Human-Elephant Conflict

A Clash of Worlds: Unraveling Sri Lanka's Human-Elephant Conflict

The serenity of Sri Lanka's rural landscape is often shattered by a primal, heartbreaking conflict. In a small village, the deep, guttural rumble of an elephant approaching sends a wave of fear through the community. This isn't a scene from a documentary; it's a nightly reality for thousands of families living on the edge of the wild. Every year, this clash between man and beast claims the lives of over 80 elephants and around 30 humans, a grim statistic that places Sri Lanka at the epicenter of the global human-elephant conflict (HEC). The economic toll is equally devastating, with farmers losing millions of rupees in crops, their life's work disappearing in a single night.

This crisis isn't a new phenomenon, but it has escalated to unprecedented levels. It's a complex web of environmental, social, and economic factors, but by untangling the root causes, we can begin to weave a new narrative—one of coexistence rather than conflict. This comprehensive look will explore not just the "why," but also the "how" and "who" behind the solution, outlining both immediate fixes and long-term, sustainable strategies for a shared future.

The Root Causes: Why Giants Leave the Wild

The motivations behind an elephant's journey into a village are not driven by a desire for confrontation. They are born of instinct and desperation, a direct consequence of a world that is rapidly changing around them.

1. Loss and Fragmentation of Habitat

This is the single most significant factor driving the conflict. For centuries, elephants roamed freely across vast, interconnected forests. In the last hundred years, however, Sri Lanka has witnessed the destruction of over 80% of these ancient habitats. Forests are cleared to make way for large-scale agricultural projects like palm oil and tea plantations, new roads, and ever-expanding settlements.

More insidious than outright deforestation is the fragmentation of these remaining habitats. Elephants rely on ancient, instinctive pathways known as "elephant corridors" to migrate between different foraging areas, find water sources, and seek mates. When a new highway, a railway line, or a human settlement cuts across one of these vital corridors, it acts as an impenetrable barrier. With their traditional routes blocked, elephants are forced to find new paths, and these new paths inevitably lead them into human territories, where they come into direct contact with people and their property.

2. The Allure of an Easy Meal

In a world of increasing scarcity, the temptation of cultivated crops becomes irresistible. The effects of climate change, including longer dry seasons and more unpredictable rainfall, are decimating the natural vegetation elephants rely on for food and water. Faced with a dwindling food supply in the wild, the scent of a farmer’s field—filled with calorie-dense, easily accessible crops like rice, corn, bananas, and sugarcane—is a powerful siren call. A single elephant can consume up to 150 kg of food and 100 liters of water a day. When natural sources are scarce, a farmer's well and a lush rice paddy become a matter of survival, not choice.

3. Poor Land-Use Planning and Governance

The conflict is a direct reflection of a failure in land-use planning. Villages and farms are often established without considering their proximity to elephant habitats. Existing buffer zones are poorly managed or non-existent, and encroachment on protected areas is rampant. This is compounded by a lack of enforcement of existing environmental laws. Without a clear and respected line between human and animal territory, elephants have no choice but to cross into human-dominated areas. This creates a perpetual cycle of encroachment and conflict.

4. Retaliation Breeds Aggression

The conflict is not a one-sided affair. Human attempts to deter elephants can often have the opposite effect, escalating tensions and making the animals more aggressive and dangerous over time. Poorly maintained electric fences, which may deliver a painful but non-lethal shock, can infuriate an elephant rather than deter it, teaching it to associate humans with pain. Similarly, the use of firecrackers, slingshots, and even gunshots to scare elephants away might work in the short term, but it teaches them to perceive humans as a threat. Over time, these elephants may become more hostile and unpredictable, transforming from foraging animals into aggressive, defensive creatures. The tragic reality is that many of the most dangerous "rogue" elephants are a direct result of this learned behavior, born from repeated negative encounters with humans.

A Path to Coexistence: Solutions for a Shared Future

Solving the HEC requires a multi-faceted approach, combining immediate, practical measures to protect lives and property with long-term, visionary strategies that address the root causes.

Long-Term Fixes

Protecting and Restoring Elephant Habitats:

 The most crucial long-term strategy is to restore and reconnect elephant habitats. This involves large-scale reforestation of degraded lands, focusing on native plant species that provide the natural forage elephants need. More importantly, it requires securing and protecting wildlife corridors to ensure elephants can migrate safely between forest patches. This strategy not only benefits elephants but also supports biodiversity and ecosystem health across the country.

Smarter Farming Practices:

Farmers can significantly reduce crop raiding by adopting "elephant-proof" farming techniques. This includes planting crops that elephants find unappealing, such as chili, lemongrass, citronella, or garlic, along the perimeter of their fields. The strong scent and taste of these plants act as a natural deterrent. Additionally, community-based farming where large fields are collectively protected and guarded is far more effective than individual farmers trying to protect small, scattered plots.

Water and Food Management:

To reduce the elephants' need to enter villages for resources, we can proactively manage resources within their habitats. This includes building and maintaining artificial waterholes and reservoirs inside forests, particularly in areas susceptible to drought. Providing mineral-rich "salt licks" and planting preferred forage species can also help ensure elephants' nutritional needs are met in the wild, reducing their motivation to seek out food in human settlements.

Short-Term Fixes

Effective Electric Fencing:

While not a perfect solution, well-designed and maintained electric fences are a vital tool for immediate protection. These must be solar-powered for reliability and community-managed to ensure they are functional year-round. Modern designs incorporate specific wire heights and configurations that are proven to be more effective at deterring elephants.

Early Warning Systems:

Technology can be a powerful ally. Attaching GPS collars to key elephants allows wildlife officials and village watch groups to track their movements in real-time, providing early warnings and allowing for preventative action. Community-based mobile apps and SMS systems can also be used for farmers to report sightings, creating a network of communication that warns others of an elephant’s presence in the area.

Safe Deterrents:

Non-lethal and innovative deterrents offer a promising alternative to violent retaliation. Beehive fences, for instance, use an elephant's natural fear of bees to create a protective barrier. A series of beehives linked by a wire can effectively protect a large area. The bees' buzzing and potential stings are a powerful deterrent, and the honey produced can provide farmers with an alternative income source. Other non-lethal methods include the use of bright, motion-activated floodlights and "chili bombs" — non-toxic smoke devices that release a powerful chili scent that elephants dislike.

A Shared Responsibility: The Path Forward

Finding a lasting solution to the HEC is a shared responsibility that requires a concerted effort from the government, conservation organizations, and local communities.

Government Actions:

The government must take a leading role by enacting and strictly enforcing land-use laws that prevent development in critical elephant corridors. It must also establish a swift and transparent compensation system for crop damage and loss of life to reduce the economic hardship on farmers and discourage retaliatory acts. Increased investment in the Department of Wildlife Conservation and greater resources for forest rangers are also crucial for effective patrols and monitoring.

Community Actions:

Local communities are on the front lines and must be empowered to be part of the solution. Establishing trained village watch groups to monitor elephant movements and developing community-based early warning systems can save lives. Education programs that teach rural communities about elephant behavior and the importance of conservation can foster a culture of coexistence. These programs can shift the narrative from one of fear and conflict to one of respect and understanding.

Conclusion: Coexistence is Possible

The human-elephant conflict is a heartbreaking reminder of the challenges we face as our world changes and human needs expand. But it is not a hopeless situation. By combining short-term, practical solutions like effective fences and warning systems with long-term, visionary strategies like habitat restoration and sustainable land-use planning, a future of coexistence is not just a dream—it is an achievable reality.

The elephants of Sri Lanka are not just wild animals; they are a vital part of the nation's heritage and a keystone species for its ecosystems. Protecting their homes is not just a matter of conservation; it is an act of self-preservation. When we protect their world, we protect our own. The choice is ours: to continue a destructive cycle of conflict, or to forge a new path where man and giant can share the land in peace.

Nakolagane’s Forests

The Destruction of Nakolagane’s Forests and Wetlands: 

An Environmental and Humanitarian Crisis

Introduction  

The Nakolagane forest and wetlands in Sri Lanka’s Kurunegala District are under severe threat due to illegal deforestation and land clearing. Despite warnings from environmental activists like Sajeewa Chamikara in 2021, the destruction has continued unchecked. A powerful Buddhist monk, Walathwewa Rahula Thero, along with business allies, has been systematically clearing protected lands for commercial agriculture, disregarding environmental laws and endangering wildlife. The consequences—escalating human-elephant conflict, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss—demand urgent intervention.  

This article examines:  

1. The extent of deforestation and illegal land grabs

2. The ecological and social consequences

3. The failure of authorities to enforce laws

4. Solutions to prevent further damage

1. The Scale of Deforestation and Illegal Land Leasing 

Unlawful Clearing of Protected Land 

- Nakolagane’s forests are part of a 5,000-acre ecosystem that includes wetlands, reservoirs, and wildlife habitats.  

- Over 50 acres have already been destroyed, with permits illegally issued for another 700 acres.  

- The land belongs to **Nakolagane Rajamaha Vihara, a Buddhist temple, but its chief monk has leased it to businessmen without government approval.  

Violations of Environmental Laws

- National Environmental Act (1980) – Requires environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for clearing over 1 hectare (2.47 acres). None were conducted.  

-North-Western Provincial Environmental Statute (1990) – Prohibits clearing near reservoirs. Yet, forests around Palukadawala Lake have been bulldozed.  

- Archaeology Ordinance (1940) – The area contains ancient temple ruins, but no heritage assessments were done before clearing.  

Who is Responsible?  

- Walathwewa Rahula Thero (Chief Monk) – Illegally leased temple land.  

- Local Politicians – Allegedly protecting the monk and businessmen.  

- Government Inaction – Despite complaints, no legal action has been taken.  

2. Ecological and Social Consequences

A. Escalating Human-Elephant Conflict

- Nakolagane is a key elephant corridor, home to 1,189 elephants (20% of Sri Lanka’s total).  

- Deforestation forces elephants into villages, leading to:  

  - Increased attacks – Elephants raid farms for food, resulting in deaths on both sides (e.g., the killing of Bathiya the elephant).  

  - Crop destruction – Farmers lose livelihoods, deepening poverty.  

B. Water Scarcity Threatens Agriculture  

- The forests feed 25+ lakes including:  

  - Palukadawala Lake (main water source)  

  - Manakkulamayagama Lake  

  - Hunugallewa Lake  

- Deforestation reduces water retention, leading to:  

  - Drying reservoirs – Farmers face irrigation shortages.  

  - Lower groundwater levels – Drinking wells are at risk.  

C. Biodiversity Loss 

- A 2014 study recorded 118 species in Nakolagane, including:  

  - Endemic birds (4 species)  

  - Threatened reptiles  

  - Elephants, leopards, and other mammals  

- Habitat destruction could lead to local extinctions.  

3. Government and Institutional Failures 

A. Authorities Ignoring the Crisis 

- Central Environmental Authority (CEA) – Failed to halt illegal clearing.  

- Forest Department – Did not enforce protections.  

- Archaeology Department– Ignored damage to heritage sites.  

B. Legal Violations with No Consequences

- Under the National Environmental Act, violators face:  

  - Fines up to LKR 15,000(~$50)  

  - 2 years in prison  

- Yet, no arrests or prosecutions have occurred.  

C. Political Interference  

- Local politicians allegedly protect the monk and businesses, preventing legal action.  

4. Solutions: How to Save Nakolagane

A. Immediate Actions Needed 

1. Halt All Illegal Clearing – Enforce stop orders on deforestation.  

2. Investigate and Prosecute – Hold the monk and businessmen accountable.  

3. Restore Damaged Land – Replant trees and protect water sources.  

B. Long-Term Protection  

- Declare Nakolagane a "Forest-Elephant Management Reserve" – Legal protection under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance.  

- Strengthen Monitoring – Use drones and satellite tracking to prevent illegal logging.  

- Community Involvement – Train locals in conservation and conflict mitigation.  

C. Policy Reforms  

- Stricter EIA Enforcement – No clearing without assessments.  

- ransparent Land Leasing– Prevent temple lands from being misused.  

Conclusion: A Race Against Time

Nakolagane’s destruction is not just an environmental issue—it’s a humanitarian crisis. Without urgent action:  

- Elephants will continue dying in clashes with humans.  

- Farmers will lose water and crops, worsening rural poverty.  

- Unique wildlife will vanish forever.  

The government must act now before Nakolagane becomes another tragic example of unchecked greed and environmental neglect.  

Who are Gajabahu and Agbo

Who are Gajabahu and Agbo

Let's properly identify these two amazing elephants who even deceive experienced wildlife photographers with their close resemblance.

"Agbo" and "Gajabahu" are so alike that it's difficult to distinguish between the two. Their physical features are almost identical, and if you saw them together, you'd think they were elephant brothers born to the same mother.

However, their habitats and roaming areas are different. Let's explore a little about these two."

Tusker "Agbo" T- 096

When comparing Agbo and Gajabahu, the features that distinguish Agbo are: a broader forehead where the tusks diverge, a slight hump on his back, numerous bullet-like marks on his body, a spread-out dewlap and ear flaps, and a relatively flat "moolliy" (a specific marking on the forehead that resembles the number 3).

Before falling ill, Agbo's roaming area was mainly in the Thirappane, Mahakanadarawa, and Horowpatana regions. He was a powerful and very handsome tusker, though he could also be quite aggressive. Now, his range is limited to the Thirappane area.

ID - T232 

Name - Gajabahu 

First Recorded Year 2021 (Padaviya/Wahalkada/Kabithigollewa) 

First recorded and named by Priyanjana Dilmith Wild Photography

Gajabahu can be distinguished from Agbo by his relatively slender forehead compared to the broader forehead where Agbo's tusks diverge. Gajabahu is slightly taller and longer than Agbo. His ear flaps and dewlap have a clear, uniform pattern. Unlike Agbo, Gajabahu doesn't have a hump on his back but a longer spine. His skin is slightly darker than Agbo's. Additionally, Gajabahu doesn't have the bullet-like marks found on Agbo's body and exudes a strong, sturdy demeanor when walking. Gajabahu's roaming area is around the forests of Padaviya, Wahalkada, and Kabithigollewa.

You've outlined some striking similarities between Agbo and Gajabahu

• 90% similarity: This suggests a very high degree of resemblance between the two elephants.
• Tusks: The position, size, and shape of their tusks are nearly identical.
• Ears: The way their ears are folded is quite similar.
• Forehead: The length of their foreheads and the position of their temples are almost the same.
• Body: Their overall height and weight are very similar.

Tusker Chandi

Three months have passed since our dear Chandi left us.

On the 5th of July, exactly three months ago today, Chandi, the legendary elephant of Galgamuwa, passed away after being injured in a battle with another elephant. On that day, another bitter day in our lives, Chandi was found dead in his usual watering hole.

It is strongly suspected that a wild elephant, possibly a tusker, had attacked him. The elephant’s sharp tusks had pierced Chandi’s heart, neck, kidneys, and many other parts of his body. In the end, he passed away lying in the very watering hole he loved most and spent most of his life in.

Chandi, you were a legend. A great hero who fought for his homeland. Even after being captured twice and taken to Horowpatana prison, you returned to Galgamuwa. You never abandoned your homeland and breathed your last breath in your homeland. You were a true hero of Galgamuwa. We will always remember what we did for you, how we fought to protect you. Although we protected you from humans, we couldn’t overcome nature. You passed away with dignity, subject to the laws of the wild.

Dear Chandi, farewell, my friend

Tusker Miyan Kumara

Miyan Kumara was a male Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) who gained significant recognition in Sri Lanka for his role in various religious ceremonies and public events. He was particularly associated with the Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya temple in Colombo.

Early Life and Relocation

• Birth and Early Years: Born in captivity in 1971, Miyan Kumara spent his early years in Myanmar.
• Relocation to Sri Lanka: In the early 2000s, he was relocated to Sri Lanka and became a part of the temple's elephant herd.

Notable Events and Controversies

• Religious Ceremonies: Miyan Kumara was a prominent figure in numerous religious ceremonies, including the annual Bellanwila Esala Perahera. His presence added a sense of grandeur and tradition to these events.
• Public Appearances: He also participated in various public events, such as parades and festivals.
• Health Concerns and Controversies: Despite his popularity, Miyan Kumara faced health challenges due to his captivity and the demanding nature of his role. His treatment and living conditions were subject to public scrutiny and debate.

Tragic Incident and Legacy

• Mahout's Death: In 2018, a tragic incident occurred when Miyan Kumara attacked his mahout (elephant handler), resulting in the mahout's death. This incident sparked further discussions about elephant welfare and the risks associated with captive elephants.
• Legacy: Miyan Kumara's legacy is complex. While he was undoubtedly a beloved figure in Sri Lanka, his life also highlighted the challenges faced by captive elephants and the need for improved welfare standards.

Additional Information:

• Captivity: Miyan Kumara spent most of his life in captivity, which raised concerns about his well-being and the ethical implications of keeping elephants in such environments.
• Conservation Efforts: His story has contributed to a growing awareness of the importance of elephant conservation in Sri Lanka. Efforts are being made to protect wild elephant populations and improve the conditions of captive elephants.

A Life in the City

Miyan Kumara's life was far from ordinary. He spent his days parading through the streets, giving rides to tourists, and performing in various events. His gentle nature and intelligence made him a popular attraction, and he became a familiar sight to many Sri Lankans.

Despite his fame and popularity, Miyan Kumara's life was not without its challenges. The urban environment was not ideal for an elephant, and he faced health issues related to stress and confinement. However, thanks to the efforts of animal welfare organizations and concerned individuals, he received the necessary care and attention.

Controversy and Conservation

Miyan Kumara's life was also marked by controversy. Many animal rights activists raised concerns about his well-being and argued that elephants should not be kept in captivity. Protests and campaigns were launched to demand his release and relocation to a more suitable habitat.

In response to the growing public pressure, the Sri Lankan government took steps to improve Miyan Kumara's living conditions. He was eventually moved to a wildlife sanctuary, where he could enjoy more natural surroundings and freedom. However, his health continued to deteriorate, and he passed away peacefully in 2019.

A Lasting Legacy

Miyan Kumara's legacy lives on in the hearts of many Sri Lankans. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the need to protect these magnificent creatures. His passing also sparked a renewed focus on elephant conservation efforts in Sri Lanka.

Today, the country is working to improve the welfare of its captive elephant population and promote responsible tourism practices. Miyan Kumara's memory continues to inspire and motivate those who are committed to protecting these gentle giants.

Happy World Children's Day to all the babies!

 

Today is a day dedicated to all of us. "The best things for children." Therefore, adults dedicate this day to children, for their happiness. Like human mothers and fathers, animal mothers and fathers also love, care, compassion, and affection for their young ones, putting their own lives second.

We love animal babies as much as our own babies. We let them live their childhood freely and happily, playing without knowing six or four. If we can't do that, let's at least let them live their lives in peace.

We will always be there for them...

Happy World Children's Day to all the babies!

Manika

 

Manika: A Beloved Elephant

Manika, a female elephant once associated with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), is now a cherished resident of the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka. Known for her affectionate nature, she is one of the orphanage's most beloved inhabitants.

Prior to her arrival at Pinnawela, Manika spent time at the Dehiwala National Zoological Park and the 514 Army Camp in Jaffna. During her time in the army camp, she was found in a children's park that had been under the control of the LTTE.

Manika's journey to Pinnawela was marked by resilience and adaptability. Despite her challenging past, she has thrived in her new environment. Her playful nature and strong bond with humans have made her a favorite among visitors and staff alike.

While Manika has resisted breeding efforts due to her unique physical characteristics, her presence at Pinnawela is invaluable. She serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and the protection of these majestic creatures.