Saint Louis Zoo's beloved elephant Raja celebrates 32nd birthday

ST. LOUIS - Raja the Asian elephant, a long-time beloved fixture of the Saint Louis Zoo, celebrated his 32nd birthday Friday. 

It marked the icon's final celebration locally as he will transfer to the famous Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio in 2025 in order to help form a new family at the facility and save the species from extinction.

Many zoo attendees have been following the pachyderm since his December 1992 arrival.

"The first year Raja was born, I started a tradition of bringing my kids here because it's my birthday too," said St. Louisian Patty Ort. "We've been doing this every single year since."

"Oh, I never miss a birthday for Raja," added Michelle Monahan. "I think it's amazing what they have done, and I don't think that there's any question that Raja knows when his birthday is."

Raja's legacy at the zoo contains three daughters and a grandson, Jet, who was born last month.

The specific date for his journey to Columbus has yet to be set, but some are already ready for the big move.

"He'll love it," said Dawn Berry, formerly from Columbus, about the facility. "He's gonna adapt very well. It's a nicer climate, I feel like, in the summertime. He's going to adjust to it a little bit more to the weather. I wish I could go with him."

"It's hard," added Monhan. "I would like for him to stay here and be here, but this is the best move for him."