TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taipei Zoo (台北市立動物園) conducted a moving memorial ceremony Wednesday (Sept. 17) during the Ghost Festival (中元節), a traditional Buddhist and Taoist observance honoring deceased spirits, to commemorate beloved animal companions who passed away this year. The solemn tribute honored the African elephant Mei Tai (美代) alongside other cherished animals who left lasting impacts on visitors and staff. This century-old tradition reflects Taiwan's deep cultural reverence for both human and animal spirits during the sacred festival period.
Zoo officials announced in their press release that the annual Ghost Festival ceremony remembers departed animals, with this year's tribute including the African elephant Mei Tai (美代), brown bear Hsiao Chiao (小喬), and white rhinoceros Hsi Min (犀敏). The institution emphasized that these beloved animals' absence has profoundly affected the community, creating valuable opportunities for visitors to learn about grief, acceptance, and personal growth through loss. Their memory continues inspiring educational conversations about life's natural cycles and emotional healing.
Zoo administrators highlighted the memorial's educational significance as integral life education programming that helps participants process grief and celebrate cherished animal relationships. The ceremony provides meaningful opportunities for visitors and staff to express gratitude while offering spiritual blessings for their departed animal companions' eternal journey. The Muzha Zhongshun Temple (木柵忠順廟), a local Taoist temple, conducted sacred rituals within the zoo grounds, delivering traditional spiritual support and ceremonial blessings for the honored animals. ◼