44 Wild Elephants Shot Dead in 2025 in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s Department of Wildlife Conservation has revealed alarming statistics on elephant deaths for the year, with 44 elephants reportedly shot and killed so far. 

The figure reflects a continuing trend of human-elephant conflict and illegal activity, as 84 elephants were similarly killed by gunfire in 2024.

According to Wildlife Director General Ranjan Marasinghe, a total of 245 elephants have died this year due to various causes. Among them, 38 were electrocuted, while 13 were fatally struck by trains.

The cumulative elephant death toll for 2024 stood at 388.

In response, the Ministry of Environment has announced a special action plan aimed at protecting Sri Lanka’s wild elephant population, including iconic individuals such as the famed Kavantissa elephant. 

Environment Minister Dr. Dhammika Pattabendi stated that wildlife officers have been deployed to monitor Kavantissa, who is currently roaming near the Galgamuwa area.