Phoenix Natural Zoo ends long-running elephant walk event

The popular “Asian Elephant Walk and Commemorative Photo” program at Miyazaki City Phoenix Natural Zoo concluded on September 27, ending approximately 20 years of the event. Many visitors gathered to see the 25-year-old female elephant, Midori, during her final walk.

The program, which began in 2005, is ending because Midori will begin breeding activities with Choi, a male elephant who arrived at the zoo three years ago. Midori originally arrived from Thailand in 2005 alongside a male elephant named Taiyo.

While the walking event has ended, commemorative photos with Midori will continue, and she will still appear during the “Elephant Snack Time” sessions that began in July.