An elephant sanctuary in Thailand turned deadly for a tourist recently, raising concerns about the safety and ethics of such facilities. Blanca Ojanguren García, a 22-year-old law student, was tragically killed by an elephant named Phang Somboon while bathing the animal at Koh Yao Elephant Care. The incident, which resulted in García’s death, has shed light on the treatment of elephants in sanctuaries and the risks involved in interacting with these wild animals.
Duncan McNair, CEO of Save the Asian Elephants, spoke out about the incident, cautioning tourists about the dangers of visiting elephant sanctuaries. He emphasized that many so-called sanctuaries are not truly ethical and prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals. McNair explained that elephants in captivity are often subjected to extreme stress and mistreatment, leading to unpredictable and sometimes dangerous behavior.
While the exact circumstances of García’s death are still unknown, McNair suggested that the elephant may have been reacting to the unnatural conditions it was kept in. He stressed that elephants, despite their gentle nature, are wild animals and can become aggressive when threatened or stressed. The mistreatment of elephants in captivity, from poaching to abusive training practices, can have deadly consequences for both the animals and humans.
McNair urged tourists to research and choose ethical elephant sanctuaries that prioritize the well-being of the animals. He highlighted the importance of promoting responsible and compassionate tourism practices to ensure the safety of both visitors and elephants. By supporting ethical sanctuaries and advocating for legislation to protect animals from abuse, organizations like Save the Asian Elephants are working to create a more sustainable and humane approach to elephant tourism.
In the wake of García’s tragic death, the conversation around elephant sanctuaries and wildlife tourism continues to evolve. It is essential for tourists to educate themselves about the ethical treatment of animals and choose responsible travel options that prioritize the welfare of wildlife. By supporting organizations that promote ethical practices and advocating for animal rights, individuals can contribute to a more compassionate and sustainable future for elephants and other endangered species.
