PAWS Says Goodbye to Toka – One of the Oldest African Elephants in North America
By PAWS
It is with great sadness that PAWS announces the passing of Toka, one of the oldest African elephants in North America, at the age of 56. For nearly 13 years, Toka lived at the PAWS sanctuary, where she enjoyed the freedom to roam rolling hills, forage, take mud baths, and simply live as an elephant in a peaceful, natural environment. Known for her graceful tusks, gentle spirit, and love of bananas, Toka became a beloved member of the PAWS family and touched the hearts of caregivers, volunteers, and supporters alike.
Toka’s life was one of remarkable resilience. Born in the wilds of Mozambique, she was orphaned and captured as a young calf before spending 39 years at the Toronto Zoo. In 2013, she was relocated to PAWS, where she finally experienced the space, care, and dignity every elephant deserves. Her story serves as both a reminder of the hardships many captive elephants have endured and a testament to the healing power of compassion. Toka will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the countless lives she inspired and in the sanctuary that gave her a peaceful place to call home.