Saint Louis Zoo announces Raja’s departure, plans to welcome new elephant in 2027

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

ST. LOUIS (KBSI) — The Saint Louis Zoo is preparing to say goodbye to one of its longtime residents as Raja, an Asian elephant, is set to move to another accredited zoo this fall.

The zoo announced that Raja’s departure will be followed by the arrival of Samudra, an 18-year-old male Asian elephant currently living at the Oregon Zoo, in 2027.

According to zoo officials, both moves are part of updated breeding recommendations from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Asian Elephant Species Survival Plan.

The program coordinates breeding and animal transfers among accredited zoos to help maintain healthy, genetically diverse populations of endangered species.

Zoo officials said the changes could create opportunities for new breeding pairs and future elephant calves.

Raja has been a longtime resident of the Saint Louis Zoo and is considered an important part of its history.

The zoo has not yet announced Raja’s new home but said additional information will be released as it becomes available.

To celebrate Raja before his departure, the zoo is inviting visitors to River’s Edge this weekend to sign an oversized farewell card.

The farewell activities will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Visitors can also purchase elephant-themed treats and merchandise while supplies last.

According to the zoo, fewer than 50,000 Asian elephants remain in the wild, making coordinated conservation and breeding efforts important to the species’ long-term survival.

Additional information about Raja’s move and Samudra’s upcoming arrival is available at stlzoo.org/news.