Mondula, the only African elephant in Scotland, passed away on Friday morning after being at Blair Drummond Safari Park for the last 28 years.

The 54-year-old elephant, known as Mondy, lived in a number of European zoos before being transferred from Erfurt Zoo in Germany to Blair Drummond Safari Park in 1998. 

Mondy had six full-time keepers dedicated to her wellbeing. 

Head elephant keeper Suzie Marshall said: “Mondy was so beloved by everyone here and she will be much missed.

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“Her legacy is, however, a very important one. Having spent nearly half her life with us here at Blair Drummond, Mondy has allowed us to develop one of the most comprehensive elephant care plans in the country.

“And today, it stands as a benchmark for the care of the remaining stock of elephants in captivity.”

Born in 1971, it’s thought that Mondy was a wild-caught orphan calf. The practice of taking young animals from the wild was common at this time.

Those caring for Mondy said this left her with “specific challenges” however Blair Drummond were able to offer her a home.

‘Mondy’ at Blair Drummond. (Image: Bernie Catterall)

Blair Drummond Safari Park has now become one of the leading facilities for the care of geriatric female elephants. 

In 2013, the park built elephant houses for elderly female elephants where Mondy initially lived with two other female elephants, Estrella and Toto.

However, when Estrella passed in 2013 and Toto in 2016, the decision was made to house Mondy alone.

Following this, Mondy’s relationship with her keepers deepened, and she participated in more training.

As a result of more training her physical condition improved, which massively surprised expert veterinary consultants.

Leading elephant expert Professor Phyllis C. Lee from the University of Stirling said: “Her improvement in all aspects of physical appearance and behaviour was marked, with good and visible muscle development in her forelegs, and her sway-back is now completely gone.

“Mondy will be greatly missed by all the staff, visitors and members at Blair Drummond Safari Park.”

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Managing director of the park Hector Muir said Mondy played an “important role” in ongoing work to help endangered species.

Muir added: “During her years with us, she’s taught us so much and we’re so very proud of what we’ve achieved together.

“Her keepers have shown exceptional dedication to her care and it’s been a privilege to watch her thrive. And now it’s an honour to say a very sad farewell to this special lady.”