NEW YORK: Michael Jackson is apparently planning to take to the stage astride an elephant when he descends on the O2 later this year.

The King of Pop, 50, also wants a panther, snakes, tropical birds and three monkeys for a set that will have a jungle, circus and weather theme, according to The Sun.

Michael will take up 50-gig residency at the arena in the summer and a source said: "He hopes to make it the most spectacular gig ever."