Savannah’s legendary super-tusked elephant dies, leaving a towering conservation legacy

Craig, the majestic super tusker of Amboseli National Park, has died at the age of 54. (Image: Facebook/@Amboseli Trust For Elephants)

Craig, one of Africa’s most iconic super tuskers, died naturally in January 2026 in Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. Known for his sweeping tusks and calm nature, he symbolised conservation success. Studied since birth, Craig’s long life reflected effective anti-poaching efforts, while his passing highlights the fragility of Africa’s remaining giant elephants and the need for continued protection.

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Craig, one of Africa’s most iconic super tuskers, died peacefully from natural causes in Amboseli National Park, conservation authorities in Kenya confirmed. His death marks the passing of a rare elephant whose enormous tusks swept the ground and weighed more than 45 kilograms each, making him instantly recognisable against Mount Kilimanjaro. Wildlife officials said there were no signs of human interference, noting Craig died just days after turning 54.

A life shaped by Amboseli’s elephant families

Craig was born in January 1972 in Amboseli National Park to Cassandra, the matriarch of the CB family, one of the park’s core elephant groups. The CB family has been closely monitored since 1972 as part of the world’s longest-running elephant research project, led by the Amboseli Trust for Elephants.

Researchers believe Craig once had a twin sister named Cerise, who now leads the CB family. Female elephants remain together under matriarchal leadership, while male elephants eventually leave to live independently, a path Craig followed into adulthood. Scientists tracked his movements and behaviour for decades, gaining rare insights into the life of a super tusker.

The Amboseli Trust for Elephants officially confirmed Craig’s death and thanked park rangers, the Kenya Wildlife Service, and local Maasai communities for protecting him throughout his life. Conservationists credited strong patrols and community cooperation for allowing Craig to survive well beyond the age when many large-tusked elephants once fell to poaching.

Why super tuskers like Craig matter

Super tuskers are among Africa’s rarest elephants, with experts estimating only around 84 remain across the continent. After Craig’s death, just nine super tuskers remain in Amboseli. Decades ago, heavy poaching targeted elephants with massive ivory, drastically reducing their numbers. Craig survived those years and benefited from stronger conservation measures that allowed him to reach old age. His calm nature set him apart, as he avoided conflict with farms and water sources, earning respect among Maasai communities sharing his range.

Photographers and tourists often waited patiently for Craig, who frequently paused, allowing close observation and iconic images. These photographs travelled globally, helping raise awareness about elephant conservation. In 2021, Craig became an ambassador for the Tusker beer brand, highlighting how corporate partnerships can support wildlife protection.

What Craig leaves behind for conservation

Researchers believe Craig fathered many calves and mentored younger bulls, passing on his impressive genes. His long life reflects Kenya’s conservation progress, with elephant numbers rising through dedicated patrols and local involvement. However, his death also highlights ongoing threats, including habitat loss and the lingering effects of past poaching. Tributes have poured in worldwide, describing Craig as calm, dignified, and inspiring. His legacy lives on in the herds he helped sustain and the renewed commitment to protect Africa’s remaining super tuskers.