Rescued elephant now free to live peacefully after 80 years of forced labor in harsh conditions

Animals removed from their natural habitats often endure harsh realities in captivity. Stripped of their freedom, they are confined to cruel conditions, typically exploited for entertainment or profit. In captivity, these animals lose more than just their liberty—they lose their identity and essence. Similarly, an 87-year-old female elephant named Somboon spent eight decades working in the logging and tourism industries. Thankfully, she was later rescued by the Save Elephant Foundation. Her inspiring rescue story was shared by Elephant Nature Park (@elephantnaturepark) on their official Instagram page.

Like many others, this rescued elephant was taken into captivity when Asia permitted the capture of wild elephants for labor. Somboon was removed from her natural habitat as a calf and forced into a life of servitude. Over the years, she endured countless hardships, including performing in shows, begging on streets and providing riding services. Just when it seemed hope for a better future was lost, life took an unexpected turn. At the age of 87, Somboon was finally rescued from the camp where she had worked tirelessly for decades.

"Despite her frail physical condition—thin, with just ribs remaining, dry skin, hazy eyes and lost teeth—she deserves a chance at freedom and a better quality of life," the rescue organization wrote in their caption. The shelter also shared heartbreaking photos of the senior elephant enduring the harsh conditions of the camp. Somboon’s story quickly gained attention on social media, resonating with many and sparking widespread compassion.

For instance,@carolefrost wrote, "It breaks my heart, how can humans justify this abuse of these beautiful animals. I hope and pray she lives the remaining years in peace and enjoys her freedom. Thank you for rescuing these elephants." @chrissieopenshaw wrote, "I can’t believe she is that old that’s sickening that people made her work and exploited her still at that age. My heart goes out. Thank you for helping her I can only hope there are no more elephants at that age out there and this is highly unusual." @chiung wrote, "Oh my! 87 years of hardship and torture. It’s so heartbreaking. I pray to God that she will have a happy life and many friends to embrace her and love her in the park. Thank you for all the wonderful work you have done for those magnificent creatures."

Meanwhile, @emma commented, "I love you so much... all.of you for helping these kind gentle giants. Our task was to look after the world and all the creatures and flowers and fauna. You are doing your part. Bless you! God bless your health your wealth and your determination to carry on the good work." On the other hand, @pamelamarie wrote, "Bless her soul and everyone who is helping her home to you. What I don’t understand is how looking at her photo, people are ready to ride her or even get onto her back - those people are soulless. Another analogy is 'If a taxi turned up all rusty metal and damaged; would the passenger get in - I think not!'. People say it is ignorance - our eyes don’t lie!"

You can follow Elephant Nature Park (@elephantnaturepark) on Instagram for more elephant-related stories.