YOUNG WILD ELEPHANTS TO BE CAPTURED FOR A LIFE IN CAPTIVITY?

 Ask the Sri Lankan authorities not to undertake programme of capture and training for religious festivals.

On 8th August 2011, Sri Lankan Wildlife Minister, Mr S.M. Chandrasena told a press conference that during the upcoming survey of wild elephants, strong young calves would be identified for capture, to be "donated" to temples for use in festivals. "Sometime back there were more than 300 tamed elephants in the country” he said, “and the number has now dwindled to around 150 of which only a few are tuskers suitable forpageants."

Following this announcement at least 30 local conservation organisations have condemned the remarks. Conservationist Ajantha Palihawadana said such captures would interfere with nature by removing some of the best genetic stock from the elephant population, especially if elephants with tusks were being specifically selected as such individuals are relatively rare. Many are also very worried about the welfare of the elephants subjected to the trauma of capture and training, and spending the rest of their lives in captivity.

 To be continued....http://www.bornfree.org.uk/campaigns/elephants/campaign-action/sri-lanka-elephants/captive-elelphant-welfare/wild-elephant-capture/