The Forests and Wildlife Department on Thursday conducted a State-wide census to enumerate the State’s captive elephant population. Over 520 elephants were counted, while the exercise to compile information extended to the late hours of the day. The final figures were yet to be ascertained.
The survey was necessitated by an order issued by the Supreme Court that directed Chief Wildlife Wardens to identify elephants in captivity and to ascertain whether their owners possessed ownership certificates. The order permitted granting provisional ownership certificates in cases where the owner did not have the needed document.
According to available information, Thrissur recorded the highest number of elephants (145) and Kannur the lowest (three). Forty-eight elephants were registered in Thiruvananthapuram. Kasaragod has no elephants.
Details pertaining to captive elephants, their owners and mahouts were collected during the drive. Other details, including microchip certificate and DNA profiles, were also recorded. Measurements of elephants, including height; length of the body, trunk, tail and tusks; girth of tusks; and number of nails were collected by the survey team which comprised forest officials, veterinarians and volunteers.
While the State-level drive was coordinated by the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Biodiversity Cell), the efforts in each district were supervised by the Assistant Conservator of Forests (Social Forestry). The number of squads was fixed in proportion to the estimated elephant population in the districts.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force P.K. Kesavan said the department was well within the schedule and will submit the report before the Supreme Court within December 31 as per the directive.
