Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Celebrates 50 Years of Conservation

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka celebrated its 50th anniversary on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in its dedication to elephant care and conservation. Established in 1975, the orphanage began with five baby elephants and now houses 69 elephants of various ages, providing refuge for those orphaned or injured. During the anniversary celebration, the elephants were treated to a feast of fruits, and visitors were invited to participate in the festivities. The event highlighted the orphanage's successful breeding program, which has seen over 75 births, including a rare set of twins in 2021. Officials emphasized the importance of the facility as a major tourist attraction and revenue generator for the state, as thousands of visitors come to witness the elephants' daily routines. The occasion reflected the commitment of the staff and the support from the global community of elephant lovers.