Kham Mool Yai is the first domesticated elephant to be introduced to the wild under a programme that will see a further 80 released over time by the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation.

However, many fear the animals may not be able to adjust.

Kasetsart University's Narit Bhumiphakphan said domestic elephants born and raised in captivity depended on humans for survival.

"It will be very hard for them to change their habits and survive," he said.

But foundation chairman Sumet Tantivejkul argued Kham Mool Yai had two years to learn to survive.

The elephant has been living in Sublangka with her mahout during that time.

"She is now ready to live in the forest as a wild animal," he added.

Sumet explained foundation staff would observe Kham Mool Yai for the next five years. The foundation was established several years ago in response to concerns of Her Majesty the Queen.

When indigenous logging was ended in Thailand in the 1980s, thousands of domesticated elephants were out of work.

Handlers were forced to roam them in cities, begging for money or food to care for the animals.

Pasara Puthamat

The Nation