Wild Elephant Sai Dor Thong Muan Dies After Infection Battle
A 50-year-old wild elephant named Sai Dor Thong Muan died in Kanchanaburi Province after developing pneumonia and pressure sores during treatment for a leg injury that began in late June.
Sai Dor Thong Muan, a 50-year-old wild elephant, has collapsed following ongoing veterinary care for an injury to her left hind leg. Veterinarians identified pneumonia, multiple pressure sores on her body, poor food intake, and weakness from extended periods of lying down as contributing factors. On August 7, 2025, Sukhee Bunsrang, director of the Wildlife Conservation Office, reported that the elephant had been receiving treatment since June 29, 2025, after her injury was discovered in Khao Takhaeng forest near Ban Salob in Bo Plyai District, Kanchanaburi Province, outside the sanctuary's boundaries. A treatment report from August 5 noted that Sai Dor Thong Muan was eating and drinking poorly, showing weakness, increased lethargy, and reduced responsiveness to her surroundings. Despite continuous care from veterinarians and staff, the elephant's condition deteriorated. Following her death, veterinarians will conduct a necropsy and collect tissue samples for detailed examination to determine the precise cause of death. The sanctuary head will file incident reports and request authorization to bury the carcass according to proper procedures.
