The award-winning documentary film “A Life Among Elephants,” which chronicles the journey of Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton, the world’s foremost elephant scientist, will be shown at 7 p.m. Monday, May 5, at the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara.

Douglas-Hamilton’s groundbreaking research and conservation efforts have shaped humans’ understanding of elephants for more than six decades.

Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton holds a ball up to the trunk of an elephant. (Courtesy photo)
Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton has done extensive research on the decline of the elephant population. (Courtesy photo)

The film, presented by Earl Minnis and John Kay, celebrates Douglas-Hamilton’s extraordinary contributions to elephant conservation, and highlights the ongoing importance of protecting elephants for future generations.

Douglas-Hamilton’s story begins in 1965 at Tanzania’s Lake Manyara, where he pioneered the study of wild African elephants, discovering their complex social structures and distinct personalities.

Alongside his wife Oria and daughters Saba and Dudu, Douglas-Hamilton formed deep connections with elephant families, including the memorable matriarch Boadicea and the gentle mother Virgo.

When a devastating poaching crisis emerged in the 1970s, Douglas-Hamilton transformed from researcher to defender.

His pioneering documentation of Africa’s elephant population decline – which fell by half between 1979 and 1989 – was instrumental in securing the 1989 global ivory trade ban.

When poaching resurged with an estimated 100,000 elephants killed from 2010-2012, he again led the charge, using scientific data to advocate for stronger protections, culminating in China’s 2018 ivory trade ban.

As founder of Save the Elephants in 1993, Douglas-Hamilton’s legacy continues through a new generation of researchers dedicated to protecting Africa’s most iconic species.

The film screening will be followed by a conversation with Save The Elephants CEO Frank Pope, Saba Douglas-Hamilton (ambassador and special projects), and David Daballen (director of field operations).

Tickets for A Life Among Elephants are on sale at Lobero.org and at the Lobero Box Office 805-963-0761.

Premium seating tickets are $50 and include preferred seating and an exclusive post show reception hosted by Kay in the Lobero Courtyard, with complimentary drinks and light bites, beginning after the film).

Section A tickets are $20, and free for students with valid ID. Reserved seating.

Ticket prices include a per ticket Lobero Facility Fee; other fees may also apply.