A legendary elephant from Kenya’s Amboseli National Park has passed away at the age of 54. Craig, one of Africa’s largest and most famous male tuskers, died of natural causes early on Saturday morning, leaving a legacy of conservation success and global admiration. Known for his impressive size and calm nature, Craig was beloved by conservationists, tourists, and locals alike.

"Craig had just turned 54 years old. He led a long life and no doubt fathered many calves," said the Amboseli Trust for Elephants in a heartfelt farewell message. The organization praised Craig as one of the last remaining "super tuskers" in Africa, a rare and revered class of male elephants with tusks weighing over 45kg (100 lbs) each. His passing marks a significant loss to Kenya’s wildlife community.

Craig's tusks were a sight to behold, making him a top attraction at Amboseli National Park, located near the Tanzanian border. His majestic presence drew thousands of tourists annually, all eager to witness one of Africa’s living giants. Over the years, Craig became an icon for wildlife conservation efforts, and his peaceful demeanor earned him admiration from park visitors who were often seen photographing or filming him from a distance.

In 2021, Craig's fame reached new heights when he was named an ambassador for Tusker, a popular Kenyan lager brand. "Tusker" is a name often used to refer to adult male elephants with large tusks, making Craig the perfect representative for the brand. His association with Tusker further solidified his place as a symbol of Kenya’s rich wildlife heritage.

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) described Craig as a "living monument to Africa's natural heritage," underscoring the importance of preserving such majestic creatures. "Craig was one of the last remaining super tuskers in Africa – a rare class of bull elephants whose two tusks weigh over 45kg (100lb) each. Fewer than a handful remain today, making him a living monument to Africa's natural heritage."

Beyond his remarkable tusks, Craig was also celebrated for his gentle nature. "Craig was deeply loved for [his] remarkably calm nature," said KWS. "He often paused patiently as visitors photographed and filmed him, creating lasting memories for people from around the world."

Thanks to years of dedicated protection and conservation efforts, Craig’s death was peaceful. His legacy will live on through the ongoing work of the Amboseli Trust for Elephants and the Kenya Wildlife Service, who continue to protect and nurture the elephant populations of Amboseli and beyond.

Kenya’s tourism industry, which contributed 10% to the national GDP in 2023, has long depended on its rich wildlife to draw in millions of visitors each year. In 2022, over two million tourists visited the country, many of them hoping to catch a glimpse of Kenya’s iconic wildlife, including elephants like Craig.

Craig’s death highlights the ongoing need for wildlife conservation in Kenya and across Africa. His life and legacy serve as a reminder of the fragile state of wildlife in the region and the importance of protecting endangered species for future generations.