As the rains begin to grace the Mekong region, June brings transformation across the park — in the landscape, in our team’s daily work, and in the lives of the animals and people we care for. Here’s a look at what’s been happening
Magic After Dark:
Enchanted Evenings at the Night Fence
Our night cameras have revealed a hidden side of the sanctuary’s magic—capturing serene and sometimes surprising scenes. After dusk, our female elephants roam freely and peacefully within the safety of the night fence. But they’re not alone—our cameras recently caught unexpected visitors such as the barking deer quietly sharing the night space.
These moments remind us that the sanctuary is more than a safe space for elephants—it’s part of a living, breathing ecosystem that never truly sleeps.
Children’s Day
Planting Seeds of Awareness
To celebrate Children’s Day, we opened our gates to the children of Pakbeng for a joyful and meaningful visit. In partnership with APEEL, who support both our elephant rescue work and local community initiatives, we hosted a special day focused on conservation and education.
These visits are more than just fun—they’re a chance for local students to learn about elephant protection, biodiversity, and the importance of safeguarding the natural heritage of Laos. Through hands-on activities and storytelling, the children explored the delicate balance between humans, animals, and forests.
We’re proud to continue this tradition and help inspire the next generation of nature lovers and wildlife guardians. Because the future of conservation starts with awareness—and that begins with the youngest hearts and minds.
Planting for the Future:
Reforestation with Purpose
June marks the official start of tree-planting season at Mekong Elephant Park—a vital effort to restore forest cover and biodiversity. Working closely with the local government and community members, our team is planting endemic species such as rosewood, which have suffered from illegal logging.
Last month, we shared updates on the planting of banana trees, a vital food source for our elephants. But our efforts go further than nourishment—this month’s focus is on restoring the biodiversity and natural forest cover that elephants, and countless other species, rely on for long-term survival.
Every sapling we place into the earth represents hope: for a rebalanced ecosystem, for the return of native wildlife, and for a healthier, greener future where elephants and forests can thrive together.
Low Season, High Impact:
Behind-the-Scenes Care
While the low season brings fewer visitors, it’s one of the most important times of the year for essential maintenance and long-term upgrades across the sanctuary.
This month, our main focus has been the renovation of the mahouts’ houses. These dedicated elephant caretakers live on-site year-round and play a vital role in ensuring the wellbeing of each elephant. Providing them with improved living conditions is not only a matter of dignity—it’s an investment in the stability and care structure of the entire park.
We’re also conducting full maintenance checks on our boats, ensuring they remain safe and reliable for river operations.
These behind-the-scenes efforts may not be visible to most visitors, but they are the backbone of our sanctuary’s operations—ensuring that both people and elephants have the foundation they need to thrive, now and into the future.
Wallpaper of the month
We’re delighted to feature our beautiful females — Mae Ping, Mae Ping, and Mae Nat — in this month’s wallpaper.
Through every season, whether during the vibrant days of reforestation or the quiet rhythm of the low season, these three have remained inseparable. And now, thanks to the new night fence, they can continue spending time together not only during the day but also throughout the night, safely and peacefully under the stars.
Their deep bonds and gentle strength are daily reminders of the values that guide us: community, resilience, and care. Whether they’re playfully splashing in the river or resting calmly beneath the trees, their presence inspires and uplifts our entire team.
We hope this month’s wallpaper brings a bit of that same serenity and connection to your day.
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