People everywhere are mourning Craig, one of Africa’s most beloved super tusker elephants. Born in January 1972 and passing on January 3, 2026, at 54 years old, Craig captured the hearts of people around the world. Let's honor him by sharing stories of his life, his gentle spirit, his incredible tusks, and the lessons he leaves for elephant conservation.
Who was Craig the elephant?
Craig was a famous African male elephant (bull) who lived in Amboseli National Park in Kenya. He was known for his calm nature, gentle presence, and very large tusks. Many people from around the world came to see him. Craig became a symbol of hope for elephants because he lived a long life in the wild and was protected from poaching.
Craig was born in January 1972 and passed away on January 3, 2026, at 54 years old.
What is a super tusker?
A super tusker is a very rare elephant with extremely large tusks. Each tusk usually weighs more than 100 pounds. Only a small number of elephants ever grow tusks this big. Super tuskers are special because they carry strong genetics and play an important role in elephant history and conservation.
Why were Craig’s tusks so important?
Craig’s tusks were important because they showed what elephants can become when they are protected. His long, ground-sweeping tusks were a sign of age, strength, and good care. Sadly, elephants with large tusks are often targeted by poachers, which is why Craig’s protection was so important.
How do elephants die naturally?
When elephants are protected from poaching and harm, they often die from natural causes. This can include old age, illness, or not being able to eat enough food as their bodies change. Craig lived a full life in the wild, which is what conservation efforts hope for all elephants.
What happens to elephants’ teeth as they age?
Elephants do not grow new teeth forever like humans do. Instead, they go through six sets of molar teeth during their lifetime. These large teeth help them grind tough plants, grass, and bark.
What are elephant molars, and why do they matter?
Elephant molars are very large teeth used to chew food. As elephants age, these molars slowly wear down. Once the last set is worn out, the elephant can no longer chew food well. This makes it hard to eat enough to stay healthy.
Why is it hard for older elephants to eat?
Older elephants need a huge amount of food every day. Craig weighed about 17,600 pounds, so he needed to eat many pounds of plants daily. When his molars became too worn, he could not eat enough food to support his large body.
Did Craig die from natural causes?
Yes, it is believed that Craig passed away from natural causes. While a post-mortem exam is still pending, severe molar wear likely made it difficult for him to eat enough food. This is a natural part of aging in elephants who live long lives.
Why is Amboseli National Park important for elephants?
Amboseli National Park is one of the best places in Africa for elephants. It provides space, protection, and careful monitoring. Rangers and conservation teams work hard to keep elephants safe from poaching and human conflict.
How long do African elephants live in the wild?
African elephants can live between 50 and 70 years in the wild when they are protected. Their lifespan depends on many things, including food, water, safety from poaching, and overall health. Elephants who live in safe national parks and protected areas often live much longer than those who face constant danger.
Craig lived to be 54 years old, which shows he had strong protection and good care throughout his life in Amboseli National Park.
What does Craig’s life teach us about elephant conservation?
Craig’s life shows what real elephant conservation looks like. It means protecting elephants where they live, respecting their natural lives, and allowing them to grow old in the wild. Conservation is not just about saving elephants—it is about giving them the chance to live full lives.
Why did people love Craig so much and travel from all over the world to see him?
People loved Craig because he was rare, majestic, and gentle. His huge tusks and calm presence amazed everyone who saw him. Craig also represented hope for elephants and showed what protection and care can do. Travelers felt a connection to him and wanted to witness a living super tusker while they could. Visiting Craig was like meeting a wise elder of the wild, and his life inspired awe, respect, and love.
Craig will always be remembered as a gentle giant and a symbol of hope for elephants everywhere. By learning about his life, we can help protect the future of elephants for generations to come.
Stories help the next generation connect with elephants and understand why conservation matters. The Little Elephant’s Big Adventure is a children’s book that introduces young readers to the wonders of African wildlife and the importance of protecting gentle giants like Craig.
Mila Inspired
January 04, 2026
