|
Elephants, the largest of Thai’s land mammals, have evolved over more
than sixty million years. If the species currently declines and remain
unchecked in Asia, sixty million years of evolution will be wiped out
in just fifty years. In modern world, one place where elephants can
still have a close relationship with human is right here in Thailand.
Thai elephants are important animal in Thailand. They are smart land
mammals and hard-working beasts, providing transportation for mankind.
At those times of war, elephants played an indispensable role in the
war machine of Thailand and other Asian countries. Commanders fighting
duels on elephants back, documented throughout Thai history, required
strategic planning and great skills to lead armies to win wars.
Elephants in battle played a sterling part in maintaining the
sovereignty of Thailand in past war periods.
The
elephant appears in many Thai proverb sayings, such as "Kee Chang Chap
Tak-Taen". It means 'to ride an elephant to catch a grasshopper' which
is translated to English proverb as 'to use a sledgehammer to crack a
nut. Either emblem on regalia of national flag of Thailand or royal
emblems and also royal decorations are decorated elephant on it.
Undoubtedly, the elephant holds pride of place as the national symbol
of the Kingdom of Thailand.
Thai
elephant was selected as national animal because they has maintained
close link with Thai history and custom, it has a long life, and it is
closely related to the livelihood of Thai people as one of
transportation meaning both in times of peace and battles. Especially,
'White Elephant" is deeply connected to the King of Thailand, and white
elephant was portrayed in the former national flag. Thai elephant is a
genius animal. They can be trained to do many things such as elephant
showing, elephant back-riding, and apparently elephants play an
important role of eco-tourism.
Talent for a stately presence, for dedicate foot movement and agility,
for intelligence on the field of sport, and at the same time a
particular gentleness that makes the elephant not only a highly
respected creature but also the one that is appreciated and loved.
Courtesy
of Chang Chutiman Tour's pictures located
on Koh
Chang, Trat.
|
