Mae Mah

Beautiful Mae Mah in the forest

Despite her independence, Mae Mah maintains a wonderful balance of cooperation with the rangers, especially during health checks or when the herd moves near the Thai border. Her intelligence and adaptability shine through in these moments, qualities that have made her an essential figure within the released group.

Mae Mah is in excellent health, and her consistently high body condition score shows just how well she’s thriving in her protected forest home. Her strength reflects the high-quality habitat she enjoys and her impressive foraging skills, as well as a testament to the success of the release program in helping elephants return to a natural lifestyle.

Together with Mae Noy and Mae Boun Mi Ngay, Mae Mah forms a close and harmonious trio. The bond between the three females remains strong and enduring, even as the young male Dor Khoun Meuang has become increasingly solitary. Although he was once thought to be central to the group’s stability, the females have shown that their social bonds are resilient and self-sustaining.

They girls are often seen foraging, resting, and walking together - touching trunks, supporting one another, and moving in perfect coordination. This deep connection highlights the emotional intelligence of elephants and the strength of their social ties.

Mae Mah’s thriving leadership and the unity of her small herd are inspiring examples of the adaptability of Asian elephants. Their success reminds us how vital it is to give formerly captive elephants the chance to live freely, re-establish natural behaviours, and experience the social richness that life in the wild provides.

Your kindness and support allow Mae Mah to thrive as a true matriarch of her herd. Thank you for being an essential part of her story.