Past President Charlie Gray
Charlie Gray, President
Charlie Gray brings over 25 years of elephantexperience as the Elephant Manager at African Lion Safari in Ontario, Canada. Charlie Gray manages the largest breeding herd of Asian elephants in Canada and the largest Asian elephant herd in any zoological facility in North America. African Lion Safari has had 11 Asian elephants born at the park since 1991 and has had more second generation births than any other facility in North America. All of the calves born at the park – originating from 5 different fathers and 5 different mothers – are still living. Charlie is well known for his progressive elephant management program that utilizes elephants for display, education, rides and demonstrations. He is also well respected for his ability to manage multiple adult bulls in a breeding situation. African Lion Safari has been involved in many research projects including monitoring testosterone levels in males, semen collection, artificial insemination, and female Asian elephant hormone and urine assays. Gray is a founding member and past Board member of the Elephant Managers Association and a long-term member of the American Zoo and Aquarium (AZA) Elephant Taxon Advisory Group (AZA TAG/SSP) Management Group.