Amboseli and beyond, striving to protect the remaining elephant populations and their habitats. The memory of Craig, the beer-ambassador elephant, will live on as a symbol of Kenya’s natural beauty, the resilience of its wildlife, and the enduring power of dedicated conservation. His life, a full 54 years, was a gift to Kenya and to the world, a testament to the profound impact one extraordinary animal can have on our collective consciousness and our commitment to protecting the natural world. The serene image of Craig, his massive tusks gleaming in the African sun, will forever be etched in the minds of those who had the privilege of witnessing his majestic presence. His passing marks the end of an era, but his life’s story will continue to resonate, fueling the passion for conservation and the protection of these gentle giants. The peaceful end to his long life, surrounded by the wild beauty he embodied, offers a measure of solace in the face of this profound loss.