January 20, 2026

Saving Sumatran Elephants | Nigel Mason | Everyday Is Friday 365 | #144

1 hour 45 minutes

🔗Nigel Mason

https://bio.site/masonelephantpark

https://youtu.be/SZR1RGYY7n4?si=_NmOb3yqHSlITuJs

https://www.instagram.com/elephantsbali?igsh=MTRmbmp6eWI2YjY3OQ==

@everydayisfriday365

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(Matty B43)

Host of The Everyday is Friday 365 - https://dot.cards/matty_b43

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Show Notes

summary

In this episode of "Everyday is Friday 365," host Matthew welcomes Nigel Mason, the founder of Mason Elephant Park and Lodge in Bali. Nigel shares the inspiring story of how he and his wife started the park in 1997 to rescue and care for critically endangered Sumatran elephants. He discusses the dire situation these elephants face due to deforestation and poaching, and how their park has evolved over the years to provide a safe haven for these majestic creatures. Nigel emphasizes the importance of education and awareness, not just for the elephants but also for visitors who come to learn about their plight and the efforts being made to protect them.

Throughout the conversation, Nigel highlights the unique personalities of elephants, their intelligence, and the deep bonds they form with their caretakers, known as mohuts. He also addresses common misconceptions about elephant care and the ethical considerations surrounding elephant tourism. With a focus on transparency and kindness, Nigel invites listeners to visit the park and experience the joy of interacting with elephants firsthand, while also supporting their ongoing conservation efforts. The episode is a heartfelt reminder of the impact one can have on the lives of animals and the importance of preserving our natural world.

keywords

Mason Elephant Park, Sumatran elephants, elephant conservation, Bali, animal rescue, wildlife tourism, endangered species, elephant care, animal welfare, eco-tourism

takeaways

"We found out that there was an enormous problem in Indonesia with the survival of the Sumatran elephant."

"We wanted to give them a fantastic life."

"If you want to see the truth, come to the park. We're an open book."

"Elephants are incredibly powerful. They're very, very destructive."

"We try to keep them active as much as we can."

"We don't get government grants, don't get donations from anybody."

"If you believe that we do that to them, come to the park and have a look at the six babies who've been born at the park."

"We want to make sure that the elephants are protected, that they have a nice environment to live in."

"Every single inch of the park is accessible if you want to see it."

"We always love to get good publicity about the park."

titles

Saving Sumatran Elephants: A Journey of Compassion

Inside Mason Elephant Park: A Sanctuary for Endangered Giants

Sound Bites

""We had to finance it with our own money.""

""We literally reinvented how you train elephants.""

""About 250 kilos a day each. That's a lot of food.""

Chapters