Kenyans are mourning the loss of a revered “super tusker” elephant, whose 54-year life in the wild symbolized the country’s growing success in protecting these mammals from ivory poachers. The Kenya Wildlife Service announced the passing of Craig, a legendary bull elephant, on Saturday. Craig was known for his immense, ground-sweeping tusks and calm demeanor, and lived in Amboseli National Park, a popular destination for safari tourism.
According to the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, Craig died of natural causes, and the organization expressed gratitude to those who helped the animal live out its life naturally. The term “super tusker” refers to a bull elephant with tusks weighing over 45 kilograms each, which scrape the ground as the elephant walks. Females with long tusks are referred to as “iconic cows.”
Craig was a major attraction in Amboseli National Park and was described by the Kenya Wildlife Service as an “icon” of successful conservation and a “living monument to Africa’s natural heritage.” In 2021, he was adopted by beer maker East African Breweries through its Tusker brand, highlighting his prominence and the collaboration between conservation groups and other organizations in Kenya. Craig fathered several calves, ensuring the continuation of his powerful bloodline and gentle character.
Kenya’s national parks and reserves are home to a diverse range of wildlife species, attracting millions of visitors each year and making the country a tourism hotspot. The elephant population in Kenya has grown from 36,280 in 2021 to 42,072 in 2025, according to official figures. However, the increasing population has also led to challenges, such as the need to relocate elephants in some areas. In 2024, about 100 elephants were relocated from the Mwea National Reserve due to the overwhelming population.
The conservation of elephants is an ongoing effort in Africa, with some countries facing challenges in managing their growing populations. In June, Zimbabwe announced plans to cull 50 elephants in a southeastern game reserve to manage soaring numbers. The meat from the operation will be distributed to nearby communities. The passing of Craig serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the need to protect these majestic creatures and their habitats.
