— Phu Pa —
Born around 1985, Phu Pa (which means big mountain or cliff) is the youngest adult male at Elephant Nature Park. He came to the park as a leased elephant in 2004, accompanied by his blood related aunt, Mae Elu.
Phu Pa was brought here specifically because of his ‘reproductive prowess’ to broaden the gene pool. He is known for his healthy interest in the female species. He could have been an impressive tusker, but when he was younger, his tusks were cut down too short and the nerves died, so they did not grow back.
Before arriving at Elephant Nature Park, Phu Pa worked at a trekking camp with his aunt. On arrival to the park, Phu Pa was rather thin, but generally in good health. He has experienced a few short, pre-adulthood musth periods during his stay at the Park. This marks the transition from teenager to manhood, where before he could be bullied by some of the older park females, now he is no longer so easily intimidated. His child-like streak, however is still apparent. Even though he is over 20yrs old, he can often be seen playing with the youngsters Hope and Tong Suk. Quite frequently the last one to come out of the river when it is time to bathe, Phu Pa prefers instead to frolic and wrestle in the water.
Many visitors remember Phu Pa for his outgoing personality and amorous adventures. His advances are not welcomed by all of the females though, sometimes earning him harsh rejection. Nonetheless, Phu Pa seems determined to continue to spread his genes, and aspires to be the permanent ‘Casanova’ of the Park for years to come.
To learn more about the histories and personalities of our elephants, please click on any of the links below.
