Kenyans are mourning the loss of Craig, a famed “super tusker” elephant whose life in the wild symbolized the country’s growing success in protecting its elephants from poaching. Craig, who lived in Amboseli National Park, passed away on Saturday at the age of 54, the Kenya Wildlife Service confirmed.
A Giant of Amboseli
Craig was renowned for his enormous, ground-sweeping tusks and calm, dignified presence. The Amboseli Trust for Elephants said he died of natural causes and expressed gratitude to everyone who helped him live out his life naturally. Local media described him as one of the last remaining super tuskers in Africa, a title reserved for bull elephants whose tusks weigh over 45 kilograms each and sweep the ground as they walk.
In Amboseli, a protected area near the Tanzania border, Craig became a favorite of tourists, often pausing patiently while visitors photographed and filmed him. His stature and gentle demeanor made him both a wildlife icon and a symbol of Kenya’s commitment to conservation.
Conservation and Collaboration
In 2021, Craig was adopted by East African Breweries through its Tusker beer brand, highlighting his prominence and the collaboration between private companies and conservation organizations. Kenya’s national parks, home to a wide variety of wildlife, continue to attract millions of visitors each year, and elephants like Craig play a key role in drawing tourists while promoting awareness about wildlife protection.
The country’s elephant population has seen a steady increase, from 36,280 in 2021 to 42,072 in 2025. In Mwea National Reserve, the elephant population grew so rapidly that around 100 elephants had to be relocated in 2024 to prevent ecological damage.
A Lasting Legacy
As Africa’s largest land animal, the African savanna elephant can weigh up to six tons, and Craig’s legacy extends through the calves he fathered. The Kenya Wildlife Service noted that his bloodline, combined with his gentle character, will continue to live on across generations, leaving an enduring mark on Amboseli and the conservation community.
