Thai National Elephant Day
March 13 · Level 6 · #957 of 2238
Thailand honours elephants as a national symbol and a living part of its history. The day also puts their welfare in the spotlight, reminding people that these much-loved animals need suitable habitats, veterinary care and considerate treatment.
How it is celebrated: elephant care centres prepare feasts of fruit and other favourite foods. Educational activities introduce visitors to elephant behaviour and the pressures facing wild populations.
Thailand's royal tradition gives white elephants special status, but the name can be misleading. These animals are identified by particular colouring characteristics; they do not necessarily have white skin.