Scotland’s only African elephant, Mondula, has died at the age of 54 after a period of ill health. Known affectionately as Mondy, she was humanely put to sleep on Friday at Blair Drummond Safari Park near Stirling, where she had lived since 1998 after being transferred from Erfurt Zoo in Germany.
Born in 1971, Mondula is believed to have been orphaned before being captured from the wild, a practice common at the time. The park said this traumatic beginning presented unique challenges for her keepers throughout her life. Her care led to Blair Drummond becoming one of Europe’s leading facilities for geriatric female elephants, including the construction of a cutting-edge elephant house in 2013.
Head elephant keeper Suzie Marshall said: “Mondy was so beloved by everyone here and she will be much missed. Her legacy is, however, a very important one. Having spent nearly half her life with us, Mondy has allowed us to develop one of the most comprehensive elephant care plans in the country.”
After arriving at the park, Mondula lived with two other female elephants, Estrella and Toto. However, due to her lack of exposure to a stable family herd structure, she struggled to form close bonds. Following the deaths of Estrella in 2013 and Toto in 2016, the decision was made to house Mondula alone, which deepened her bonds with her six full-time keepers and improved her physical condition.
Elephant expert Professor Phyllis C Lee from the University of Stirling commended the park’s work, noting marked improvement in Mondula’s physical appearance and behaviour. Managing director Hector Muir said: “As well as being a hugely beloved character, Mondy played an important part in our work to protect endangered species. Her keepers have shown exceptional dedication, and it’s an honour to say a very sad farewell to this special lady.”
