Community Wild Elephant With a Sweet Tooth Strolls Into Shop

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

A mischievous wild elephant known for his frequent jaunts through local villages has taken his snack-hunting antics to a new level, by walking straight into a neighbourhood grocery shop in broad daylight.

 

The elephant, named Plai Biang Lek, is a familiar figure to residents living near Khao Yai National Park. However, his unexpected appearance inside a small grocery shop in Nakhon Ratchasima Province on the afternoon of 2 June, marked a first, even for him.

 

The incident occurred around 15:00, when the towering animal strolled into the store and helped himself to a spontaneous feast, surprising the shop owner, Ploy, who was serving customers at the time. Ploy fled to safety and promptly alerted officials from Khao Yai National Park.

When park rangers arrived, they attempted to guide the elephant out of the premises. However, Plai Biang Lek seemed unfazed by the commotion and was in no hurry to leave. Instead, he spent over 10 minutes leisurely browsing the shop’s merchandise using his trunk, apparently searching for his preferred treats.

 

Interestingly, while wild elephants that venture into human settlements often go for salty foods, Plai Biang Lek demonstrated a rather refined palate. He chose “Nang Led,” a traditional Thai crispy sweet snack, along with a carton of chicken eggs, opting for sugar and protein over salt.

 

The elephant eventually exited the store without incident, though not without leaving behind some minor chaos. The impromptu visit caused damage to shelving and stock.

 

According to park officials, Plai Biang Lek has been spotted in the area numerous times and once raided a porridge vendor’s stall. However, this latest escapade, actually entering a shop and displaying a sweet tooth, was described as highly unusual behaviour for a wild elephant.

 

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by human-wildlife interactions in regions bordering national parks across Thailand. As natural habitats shrink and elephants search farther afield for food, encounters such as this are becoming increasingly common.

 

Officials from Khao Yai National Park say they will continue to monitor Plai Biang Lek’s movements, while urging residents and shopkeepers to remain vigilant.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-03.

 

 

 

[Briggsy]

That would have freaked me out if I had been in that shop. 

[FlorC]

Probably a lot of plastic in his stomach.

[hotchilli]

On 6/3/2025 at 5:21 AM, Georgealbert said:

A mischievous wild elephant known for his frequent jaunts through local villages has taken his snack-hunting antics to a new level, by walking straight into a neighbourhood grocery shop in broad daylight.

The penalty for getting caught would be worse at night... smart elephant

[Bundooman]

Heartwarming and brilliant. Feel sorry for the owner's  resultant damage costs though. 

Great advertisement though...

[watchcat]

The elephant needs a good shower according to the photo.