Gajraj is the oldest male tusker currently residing at our facility in Mathura. He is the most recent rescue by Wildlife SOS and is one of our largest elephants. He is about 60 years old. 

Most of the elephants that have come into our care have a bell attached to a rope around their neck. We ceremoniously remove the bells to signify their freedom. The bells are auctioned off to raise money for the care of all the rescued elephants at Wildlife SOS. 

A large bell for a large elephant! This is the largest bell we have removed from any of our elephants. Measuring approx 6 x 6 inches at it's widest/tallest

Gajraj's Story: 

Gajraj was rescued in 2017 after nearly 70 years as a temple elephant in Maharashtra. Due to his advanced age and the abuse and neglect he had suffered during his time in captivity, he had numerous ailments including a broken bone in his toe, multiple abscesses and extremely poor foot condition. Initially scared and nervous in his new home at ECCC, Gajraj has slowly begun recovering thanks to our dedicated staff and the care they shower on him.

More about his rescue: http://wildlifesos.org/blog/gajrajs-rescue-journey-to-our-elephant-conservation-care-center/