By Tarik-ul-Islam
Sometimes, nature unveils such rare creations on its colorful canvas that they leave humanity in awe. One such creation is the “pink elephant.” But do pink elephants really exist? Is it a myth, or a genetically rare gift of nature? The answer lies in the concept of the “albino elephant,” whose skin color appears pink or pale white.
Albino Elephant: The Mystery Behind the Pink Hue
A pink elephant essentially refers to an albino elephant. It is not a separate species but a result of a genetic condition. Albinism is a physical state in which the body lacks melanin, the pigment responsible for coloring skin, hair, and eyes. When melanin is absent or severely reduced, the skin appears light pink or pale white.
Albino elephants are different in appearance from the usual brown or gray ones. In some cases, their eyes also appear pink or reddish.
Where Are These Rare Creatures Found?
Pink elephants have been seen in specific regions around the world, particularly in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos. Recently, a pink baby elephant was captured on camera in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, sparking global fascination. Local guides estimated the calf to be around a year old, roaming with its herd.
This sighting is significant because albino animals often struggle to survive in the wild. Due to excess sunlight exposure, difficulty in foraging, and higher visibility to predators, they are at greater risk.
The Majesty of Pink Elephants in Thai Culture
In Thailand, pink elephants are not just animals—they are considered royal symbols. In the Thai language, they are known as “Chang Samkhan,” meaning ‘sacred or auspicious elephant.’ Historically, they were presented as signs of a king’s prosperity and national fortune.
To present a pink elephant to the monarch is considered a supreme honor, symbolizing a ruler’s successful and flourishing reign.
Scientific Perspective
Albinism is not limited to elephants—it is also seen in other species such as deer, monkeys, crocodiles, and birds. But witnessing it in such a large and majestic animal as the elephant makes it all the more breathtaking.
Research shows that albino elephants make up less than one percent of the total elephant population. It is typically a hereditary condition and decreases survival chances due to their skin’s inability to withstand sunlight.
A Rare Pink Elephant in Barunachhari, Rangamati
For the first time in Bangladesh, a pink-colored wild elephant calf has been spotted in the forested hills—an extraordinary marvel of nature. The birth of this rare elephant in the remote Barunachhari area of Barkal Upazila in Rangamati has stirred excitement among wildlife experts. While albino elephants are occasionally found in parts of Asia, this is the first recorded instance in Bangladesh.
How Was the Pink Elephant Discovered?
On the morning of June 13, while a herd of elephants was crossing the Kaptai Lake, Md. Jahangir Alam, chief coordinator of the Forest Department’s Elephant Response Team (ERT), noticed an unusually colored calf among them. He recorded the scene and sent the footage to former divisional forest officer Md. Rezaul Karim of the Northern Circle in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The video quickly spread on social media, drawing widespread attention.
According to Jahangir Alam, the calf—about two weeks old—is currently part of a group of five elephants in Barunachhari. Unlike most elephant calves, which have dark fur, this one has pink skin and pale hair. The Forest Department believes this is a possible case of genetic mutation or albinism.
Nature’s Message
The pink elephant stands as a delicate message from nature—reminding us of the diversity that surrounds us. This rare presence tells us that nature is full of surprises and wonders. Protecting them is not just an ecological or zoological obligation—it is a moral responsibility.
Conclusion
Though pink elephants often live in stories, legends, or literature, their existence is not entirely fictional. As a rare gift of nature, these elephants teach us that genetic difference is not only a subject of scientific curiosity—it can also be a symbol of beauty, honor, and awe.
