Baby Wan Mai

Wan Mai, whose name means “New Day”, was born on 2 May 2020 at an elephant trekking camp in Chiang Mai. She and her mother, Mae Mai, lived in pitifully grim conditions. Mae Mai was confined to a tiny concrete pen, on chains, with little space to care for her newborn baby.

Upon learning of their plight, Save Elephant Foundation successfully negotiated their rescue on the understanding that a safer, more dignified life would be provided at our sanctuary. On 7 June 2020, at just five weeks old, Wan Mai and Mae Mai were transported by truck to the park to begin a new life — one where they would come to know love and kindness.

On arrival, many of the older resident elephants eagerly approached Wan Mai and Mae Mai, each hoping to befriend the mother and become a nanny to her baby girl. Eventually, Mae Mai warmly welcomed our gentle giant, Sri Nuan, into their family. For several years, Sri Nuan took on the role of Wan Mai’s nanny, sharing the caregiving duties with Mae Mai.

More recently, the arrival of Meeboon and Bai Teoy has brought new friendships into Wan Mai’s life. Despite being blind in both eyes, Meeboon has become a devoted nanny, while Bai Teoy, Wan Mai’s best friend, acts as her protective big sister. Now thriving in her sanctuary home, Wan Mai’s mischievous yet sweet spirit shines brightly. Surrounded by the love of her nurturing herd, she enjoys a carefree, joyful life, and the dignity she so richly deserves.