Beloved elephant Sakor dies at Phnom Tamao after brief illness

A much-loved elephant named Sakor has died at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center after suffering from severe abdominal swelling, despite efforts by veterinary staff to treat him.

He died on September 22 and was 34 years old. Sakor originally came from Botum Sakor National Park in Koh Kong province and was brought to the rescue center in 2012 after conflicts with local farmers. Officials said the transfer was intended to help protect residents and travelers.

During his years at the center, he became a valued member of the elephant herd and was cared for by keepers and veterinarians.

The Airavata Elephant Foundation said Sakor’s name was inspired by Botum Sakor National Park, noting that “Sakor” means “sea” in Khmer. The foundation said he lived peacefully at the center and formed a close bond with a female elephant named Chamroeun.

His death highlights the ongoing difficulty of balancing human activity and wildlife protection in Cambodia. An autopsy is planned to confirm the exact cause of death.