Ginting

Ginting's herd cooling off in the river

Over this period, Ginting's group has been actively ranging across a vast area of approximately 145 km² in the southern part of the landscape - a reminder of just how much space these magnificent animals need to truly thrive. The team has consistently observed the herd moving through the PT Lestari Asri Jaya concession, where ex-mining sites and the beautiful Sumay River riparian corridor have become favourite haunts. These areas appear to function as important shelter and movement pathways. They also provide fresh water, regenerating vegetation and relatively lower levels of disturbance compared to surrounding agricultural zones. This area supports the resting and foraging behaviour of these precious elephants.

One of the most exciting observations this period was witnessing the great southern merger. Ginting's group joined with the Indah and Mutiara groups, forming a spectacular gathering of approximately 35-40 individuals. To see so many elephants moving together is a breathtaking reminder of the rich social lives these animals lead and the importance of protecting the habitat that makes such gatherings possible.

The herd's ability to navigate and adapt to a changing landscape continues to impress the field team. From plantation edges to old mining areas and riverbanks, Ginting and her family demonstrate a remarkable resilience and flexibility that gives us hope for their future. The Sumay River corridor has proven itself an invaluable lifeline - not just as a movement route, but as a place where the herd can rest and feed in safety.

The herd includes around 5-7 young subadult males. Their boundless energy and curiosity occasionally lead them toward community areas. The dedicated field team monitors these movements closely, responding quickly to prevent any conflict and ensure both elephants and local communities can coexist peacefully. Encouragingly, conflict incidents this period were notably lower in intensity than previous periods - a positive sign of the ongoing work being done on the ground.

Ginting's story is one of adaptability, resilience, and the enduring power of elephant social bonds - and it continues to unfold every single day in the forests of Bukit Tiga Puluh.

Because of your generous support, Ginting and her herd can move freely, forage safely, and live the wild lives they deserve. Thank you for being such an important part of their story. 🧡

(Program run by Ministry of Environment and Forestry and Frankfurt Zoological Society).