"Fare Well, Dear Sweet Peanut": Heartbroken we announce the loss of our beloved elephant Peanut a severely injured and traumatised elephant, lived with us WildlifeSOS for 10 years

 

This photo above is how we would like for Peanut (left) to be remembered, frolicking in the river with her best friend Coco (right).

We’re heartbroken to announce the loss of our beloved elephant Peanut. Surrounded by veterinary teams and caregivers, the colourful, mischievous elephant unexpectedly passed away January 9. For everyone at Wildlife SOS and Peanut’s many supporters, her loss is heart-wrenching. Born into chains in a circus and kept away from her mother as a baby, Peanut faced many long-term health challenges as a result of malnutrition and neglect at such a young age. She was first found standing in her own feces, chained in sight of her mother but unable to reach her warm embrace, and that trauma had lasting consequences. Peanut (R) and Coconut’s (L) bond was forged in the harsh environment of the circus, where the two young elephants found solace and strength in each other during their difficult and painful experiences. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/Mradul Pathak] Peanut loved water Wildlife SOS cares for some of the sickest, severely injured and traumatised elephants, and Peanut was no different. She had good days and bad days, but her rapid decline stunned even our expert veterinarians who worked feverishly to save her. The dear elephant is a tragic reminder that the damage done to abused captive elephants lasts long after their rescue. After 10 years as part of the loving Wildlife SOS family, we are struggling to find the right words to say goodbye. We’ve attempted to capture some of our special memories with Peanut and her magnetic personality with this tribute. We hope you will cherish the memory of her and find some comfort that Peanut was loved by all, and that we were able to give her almost a decade of kindness, compassion and freedom. In the Memory of a Spirited Elephant Prankster Peanut is dearly missed For she was sweet, vibrant and vivacious. Forever mischievous and playful, Conjuring pranks in her enclosure spacious. Every morning, day and night, She employed varying methods of ploy To keep her caregivers on their toes, Yet a source of immense joy. Rescued from the travails of a circus Her fear of humans she outgrew. With health issues yet a robust spirit To herself everyone she drew. With affection, amazement and laughter She filled those whose lives she touched. A gentle and mischievous soul Shared a camaraderie with her mate such. For inseparable were Peanut and Coconut While at feeding or at play. They shared every moment together Whether it was night or day. We wish, gentle soul, in peace you may rest For having known you we feel blessed. © Shefali Ray

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	This photo above is how we would like for Peanut (left) to be remembered, frolicking in the river with her best friend Coco (right).