Portland, United States - October 17, 2024

In a spectacle that delights both visitors and residents of the Oregon Zoo, the Asian elephants took center stage today, obliterating colossal pumpkins during the 26th annual "Squishing of the Squash." This event not only showcases the strength of these magnificent creatures but also serves as a celebration of conservation and animal enrichment.

Steve Lefave, overseeing the zoo's Asian elephant area, described how the elephants first demolished their oversized treats before savoring them. "We gave our elephant family some extra-large pumpkins to stomp on and chomp on," he shared, highlighting the dual purpose of destruction and delight.

This tradition, which began in 1999 with a donation from Hoffman’s Dairy Garden, continues to grow, with this year's pumpkins reaching sizes up to 809 pounds, courtesy of Larry Nelson and his daughter, Amanda Gilmour from the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers Club.

The "Squishing of the Squash" not only entertains but also acts as a precursor to the zoo's Howloween festivities, engaging the community in wildlife education and conservation efforts. This year's Howloween, set for October 19-20 and 26-27, promises fun and learning for attendees of all ages.

Amidst the fun, the event sheds light on the plight of Asian elephants, now critically endangered due to habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, and disease. With an estimated population of only 40,000 to 50,000 left in fragmented habitats, the Oregon Zoo's commitment to their conservation is more vital than ever.