Elephant Celebrates Halloween by Smashing Pumpkin

Duncan, a 12-year-old Asian elephant at Denver Zoo, recently celebrated the Halloween season by joyfully smashing and consuming a large, donated pumpkin. This festive activity is part of the zoo's "Squish the Squash" tradition, designed to provide enrichment for the elephants.

The zoo's animal care team consistently develops new ways to ensure the mental and emotional health of its six male Asian elephants. The pumpkin treat, while appearing as pure fun, serves as a unique fall-themed enrichment activity for these intelligent animals.

Asian elephants are listed as endangered by the IUCN, with approximately 35,000 remaining in the wild. Habitat loss, largely due to unsustainable palm oil farming, poses a significant threat to their survival. Consumers can help by choosing products made with sustainable palm oil.

Denver Zoo is also hosting its "Boo at the Zoo" event, an after-dark trick-or-treat experience featuring candy stations and themed characters, running until Friday, October 30, 2026, with a sensory-friendly night on Halloween.