PAWS says African elephant Toka has died at 56

By AI, Created 8:21 PM UTC, May 28, 2026, /AGP/ – The Performing Animal Welfare Society announced the death of Toka, an African elephant it cared for at its San Andreas, California sanctuary. PAWS said the elephant died after a very brief illness and had lived at the facility for nearly 13 years.

Why it matters: - Toka was one of the oldest African elephants in North America, and her death underscores the limited lifespans elephants can face in captivity. - PAWS said elephants have complex physical and social needs that cannot be fully met in captivity. - The sanctuary continues to care for five elephants, so Toka’s death changes the lives of a remaining herd still living at ARK 2000.

What happened: - The Performing Animal Welfare Society announced that African elephant Toka died after a very brief illness. - Toka was 56. - PAWS cared for Toka at its 2,300-acre ARK 2000 sanctuary in San Andreas, California. - Toka had lived at PAWS for nearly 13 years.

The details: - Toka was born into a wild elephant family in Mozambique, Africa. - She was captured at about age 2 after culls orphaned calves. - Female elephants in nature remain with their mothers and family groups for life. - At age 4, Toka was sent to the Toronto Zoo. - She spent 39 years there before being relocated. - The Toronto City Council voted to move the remaining elephants to PAWS after the zoo ended its elephant program. - Toka arrived at the sanctuary in October 2013 with Thika and the late Iringa. - PAWS described Toka as recognizable for her long tusks and quiet presence. - Toka especially liked bananas and mud baths. - In captivity, the median life expectancy for a female African elephant is 39.4 years, according to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. - In the wild, female African elephants commonly live into their 50s and 60s, and some exceed 65 years. - PAWS continues to house elephants, big cats, bears, small wild cats, monkeys, and other captive wild animals.

Between the lines: - Toka’s story reflects the broader debate over elephant care in zoos and sanctuaries. - The comparison between wild and captive lifespans highlights how environment can shape long-term welfare. - PAWS framed Toka’s life at ARK 2000 as one marked by dignity, natural behaviors, and daily veterinary care.

What’s next: - PAWS will continue caring for the five elephants remaining at the sanctuary. - The organization says it will keep providing lifetime care for rescued and retired captive wild animals. - More information about PAWS is available here.