From Skeptic to Believer: My Elephant Journey
By Annie Schindler - 4 week intern
I have always had pretty far-fetched dreams of what I wanted to do with my life. I love animals, traveling, and working with people. Although my 18-year-old self decided to study communications in college, I have since pivoted and decided to follow my dream of working with wildlife. This experience was an experiment for me: Would I really, truly love studying animals? After 4 weeks of studying elephants in Thailand, the answer is a resounding “yes”.
The Research:
The research aspect of this project allowed me to collect data for an ongoing study on semi-wild elephants while also giving me the freedom to choose my own topic to explore. I had endless questions about the sanctuary, the research, and the elephants (Thank you to the KSES staff,
especially Lacey, for answering every single one of them). Each scientific paper I read enhanced my understanding of elephants and left me with an insatiable desire to learn more. It became difficult for me to choose a topic because each data set was filled with fascinating information about the elephants, their behavior, and their relationships with each other. After choosing to focus on the unusual association patterns of the herd, I ended my presentation with a slide detailing more questions begging to be explored. The research aspect of this internship combined my analytical and curious mind with my love for animals and passion for conservation.
The Elephants:
Coming into this program, I didn’t know much about elephants except that my grandmother would give me elephant knick-knacks about twice a year (She’s obsessed. It seems to run in the family). In the first few days, I could not remember the six elephants’ names, let alone tell them apart. Fast forward four weeks and I can distinguish Sri Prai’s vocalizations from Junior’s and Dodo’s, I know that Mae Doom has fuzz on her head while Sri Prai does not, Too Meh has no hair on her tail, and Boon Rott has tusks. I could watch Junior explore all day and never get bored. Recording the behavior and associations of these elephants for 90 minutes a day gave me insight into their personalities, quirks, and frustrations.
The contrast between their past and present is stark. I look at these elephants, ears flapping and tails swinging with contentment, and cannot imagine the pain and suffering they endured before coming to Kindred Spirit. I didn’t think it was possible to become so attached to elephants that I only observed from a distance. Dedication to the wellbeing of the elephants is apparent throughout the sanctuary. After returning from each hike, staff, guests, and interns all crowd around a small cellphone screen to watch videos of the elephants and chatter excitedly about their observations. Watching the mahouts interact with the elephants is endearing; you can see how much they care for them. I was definitely skeptical of working for an elephant sanctuary after hearing horror stories of elephant mistreatment and abuse. Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary, however, proved to be a truly ethical and science-driven organization. My experience shows that you don’t need to feed, bathe, or ride an elephant to feel a connection. Just watching them and understanding the level of intelligence and empathy each elephant possesses is enough.
The People:
Kindred Spirit’s dedication to the community is refreshing. All too often, conservation organizations lose sight of the importance of local communities. Understanding the connection between local communities and conservation initiatives is essential for long-term impact—something Kindred Spirit understands quite well. This community touched my heart in ways that are difficult to explain. Whether it was dancing with the children at Village English, learning to weave with Nee, or singing with Kanda, I felt the essence of the community all around me. I loved walking to Base and observing the village. Each morning I would pass families and friends gathered around fires, women chatting while weaving intricate designs into bags and scarves, and children shrieking with joy as they swam in the river on blistering hot days. Being able to experience a community so different from my own was a blessing. I hope to never forget the kindness and sense of togetherness I felt within the village.
The Takeaway:
I feel grateful for the sadness I experienced when leaving the village. As difficult as it was to say goodbye to my friends, the village, the elephants, and the dogs (see below), it shows me just how truly wonderful my experience was. I will forever cherish the incredible relationships I built, the hours spent playing cards and asking each other questions, playing "Lacey Stick" while hiking to see the elephants, running from Libre, and the genuine joy I felt when the dogs stopped howling at night. To anyone reading this and considering visiting Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary: Do it. Take the chance and witness this unique model that balances both community and animal welfare. To see elephants that have suffered their entire lives return to the forest is a beautiful thing. Every living being deserves to be treated with compassion and Kindred Spirit is certainly doing its part.
Sincerely,
⅓ of a very unforgettable group of interns.
Bonus Segment: The Dogs
First of all, I would like to apologize to everyone at KSES who was forced to listen to my obsession with each and every one of the village dogs. I may or may not have sobbed while saying goodbye to Mila. The village dogs were an integral part of my experience and, if possible, I would take at least seven home. If you are considering coming to KSES, know that there are about 50 dogs waiting to greet you, each with their own quirky personality. A huge shoutout to Mila and Padah, my heart and soul. Please give them pets for me.
