Craig : Your questions answered
Answering Your Questions About Craig and Africa’s Great Tuskers
Following our recent tribute to Craig, the legendary Great Tusker of Amboseli, we have received an outpouring of messages and thoughtful questions from supporters around the world. As the founder of Saving The Survivors, a world-renowned elephant veterinarian, and the author of several books dedicated to tuskers, Dr. Johan Marais is uniquely placed to provide clarity and context. Below, we share his answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What was the cause of Craig’s death, and was 54 a normal age to pass?
Elephants only have six sets of molars (teeth) during their lifetime. The final set erupts at around 30 years of age and then wears down gradually over time. Once these molars are too worn, an elephant can no longer chew or digest food effectively, which ultimately leads to death through starvation.
While there have been some reports suggesting a ruptured gut, Craig was already 54 years old. Long-term research in Amboseli shows that very few bull elephants live beyond 52 years, due to a combination of factors. In this context, Craig actually did exceptionally well to reach the beginning of his 54th year.
Was Craig alone when he passed?
No. Rangers from the Big Life Foundation were with Craig throughout the night. They noticed he was becoming weaker on 2 January and stayed with him until the end. Big Life and their rangers do an extraordinary job protecting iconic bulls like Craig, as well as other wildlife in the region.
Was his death quick, painless, and natural?
Craig’s passing was natural. While it is impossible to know whether it was completely painless, there were no signs of struggle or distress observed.
Did Craig have any offspring?
Yes. Craig definitely has offspring in and around the Amboseli region, meaning his genes will live on through many calves. The peak reproductive age for bull elephants is between 40 and 50 years, and Craig would have sired numerous calves during his lifetime—particularly during this key decade.
What will happen to Craig’s body?
It appears that the Kenyan authorities have taken Craig’s body to Nairobi for eventual display in a museum. Given his iconic status, this will allow future generations to learn about and appreciate one of Africa’s last great tuskers.
How many great tuskers are left?
A great tusker is defined as an elephant carrying 100 pounds (45 kg) or more of ivory in one or both tusks.
Africa is home to approximately 400,000 elephants, but it is estimated that only around 50 great tuskers remain. That means just 0.01% of the population still carries such large ivory.
One hundred years ago, this percentage was dramatically higher—likely 30% or more. Relentless hunting and poaching of bulls before the age of 40 meant they were killed before they had sufficient opportunity to pass on their genes. Bulls only begin carrying heavy ivory from around 35 years of age, so removing them early has had a devastating genetic impact on tusker populations.
Are there young tuskers today?
Yes, there is hope. There are several promising young tuskers in Kruger National Park (South Africa), Tembe Elephant Park (South Africa), Tsavo National Park (Kenya), and Amboseli National Park (Kenya). Some of these emerging bulls—including individuals such as Xidudla, Nambu, and Tee-jay—represent the future of great tuskers.
Many of these elephants will be featured in Dr. Johan Marais’ third Tusker book, due for release later this year.
Craig’s life—and his peaceful passing—remind us both of what has been lost and what can still be saved. His story reinforces why continued protection, patience, and long-term commitment are essential if future generations are to witness giants like him roaming free.
Thank you for your compassion, your questions, and your continued support of elephant conservation.
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