The remains of Kenya's famous elephant Craig, who died on January 3, 2026, from an intestinal twist due to old age, will be preserved at the National Museums of Kenya. The elephant was renowned for his massive tusks that touched the ground, each weighing over 45 kilograms. This move aims to safeguard wildlife heritage for educational and recreational purposes.
Elephant Craig, who had resided in Amboseli National Park in Kajiado County for over 50 years, died on January 3, 2026. A post-mortem examination conducted by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) veterinarians on Saturday afternoon confirmed that his death resulted from a twist in the large intestine, attributed to old age and dietary changes.
Amboseli National Park's Assistant Director, Paul Wambi, stated: “Due to age-related factors, the elephant died from a twist in the large intestine, a condition contributed to by changes in diet.”
KWS has decided to preserve Craig's remains at the National Museums of Kenya, similar to the famous elephant Tim, who died in 2020. This preservation will serve educational, recreational, and inspirational purposes for future generations on wildlife conservation.
According to KWS, this action aligns with conservation laws, emphasizing that an animal's value is greater while alive than after death. Craig was a major tourism draw in Amboseli's ecosystem, and his passing prompted condolences from environmental conservationists worldwide.