Olifantenasiel in Thailand. Foto Mario Weigt / Anzenberger THAILAND / Chiang Mai Province / Mae Taeng Valley / 2010 / Elephant Nature Park / Tourists bath the pachyderms in the Mae Taeng River. Daily bath for the animals is important for cooling and to wash off the parasites. Thai conservationist Sangduen Chailert (49) well-known nicknamed Lek (means small) has a huge heart for elephants. In 1995, Sangduen Lek Chailert started with the Elephant Nature Park on the Mae Taeng River, north of Chiang Mai. In this natural refuge, over 30 elephants can stroll freely around under control of their mahouts during the day. At the Elephant Nature Park and Elephant Haven, Lek and volunteers, mahouts and veterinarians, all take care of the elephants which abuse by the owners or have suffered injuries. After treatments and successful healing, Sangduen Chailert brings the animals to Elephant Haven, a retirement home, where the animals can wander around unhindered by chains, fences and the rules of men. Â© Mario Weigt / Anzenberger Uit serie: Olifantenasiel in Thailand (37x)