Friends of the Elephant Foundation and its network have called for an investigation into the care of the elephant Sidao Kaew, finding the facilities unsuitable, with an enclosure made only of hot concrete floors. They worry that the elephant’s welfare makes returning to the wild difficult.
On 18 April 2026, a complaint was made regarding the welfare of Sidao Kaew, a wild elephant relocated for behavioral adjustment under the Department of National Parks. The enclosure consists solely of concrete floors and pillars, creating a dry, hot environment. The water pond is unsuitable for elephants to enter, indicating that the care and welfare arrangements are inappropriate, amounting to mistreatment rather than problem-solving.
Currently, Friends of the Elephant Foundation and partner organizations, including the Thai Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TSPCA) and allies, have submitted a letter to the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment requesting assistance in inspecting the welfare care of the elephant Sidao Kaew.
Ms. Soraida Salwala, founder of Friends of the Elephant Foundation, said, “Due to numerous complaints about the inappropriate animal welfare conditions for Sidao Kaew, also known as Kaew Indy, who is under the care of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, allied organizations and animal lovers
have requested the minister’s assistance to investigate the facts of this matter to clarify the situation for society, and to expedite finding solutions for the welfare care of Sidao Kaew, as well as to help protect other animals from unwarranted cruelty and to ensure they receive appropriate welfare care.”
According to information, “Sidao Kaew” is a beloved elephant admired for intelligence and behavior familiar with the community. However, behind this charm lies a difficult reality shared by both humans and elephants amid conflicts between people and wild elephants in Sa Kaeo Province.
Over several years, Sidao Kaew has demonstrated intelligence and adaptability, especially foraging in communities located several kilometers from the forest. This behavior has led to at least seven relocations back to the deep forest. Yet, due to familiarity with humans and easily accessible food in communities, he repeatedly returns to villagers’ areas. His visits for food, property damage, and destruction of granaries have caused fear among locals and led to imitation behaviors in other wild elephants, posing dangers to both people and elephants.
The most recent relocation of Sidao Kaew occurred on 22 January 2026 to the Chong Klam Bon Wildlife Breeding Station in Sa Kaeo Province.
The primary goal at the center is to restore Sidao Kaew’s wild instincts based on scientific principles so he can genuinely live in the forest again. Recent reports indicate Sidao Kaew is adapting well to the breeding station, showing positive behaviors such as ear flapping, tail swaying, and lying down, which indicate feelings of safety. Additionally, he engages in natural behaviors like dust bathing and spraying dust on his body, typical of wild elephants. The ultimate objective is not lifelong captivity but to wait until he is ready for release into remote forest areas, ensuring public safety and sustainable welfare for wild elephants.